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Image Via Ford.com The future of personal vehicles is electrified, and Ford's lineup is heeding the call for the switch. The world of hybrid and electric vehicles has drastically changed for the better over the past few years, in large part thanks to Ford. Here are a few of Ford's top models that show there's an electrified vehicle for every lifestyle. more Fusion The sedan and hatchback classes were the first to introduce us to the world of popular hybrid vehicles. Ford's answer to this is the Fusion hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Ford stopped producing all of its sedans for the 2020 model year, except for the Mustang and the Fusion. The Fusion remains in the company's lineup to give city-bound and style-oriented drivers a powerful option when they're shopping for their next hybrid. The 2020 Fusion Hybrid SE achieves an estimated 43 mpg in the city and 41 on the highway. If you want to step up your hybrid game, opt for the 2020 Fusion Plug-In Hybrid Titanium, which adds a plethora of luxury features while raising the model's fuel efficiency to 109 mpg in the city and 97 on the highway. Explorer Need more space in your electrified vehicle to tackle your life's adventures? Check out the 2020 Ford Explorer. This year's model offers a hybrid powertrain that reaches a range of 450 miles, offers an intelligent four-wheel-drive system, and can tow up to 5,000 pounds. This midsize SUV has the perfect balance of space, capability, and efficiency that broadens your options when you're thinking of switching to an electrified vehicle. Escape The 2020 Ford Escape crossover SUV offers a wide range of electrified options that let you pick the level of luxury and power that's perfect for your life. This year's Escape trim levels are the S, SE, SE Sport, SEL, and Titanium. The SE Sport and Titanium are available with conventional hybrid systems and the SE, SEL, and Titanium are available with plug-in hybrid systems. If you want the most luxurious and efficient Escape, the Titanium Plug-In Hybrid is the way to go. It's equipped with leather-trimmed bucket seats, plenty of driver-assist technologies, heated fronts seats and steering wheel, and more. The Escape's wide range of options let you pick and choose the right balance between features and price tag. Mustang Mach-E We expect the 2021 Mustang Mach-E to change how we think about the electric vehicle world forever. This brand-new Ford model shows us that you no longer have to sacrifice an exciting driving experience for eco-friendly efficiency. This is an all-electric subcompact SUV that can travel an estimated 300 miles on a full charge. It comes standard with an electric all-wheel-drive system and can hit the zero to 60 mark in the mid-3-second range. When you're ready to discover the new Ford model that's perfect for your lifestyle, come visit our team of experts at Spikes Ford in Mission, Texas. Whether you're looking to make the switch to an electrified vehicle or you want to stick with your favorite model, there's a Ford here with your name on it.

Image Via Pexels.com Mission, Texas, is right on the Rio Grande, along the U.S.-Mexican border. While it's easy to find authentic Mexican cuisine here, some restaurants are better than others. Fortunately, you can't go wrong when you dine at one of these three establishments in the Mission, Texas, area serving great Mexican fare. more YaYa's Cocina Mexicana At YaYa's Cocina Mexicana on East Griffin Parkway, you'll find some of the most authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine in town. The breakfast menu is a delicious collection of all your favorites. Order the Chilaquiles Verde, a zesty dish of crispy corn tortillas topped with chicken, tomatillo salsa, sour cream, and onions. Or try the Nopales con Huevo, a dish of scrambled eggs and cactus served with papa a la Mexicana, a delicious potato hash. Authentic lunch plates like the Chicharron en Salsa Verde are sure to please. This pork belly dish is cooked in tomatillo salsa and served with Mexican rice, refried beans, lettuce, tomato, and warm flour tortillas. The Tostadas de Desebrada dish includes three crispy corn tortillas topped with refried beans, shredded beef, tomato sauce, lettuce, tomato, queso fresco, sour cream, and sliced avocado. La Casa de la Abuela Take a short drive down State Highway 83 to McAllen, Texas, to grab a meal at La Casa de la Abuela, which serves authentic Mexican just like grandma makes it. This new restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. Breakfast items include the Concha de la Abuela, a vanilla sweetbread stuffed with manchego cheese and marmalade and drizzled with pastry cream. You'll also find molletes, classic open-faced sandwiches topped with refried beans, chorizo, cheese, bacon, and eggs. The lunch menu offers more of the same authentic flavor. Order one of five enchilada dishes, such as the Entomatadas with your choice of cheese or Chicken Enchiladas topped with tomato sauce and served with rice, beans, avocado, sour cream, and queso fresco. Nine quesadillas on the menu will satisfy even the most discriminating palates. Choose from the Chicharron with Green Salsa, Chicken Tinga, and Chorizo for that traditional Mexican flavor. Or try one of the specialty dishes, such as the Tampiquena, a flavorful grilled filet served with a mole enchilada, a green enchilada, poblano slices, beans, rice, and guacamole. 100% Antojitos Mexicanos From the moment you walk into Antojitos Mexicanos on East Expressway 83 in Mission, you'll be greeted with the sights and smells of Mexico. The restaurant's menu is loaded with authentic dishes such as Flautas, those tasty taquitos filled with shredded beef or chicken and served with refried beans, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. Antojitos also serves Tostadas, Sopes, and Sincronizada, a flour tortilla stuffed with shredded beef, chicken, or cheese and grilled to perfection. Choose from one of three types of taco platters: regular beef tacos, the Alambre plate with zesty cibola, or the Trompe tacos. Authentic Mexican fare makes for some of the most flavorful meals in the world. The next time you're craving great Mexican food in Mission, Texas, visit one of these three restaurants.

Image Via Pexels.com Humans have always had a fascination with nature. Whether you enjoy open grassland, thick forests, or meandering waterways, the connection you make is invigorating and rejuvenating. People use nature to clear their minds and tap into their creative sides. Check out one of these three fascinating spots near Mission, Texas, the next time you want to be closer to nature. more Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park Part of the World Birding Center, the Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is considered one of the finest birding destinations in the country. More than 360 species of birds have been recorded in the park. Native species such as the great kiskadee, Altamira oriole, and plain chachalaca make their homes here. You can also see a variety of migratory birds, including the Swainson and the broad-winged hawk. Climb the Hawk Observation Tower for a fantastic view of the birds and parklands. Park officials are also working tirelessly to preserve the native flora, including trees like the Montezuma bald cypress, sabal palm, and Texas wild olive. More than 7 miles of trails span the grounds. You can walk or bike along the 3.5-mile park road or hike one of the many nature trails. The 1.8-mile Rio Grande Trail is wheelchair-accessible, and bikes are not allowed on this trail. Rangers host a variety of organized activities throughout the summer. Sign up for a ranger-guided tour, or take part in a ranger skills class and learn to fish or kayak. The park even has a Junior Ranger program. Your little ones can borrow a Junior Ranger pack with binoculars, tools, and a field guide to help them explore. National Butterfly Center The North American Butterfly Association founded the National Butterfly Center over 10 years ago, and today it's the largest native plant botanical garden in America. It encompasses more than 100 acres of pristine land, cultivated to inspire guests and propagate native species within. Upward of 200 species of butterflies call the National Butterfly Center home. The bordering Lower Rio Grande Valley is home to some 300 species, so you never know what you might see when you visit. The center has the greatest volume of wild, free-flying butterflies in the United States. The National Butterfly Center showcases animal and plant life in wild and cultivated habitats. The gardens are growing and evolving constantly, and the many trails offer a peaceful retreat. The center also hosts educational programs designed for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Bannworth Park Bannworth Park is located on Shary Road and Village Drive and includes more than 18 acres of mixed-use parkland. It's a wonderful urban park offering a variety of outdoor activities as a retreat from the bustle of your daily life. It features a jogging trail, a pond with a pier, a playground, picnic tables, a pavilion available to rent, and fields for football, soccer, baseball, and softball. Mission, Texas, is home to several fascinating nature spots. The next time you feel like getting closer to nature, stop by one of these three parks.

Image Via Ford.com Ford pickups have long set the standard for power, performance, and style. While choosing the right pickup for your needs might seem challenging, it doesn't have to be. Use this comparison of the Ford pickup line to find the perfect truck. more Ford Ranger The Ford Ranger is a midsize pickup that performs admirably on and off the road. It comes in three trim levels: the XL, XLT, and Lariat. You can also add an appearance package to make your Ranger uniquely yours. The FX2 package offers 18-inch OWL tires, signature badging, and an off-road suspension system to keep you in control. An FX4 Off-Road package prepares your Ranger for any challenge with a Terrain Management System. This technology dials in your suspension, braking, and throttle to match the road. Choose Normal mode for your every day driving. Opt for Snow/Grass/Gravel for when the conditions get soft and slippery. Mud/Ruts mode is perfect for those off-road adventures. Sand mode allows you to hit that off-the-beaten-path beach. Your Ranger comes with Ford's 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine. When paired with the 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, this powertrain gets 270 horsepower and a class-leading 310 pound-feet of torque. Ford F-150 The F-150 blends work and play perfectly. This full-size pickup is ready to haul your work trailer to the job site or your bass boat to your favorite fishing hole. The F-150 comes in seven trim levels, so there's a model for every lifestyle. Choose from the standard XL, XLT, and Lariat trims, or opt for a signature trim such as the King Ranch, Limited, Platinum, or Raptor. Six engines power the F-150 lineup, beginning with the 3.3-liter Ti-VCT V-6 that delivers 290 horsepower and 265 pound-feet of torque. The legendary 5.0-liter V-8 engine puts out an impressive 395 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. A 2.7-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine gives you 325 horsepower and 400 pound-feet of torque. Or you can up the power scale with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine that gets 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. If you're looking for the perfect blend of economy and power, choose the 3.0-liter Power Stroke turbo diesel engine that comes in at 250 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. The high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine comes standard on the Limited and Raptor trims. This monster churns out 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Ford Super Duty If it's all about work, then the Super Duty series of F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks is the most capable heavy-duty lineup out there. Depending on the engine, these beasts generate up to 475 horsepower and 1,050 pound-feet of torque. The Super Duty boasts a best-in-class conventional tow rating of 21,000 pounds or up to 24,200 pounds with the diesel option. Gooseneck and advanced towing packages are available to make the job and drive easier. You can select between five drive modes based on road conditions and add the Tremor Package if you plan to take this model off-road. Ford has a pickup truck to fit any driver's needs. Come test-drive one today to see which series suits your lifestyle best.

Image via Pexels.com The Ford Escape is a small, stylish SUV that is easy to drive and comes packed with the latest technology and safety equipment. The 2020 model received a complete update, with changes that include an all-new platform that is longer, lower, and wider than before. Ford also brought back the hybrid version and gave it more power and better acceleration. Here is a look at the 2020 Ford Escape. more Stylish and Sleek Exterior The Escape comes in five different trim levels. The S starts with 17-inch steel wheels, while the SE adds alloy wheels and heated side door mirrors. Check out the SE Sport Hybrid for 19-inch alloy wheels with ebony-painted pockets, body-color door handles, LED lighting, and the option for black roof rails. A step up to the SEL gets you fog lights, a hands-free liftgate, and dual exhaust. The top-level Titanium has 19-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, and acoustic glass for the front windshield. Powerful and Efficient Engine Performance The Escape will offer four different powertrains. The base is a 1.5-liter three-cylinder EcoBoost turbo gas engine with 180 horsepower. This is the standard engine for the S, SE, and SEL. A 2.0-liter four-cylinder EcoBoost with 250 horsepower is an available option for the SEL and the Titanium, and the SE Sport Hybrid and the Titanium both come standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and hybrid electric powertrain that generates 198 horsepower. A plug-in version of the hybrid model will become available later in the model year. Both of the gas engines have plenty of power for daily driving and will accelerate quickly from a stop, but the turbo four-cylinder feels more powerful than the base engine. The base three-cylinder is more fuel-efficient than most other SUVs in this class, and no matter what engine you choose, the Escape a fun SUV to drive. Comfortable Interior The Escape has room for five people with comfortable seats in both rows. For a small crossover, the Escape has a surprising amount of interior space with plenty of headroom even for taller rear-seat passengers. The base model has cloth-trimmed seats and a split-folding second-row seat. The SE adds heated front seats, the SEL has simulated leather upholstery, and the Titanium adds leather trim. The technology features start with a 4.3-inch touch screen, the SYNC infotainment system, voice recognition, 4G LTE Wi-Fi, and two smart charging USB ports. SYNC3 with Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, WAZE, and Android Auto comes in the SE and above. Safety The Family Can Count On All the 2020 Escape models have Fords Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, a rearview camera, and pedestrian detection. It also comes with post-collision braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-path monitoring. The Titanium models have Ford CoPilot360 Assist, which adds extra safety features such as a lane-centering for the adaptive cruise control, and it comes with front and rear parking sensors with audible indicators. The Titanium also has Active Park Assist 2.0. This system will automatically park the Escape without help from the driver.

Image Via Pexels.com When you're looking for something fun to do with the kids, head over to the Mission, Texas, area. There are plenty of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Try these five indoor activities when it's rainy or the Texas heat is too much. Please take proper precautions if and when visiting any of these locations. more Incredibowl Along with bowling, Incredibowl has many other family-friendly activities to choose from. Indoor activities include an arcade and bumper cars. If you decide to go outside, the kids can also enjoy the batting cages or the adventure park. When it's time to eat, head over to the restaurant to grab a bite. Parents tend to enjoy its selection of salads, jumbo chicken wings, sandwiches, pizza, and burgers. When the kids are hungry, they can dig into corn dogs, cheese sticks, chicken tenders, or burritos. Nuevo Santander Gallery Older kids will appreciate all of the art and artifacts at the Nuevo Santander Gallery. This museum features all kinds of Old West and Mexican collectibles, such as old guns, military uniforms, furniture, and religious pieces. Many of the original paintings and sculptures here are presented in a historical setting to create an authentic experience. Look at featured artists' work throughout the museum, such as Andres Tamez, Bob Franklin, Edith Maskey, Cliff Cavin, and Jesus Carranza. Jump Up for Fun If you have a group of energetic children, bring the to Jump Up for Fun to tire them out. This inflatable indoor park features bounce houses, mazes, and tons of games. Any Disney fan is sure to love the Frozen-themed inflatable that features Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and Sven, or the kids can pretend to be old-time pirates in the pirate ship inflatable. Imagination is welcome when you are here. Along with accommodating older children, Jump Up for Fun is a great place to bring toddlers since there's a special Back Yard Toddler inflatable just for them. Cinemark Tinseltown USA and XD When you're looking for a relaxing family outing, see what's playing at Cinemark Tinseltown USA and XD movie theater. Sink into one of the comfortable movie chairs as you watch a family-friendly film. The kids can enjoy all kinds of treats like candy and popcorn, while adults sip on a cold beer, glass of wine, or frozen cocktail. You can even host your child's birthday party here if they're an aspiring film buff. Party guests will love getting their own Movie Snack Pack that includes a drink, popcorn, and fun-sized candy. International Museum of Art & Science Immerse your kids in culture and knowledge at the International Museum of Art & Science. Kid-friendly exhibits include the wild bees display, DigiWall, sculpture garden, and more. The museum also hosts all kinds of fun events like its virtual summer camps, youth workshops, and family programs. Every Thursday, there is a family fun night where you all can enjoy an evening of special-themed activities that are both fun and educational. Show your kids this list of indoor activities to see what they want to do. There's sure to be something fun for everyone.

Image Via Pexels.com When you need a little dose of culture, head over to the Mission area to explore an assortment of museums. From local history to fine art, you're sure to find something you're interested in. Get started by checking out these three Mission-area museums. As with any of these locations, call ahead and take proper precautions. more International Museum of Art & Science The International Museum of Art & Science has something for everyone to enjoy. The purpose of the museum is to provide local residents and visitors with a meaningful and educational experience. It has many permanent exhibits to explore, such as its Mexican and Latin American Folk art collection, sculpture garden, and DigiWall. The latter exhibit engages both your mind and body as you play interactive games. The museum hosts various events and programs throughout the year. Youth workshops, Family Fun Nights, Philosophy for Everyone, and Virtual Summer Camp are just a few. Book a private room for any of your special events, like weddings or banquets. You can also schedule a guided tour to learn even more about the museum's displays. Mission Historical Museum Mission Historical Museum's motto is "Preserving the past to enlighten the future." This is apparent throughout the museum as you explore Mission's rich history. It includes both permanent and temporary exhibits that focus on different historical events. Learn the story of Mission as you look at objects and records from the past. The museum also hosts many different events and programs for guests of all ages. These include Artesano Market Days, Tardeada Zapateada, Hands on History, and Movies on the Lawn. Stop by for the Dia De Los Muertos Festival to celebrate those who have passed away. This event features live entertainment, various food items, craft vendors, and a community altar exhibit. The goal of all of these events is to bring the Mission community together throughout the year. Nuevo Santander Gallery Nuevo Santander Gallery is located right outside of Mission in the McAllen Arts District. During your visit, admire a wide selection of Old West collectibles. They include Old West arms, original paintings, military uniforms, furniture, and religious pieces. Some items date all the way back to the 1700s. The museum presents many of these artifacts in a historically fashioned setting to give you an authentic experience. By the end of your visit, you'll know much more about the story of border life on the Rio Grande and Colonial Mexico. If you would like a Western-inspired item at home, take a look at the Antiques & Old West Store on the museum's website. It features numerous vintage and collectible items, like one-of-a-kind spurs and sterling silver ashtrays. The website also has the Ceramics & Textiles Store that sells pottery, ceramics, and textiles. Many of these special items come from Mexico, New Mexico, and Europe. Much of this art is vintage, so you get to have a piece that is uniquely yours. It also sells more contemporary items if you prefer modern designs. When you have a free afternoon or evening, spend some time at one of these museums. You could learn a thing or two!

Image via Pexels.com The Ford Explorer is back and better than ever. You'll find comfort, style, and intelligent performance packed into one impressive SUV. The XLT is only one of the many trim levels, and brings with it upgrades both inside and out. If you're looking for the perfect vehicle that the whole family will enjoy, look no more. Here are four features that make the 2020 Ford Explorer XLT the perfect family SUV. more Power and Capability The 2020 Ford Explorer XLT is ready for almost any family adventure you can imagine. You get a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission with SelectShift technology. This combination delivers up to 300 horsepower and the ability to haul up to 5,300 pounds so you can haul a trailer, small RV, or boat with ease. Available four-wheel drive will deliver enhanced traction for a variety of weather conditions so you can go wherever the road takes you. You also get the option to add a Terrain Management System with normal, snow/sand, sport, slippery, and tow/haul mode for perfect handling under an array of driving conditions. Comfort To keep everyone content until you arrive at your destination, the Explorer XLT is packed with advanced comfort features. Enjoy the standard tri-zone electronic temperature control, unique cloth seating surfaces, and second-row power-assist folding captain seats. Available features for even more premium comfort include a heated steering wheel and twin-panel moonroof so you can enjoy the sunshine and fresh air on those nice days. Technology and Entertainment To help keep you focused and your entire family entertained and connected while on the road, there are several top-of-the-line technology features. The FordPass Connect system comes with the ability to connect your phone via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto so you can stay focused on the road, not your phone. You get SiriusXM satellite radio, a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hot spot, and even second-row USB charging ports so nobody has to worry about a low battery. A voice-activated navigation system can be added so you can focus on driving while it tells you where to turn. Safety and Driver Assistance Features There's a wide range of safety and driver assistance features to help keep your family protected while on the road. Standard features include a lane-keeping system with lane-keeping assist, lane-keeping alert, and driver alert as well as an advanced reverse sensing system. In case of a collision, there's a Safety Canopy air bag system, front driver and passenger knee air bags, and the SOS Post-Crash Alert System. This will activate your horn and flashers if it senses air bags have been deployed. Drive confidently knowing that your family's safety is always being looked after. If you want to check out the 2020 Explorer XLT for yourself, come visit us here at Spikes Ford. One of our knowledgeable sales team members will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. You can even get set up for a test drive! We hope to see you soon.

Image via Ford.com When you're looking for the perfect fit for a new driver, you want a car that's efficient, offers a safe ride, and features lots of modern technology. The 2020 Ford EcoSport ticks all these boxes and, to boot, also features a compact size that makes for easier maneuvering, as well as a comfortable interior. Here's some more information on this modern subcompact crossover. more Modern Infotainment System One of the primary considerations for young people when buying a vehicle is modern technology. The base S EcoSport trim keeps new drivers connected and entertained with Ford's SYNC infotainment system that comes standard with a Wi-Fi hot spot, USB ports, and six speakers. Higher trims add many convenient upgrades, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, an 8-inch display, SiriusXM, navigation, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system with 10 speakers. Safe Drive As new drivers don't have much experience on the road, they prioritize safety when shopping for a ride. The available intelligent four-wheel-drive system will afford a new driver added confidence by delivering improved traction that keeps the vehicle firmly on the road. In addition, the EcoSport also comes standard with safety niceties like hill start assist, a rear-view camera, an emergency brake system, and configurable daytime running lights. On the top trims are advanced driver-assist features that will help to prevent possible collisions or mitigate the severity should one occur. These include blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, which assists a driver in detecting objects in their blind-spot zones, as well as a reverse sensing system and rain-sensing wipers. Capable and Efficient Powertrains It's an open secret that every novice driver needs enough power from a vehicle to easily overtake on the highway and safely get from point A to B, plus an engine that won't break the bank when refueling. The standard 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine provides a capable 123 horsepower and 125 pound-feet of torque and estimated fuel efficiency of 27 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. Front-wheel drive is standard with this engine and four-wheel drive optional Those with a higher budget can opt for the more peppy 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 166 horsepower and 149 pound-feet of torque. This engine comes standard with a four-wheel-drive system. Also, both engines feature auto stop-start technology, which makes for a more efficient ride by automatically shutting down the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt and restarting it when you lift your foot from the brake pedal. Comfortable Cabin The EcoSport offers respectable space for up to five passengers and an above-average cargo area of 20.9 cubic feet, which can be extended to a maximum of 50 cubic feet by folding down the 60/40 split-folding rear seats. Although the base trim offers basic features like cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and remote keyless entry, the higher trims add a lot of luxuries. These include leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, electronic automatic climate control, push-button start, ambient lighting, a power moonroof, and a heated steering wheel. A new driver looking for an easily maneuverable and safe compact vehicle that offers plenty of modern technology? Then, take a closer look at the 2020 EcoSport.

Image via Pexels.com Most vehicles require you to change your oil every 3,000 to 10,000 miles. Of course, this varies based on the vehicle you drive and the oil it uses. By keeping up with this regular maintenance, you can keep your car running well in the long run. If you want to check your oil level, follow these steps. more Read Through Your Owner's Manual Your owner's manual contains a lot of valuable information about your Ford, including what kind of oil it takes, how often you should change it, and where to find the oil dipstick. Take a few minutes to review your owner's manual to learn more about how often you should check your fluid levels. Find the Right Materials Checking your oil can be a bit messy. Make sure to grab a lint-free rag, like an old T-shirt, to wipe up any oil that drips. You will also use it to clean off your dipstick. Although it's not necessary, you may want to put on a pair of gloves to avoid getting oil on your fingers. Warm Your Engine Get an accurate oil reading by checking it while it's warm. You can do this by turning on your car for a few minutes or taking a ride around the block. Wait about 10 minutes for the engine to cool down before you pop the hood. Park your Ford on a level surface to ensure the oil is also level in the pan. Open the Hood To pop your hood, you usually need to pull a handle that's on the driver's side of your vehicle's interior. Keep it securely propped open so you can get a good look inside. Locate the Dipstick A dipstick is a rod for measuring your oil level. Its tip is usually yellow or orange with a small circular handle. Pull it out, then take your rag and wipe off the oil, which helps you get a better reading. Once the dipstick is clean, insert it back in the tube. Check the Level on the Dipstick Remove the dipstick a second time and look at the end of it. Check for small holes or cross-hatchings that indicate normal levels. If your oil is in between the two markings, the level is normal. When your oil level is low, touch the dipstick to feel the texture of your oil. If it feels clean, you can top off your oil level using a funnel. If it's gritty, you need to fully change your oil. The easiest way to do this is by taking it into a service shop. Let Spikes Ford take care of the hassle of checking and changing your oil. Stop by our service department to have one of our skilled technicians do the job. We can also take care of any of your other regular services, such as rotating your tires or topping off your other fluids. By regularly bringing your vehicle in, you can keep it running like new. Ready to schedule a service appointment? Give us a call at 956-585-1601 to pick a time that's convenient for you.

If you're in the market for an affordable used vehicle, shop Ford. Ford is a legacy auto brand that builds cars to last. Check out these three Fords that you can get for under $15,000. 2018 Ford Escape S Even though the 2018 Ford Escape S is a roomy crossover SUV, it handles just like a car. While you're on the road, you can feel confident that you are in control. It's a great vehicle for a long road trip since its seats are quite comfortable. Getting in and out of the vehicle is easy and doesn't require bending over, and both front and rear passenger seats have plenty of room. The 2018 Ford Escape S has the Sync 3 infotainment system that features clear touch-screen graphics. The system has quick response times, and virtually anyone can navigate it. Paring your Apple or Android phone is easy thanks to its Bluetooth integration. You can access all of your favorite media while on the road. It also comes with an advanced voice recognition system that can understand basically everything you say. Check on the health of your vehicle with the Sync Connect app. You can even use it to find a parking spot. more 2018 Ford Focus SEL Now that Ford is discontinuing its Focus model, it's time to get your hands on a lightly used one. The 2018 Ford Focus SEL features a comfortable and quiet cabin that makes your rides more enjoyable. It's built to block out the noise of the wind and road as you drive. The car's suspension makes for a smooth ride and gives you a constant feeling of control. The 2018 Ford Focus SEL comes with the Sync 3 infotainment system that includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Use this to access all of your music, podcasts, audiobooks, and other media on the road. The 8-inch touch-screen central display is simple to use as it offers an intuitive interface. It also has a 10-speaker Sony audio system so everyone in the car can enjoy what's playing. 2019 Ford Fiesta SE The 2019 Ford Fiesta SE is hardly a used vehicle, but it comes with all of the perks of buying used. Along with its affordable price tag, it is an incredibly comfortable subcompact vehicle. It offers nice seating and overall high ride quality. What's especially impressive is how quiet the interior is. Its noise-blocking capabilities make for a more relaxing morning commute. The 2019 Ford Fiesta SE is well-equipped with modern technology. It includes a voice recognition system that makes it easy to operate your infotainment system while keeping your focus on the road. Other technological features include turn-by-turn directions and emergency assistance. Access all of your media on its 6.5-inch touch screen that has sharp graphics and intuitive design. If you want to shop Ford or other affordable used vehicles, check out Spikes Ford in Mission, Texas. We offer a wide selection of Ford cars and SUVs under $15k that you can test drive today. Image via DealerOn Assets

Image via Pexels.com Keeping yourself and others safe on the road is important. This is why the 2020 Ford Co-Pilot comes equipped with several driver-assist technologies that work to avoid any possible collisions. Check out these impressive, high-tech safety features on the 2020 Ford Co-Pilot. more Pro Trailer Backup Assist If you're planning to tow with this vehicle, you'll love the Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature. All you need to do is move a small knob to control the trailer. You'll enter the measurements of your car and vehicle, then the camera will track the trailer's location as your vehicle backs into it. As the system is moving your steering wheel, you'll continue turning your knob to direct the trailer until it's safely attached to your vehicle. Rear View Camera Backing in or out of a spot got a whole lot easier with the Rear View Camera. You can see objects behind you without even turning your head. This allows you to safely reverse out of your spot with confidence. If you don't realize a car or person is approaching, the reverse brake assist feature alerts you by making noise or the brakes will activate to quickly stop your car. Evasive Steering Assist There can be moments where traffic slows down and speeds up periodically throughout the day. When this happens, cars may slow down or stop unexpectedly in front of you, which can cause you to accidentally rear-end them. To avoid this, the Evasive Steering Assist monitors this and provides additional steering support to help you easily move around the vehicle or object. Active Park Assist Since parallel parking can be stressful to maneuver, use the Active Park Assist feature to make parking much easier to handle. It locates an available spot for you, then helps you steer yourself into the spot. All you need to do is shift between drive and reverse and press on the gas and brake pedals while it safely steers you inside. If you upgrade to the Enhanced Active Park Assist, the car will also help you safely move out of a tight parallel spot. Another available upgrade is the Active Park Assist 2.0. When it finds you a parking spot, simply switch to neutral and lift your foot off the brake. Let the vehicle work its magic as it parks your car for you as it steers, brakes, accelerates, and shifts all on its own until it has safely parked you in the spot. Lane-Keeping System If you start to drift out of your lane, the Lane-Keeping System helps you regain focus by vibrating to notify you that your car is unintentionally moving over. This alert feature displays messages if you repeatedly continue drifting out of a lane. It will then remind you to pull over and take a break from driving. This can especially be useful for tired drivers late at night. If you do happen to drift out of the lane, even after receiving alerts, the lane-keeping aid will use its torque steering to safely move you back.   These advanced safety assist features are sure to boost your driving confidence and by keeping you safe on the road. Stop by Spikes Ford today to meet our expert sales team and experience these incredible safety features yourself.