About this photo: Humane Society Directors Leah and Nora promoting The Dog Gone Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday, March 30th, 2013 from 2pm-5pm.
About this photo: IT Director for Kody Holdings – Mike Fitzgerald directing the video shoot. He volunteers at The Humane Society once a month to shoot pet adoption videos.
Waldorf Ford, Dodge, & Pre-Owned‘s IT Director, Mike Fitzgerald spent an afternoon with The Humane Society of Charles County to help promote The Dog Gone Easter Hunt. The visit consisted of taping the directors of the Charles County Humane Society to discuss The Dog Gone Easter Event. He also taped pet adoption videos for which he volunteers every month to help friendly and adorable puppies, dogs, kittens, cats, and pocket pets find a loving and responsible home and family!
About this photo: Take a look at just a few of our adoptable animals for this month. As always please give us a call or stop by to see all of the animals we have available for adoption. Please call us at 301-645-8181.
These videos also help promote awareness about The Humane Society. The Humane Society was established in 1978 approximately 34 years ago. It has a dual mission of “Promoting the humane treatment of animals and of fostering a respect for all life, both animal and human.” ~The Humane Society website http://www.humanesocietycc.org/.
About this photo: Spring is Kitten Season! Take a look at just a few of our adoptable animals for this month. As always please give us a call or stop by to see all of the animals we have available for adoption. Please call us at 301-645-8181.
In these times of social media and the internet, it is important for us to hear what you have to say! Your recommendations and reviews are a great way for you to express yourself, share your experience, and educate others! Your feedback is important to us and it matters!
There are multiple places that you can reviews us:
Editor’s Note: Welcome our guest blogger Eric M. Carter! He is a Sales Consultant here at the Waldorf Ford & Dodge Pre-Owned Center, located in Waldorf, Maryland. He has been with us for since 2002. He is originally from Washington, DC and graduated from Largo High School in Largo, Maryland. Mr. Carter stays very busy with this family. His youngest daughter is a national celebrity! If you are familiar with the 2013 Super Bowl Champions – The Baltimore Ravens and our much-loved retired linebacker Ray Lewis, you may remember this VISA credit card commercial titled “Visa NFL: Ray Lewis’s Toughest Interview Yet.” The little girl interviewing “Ray Ray” is Mr. Carter’s daughter. He shows true dedication and heart in everything he does. From being a beloved father of five children (4 girls and 1 boy) and devoted husband, to informing and supporting all of his customers throughout their buying process; Eric prides himself on providing his customers with the Best Sales Experience. Eric has been in the automotive industry for 11 years and his knowledge is expansive. Please make sure to stop by to see him for help. He enjoys exceeding all of his customer’s expectations!
They’ve got a few miles on them and they’ve been around the block a few times but for the money you’ll save, that’s no big deal!
When buying used, prices are often softer than new and that means you you’ll be able to stretch your dollar further. If you need a big car for your family, or want a lot of options like a top of the line stereo but can’t afford that option in a new car, you’ll likely be able to afford it in the used car market even among newer used cars that are less than three years old.
2nd reason: Save on insurance.
Usually, insurance costs are higher for a new car of the same model sold used. Buy used and get a lower quote – it is as simple as that!
3rd Reason: Less depreciation.
The moment you drive a new car off the lot it loses value. A car doesn’t offer the same kind of investment a home does, it will continue to lose value over time. But if you’ve purchased a used car, then you’re already paying less and your loss over time will be less.
The reason for this is that the original owner has already absorbed the largest depreciation hit, so you don’t have to. Finally, another reason there is less depreciation is that you didn’t start at the higher brand new price like in a new vehicle.
4th Reason: Reliability.
Consider the value of a used car between one and three years old. It still may run like a new car or even better since all the bugs from the manufacturer most likely have been worked out.
For example, a slightly used car has had all those little things fixed from recalls, or for air conditioner components, to a lemon of a stereo of which otherwise is a great car. Also, a slightly used car will have plenty of life and will run well for many years to come just so that it is properly maintained just like a new car.
Finally: Making the choice to buy.
So, if your still debating on whether to buy a used vehicle start with asking questions. Begin comparing prices and inquiring about the financing opportunities. But whatever you do, it is always best to buy used from a dealer verse an individual seller. Buying from a dealer is better because if you ever have any further questions you have a place to go back to!
The 2013 Ford Fusion Energi is a plug-in hybrid aiming to be the most fuel-efficient midsize car in America. The Fusion Energi is projected to deliver more miles per gallon equivalent than the Chevrolet Volt or Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid.
Fusion Energi is anticipated to deliver more than 100 MPGe, making it the most fuel-efficient midsize car in America. Fusion Energi is charged through a port conveniently located on the driver’s side. A light ring illuminates when the car is plugge
d in and charging so owners know how much power is contained within their Fusion Energi battery.
The vehicle also features an impressive array of technological advancements – including Sync voice control, a lane-keeping system, and a system that parallel parks the car automatically.
For more information on this exciting vehicle visit Waldorf Ford to check it out! Waldorf Ford is located at 2440 Crain Hwy Waldorf, MD 20601. Call toll free at 888 284-1463 or visit us online at http://www.waldorfford.com!
Editor’s Note: Welcome our guest blogger Clarence Ball! He is a Sales Consultant here at Waldorf Ford, located in Waldorf, Maryland. He has been with us for since 2001, that’s 12 years to be exact! He is originally from Waldorf, Maryland and attended the College of Southern Maryland. Mr. Ball is very active in his community. From volunteering at local charity events to being visible at all our events here at Waldorf Ford, I am sure you have met him! His favorite part of the job is making sure his customers are completely satisfied! He also enjoys learning & developing his product knowledge base as you will see in this blog! Clarence’s automotive knowledge is expansive so if you have any questions ask for him!
It seems like it was just yesterday when in 2001 Ford Motor Company introduced The Personal Safety System and made it standard on most vehicles. At the time, this innovative system was a tool that recognized the weight of a passenger, how close they were to airbags, the speed of a vehicle, and also determined the amount of pressure need for each front passenger. Today, along with the Personal Safety System Ford has added standard side curtain airbags and rear inflatable seat belts in the Explorer and Flex. Even now the Ford Fiesta offers drivers a knee air bag!
In 2002, reverse sensing and flip down video cassette players were introduced when the Expedition came out. Since video cassette players, Ford has evolved to flip down DVDs to DVDs in headrests with USB connections. Then there came navigation systems. Navigation systems first started with a small screen with seven discs for each region of the United States, now they are large MyFord Touch screens running off a small SD card. That means saving space! The vehicles still offer the reverse sensing system but now have available rear view cameras which show you backing into a parking space, garage, or even assist in backing up a boat or trailer! Our trucks and vans now offer a built in trailer brake controller. This controls the braking of your trailer which is conveniently displayed on your instrument panel and can also STOP your loaded trailer faster than your conventional aftermarket brake controllers!
In 2007, technology in Ford vehicles really took a big leap forward with the introduction of SYNC. SYNC is an operating system designed by Microsoft that debuted in 2007.
In the first version, it was just Bluetooth for your phone and music connectivity for your line in or USB devices such as IPODs. The latest generation of SYNC on 2010 models and newer, feature SYNC Services which has a turn by turn navigation, Vehicle Health Report (gives you the health of your vehicle like when it is time for your oil change), and 911 Assist. All can be activated on the http://www.syncmyride.com website.
Next jump was the introduction of Adaptive Cruise control in some of our vehicles. This feature is great for stop and go traffic. It can measure the distance between you and the car in front of you. For instance, if the vehicle in front slows down, your vehicle maintains the same distance or gap between the two vehicles. Some of the other great advances are BLIS and Active Park Assist. The Blind Spot Information System automatically senses vehicles in your blind spot. It uses an amber indicator that comes on in the corner of your side view mirrors. Another great feature is the collision warning with brake assist. This is available on some models. This feature senses cars in front and gives you a warning if you need to brake quickly. It actually precharges your brakes so you can stop quicker than without this system.
Active Park Assist is another great feature. It can parallel park your car for you once a space is found.
So possibly, one day in the future you might see people with a car that can drive for them. Like K.I.T.T. on Knight Rider.
There are many more innovations in the works and some that are actually arriving in our showroom now. If you would like to hear more about them, just stop in and see me at Waldorf Ford. Waldorf Ford is located on Route 301 North in Waldorf, just 15 minutes south of Washington DC. You can find us online at waldorfford.com.
Snow is still falling in many parts of the country, but we’re just two weeks away from Daylight Savings Time, and spring won’t be that long in coming after that.
That means you should start thinking now about the ways you want to become car-ready by the time the new season arrives. I’m talking about everything from maintaining your car to buying a new one, to deciding what your future transportation needs will be.
For every step, you need a strategy, and that starts with the way you use your car. Here are five questions to ask yourself.
1. Am I happy with what I’m driving? The answer lies in how you view your automobile. Is it a matter of convenience, or a statement of style? Is your car still within your budget? Could you afford to step up to something fresher?
2. Is my car serving me well, or is it in the shop more than I’d like? Automobile quality is better than ever, but when a car reaches a certain point in its life-cycle, it can mean some major time and money spent on repairs.
3. Do I want to keep driving? How many times have you vowed, “This is the year I’m going to start taking the bus?” Likewise, do visions of Townie bikes dance in your head? Only you can decide whether you are ready to give up an automobile and go the public transit route.
4. Which car would I buy if I had my choice? Maybe you’ve done well in the market recently, or you got a bonus check. Perhaps you’ve finally gotten the settlement from damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. This is a good time to go car shopping, while dealers still have good inventories, so take a look at car company Web sites and videos. 5. Where would I like my car to take me? If you are going to drive somewhere, now is a time to think about where. Play with Google Maps, look at sites like Gadling.com and plan some road trips. I drove all over the South last summer and am thinking about a trip East this year.
Disclaimer: This article was originally posted on Forbes.com.
Whether you have had your Ford truck for 1 hour or 20 years, there is no time like the present to add some fun and even necessary accessories. We have compiled a short list of add-ons that most anyone can put on themselves, though you can always head over to see us to have our Aftermarket team order and install them for you.
These are listed in no particular order, except it does seem like the first ones might be a little easier to install.
1. HID or Xenon headlights. Upgrade your headlights to one of these choices for terrific nighttime visibility. They produce a whiter and brighter light than traditional bulbs. Light up the roadway ahead and avoid potential hazards sooner.
2. HID or Xenon Fog lamps. As with headlights, these new bulbs for your fog lamps really make a huge difference when your visibility is compromised by fog or rain conditions. These lights can be white or, as more commonly seen off-road, yellow.
3. LED Under Bedrail lights. Once you have installed these you will wonder what took you so long to put them on. These LEDs install right under the bedrails and out of sight, except when you need them. I am sure at one time or another you have had to fish around in the dark in the bed of your truck for something. Now with the flip of a switch, your whole bed will be lit up!
4. Back-up Camera. Most new vehicles have a backup camera installed. They are super handy and help to keep you from backing into the trash can or over the kids toys. They are also great when you are trying to hookup your trailer (unless of course you have a gooseneck trailer). There are lots of sources where you can buy a kit and install your very own.
5. Wireless trailer camera system. While this isn’t really for your truck, it is great for your own peace of mind. If you do a lot of hauling and want to keep an eye on your precious cargo, then one of these is just the ticket. You install the monitor in your truck and the camera in the trailer and voila! Well, maybe not THAT easy, but still do-able yourself. And the come wireless, so installation is even easier.
Those are our picks for today. What accessories are a must have for your truck? Share them with us by emailing them to leads@waldorfford.com. If you want more information about Waldorf Ford or any of the new F150s or Superduty trucks we have in stock, check us out online at waldorfford.com – or stop by and see us. We are located on Route 301N in Waldorf, just 15 minutes south of Washington DC.
Two new powerful and fuel efficient cars have arrived at Waldorf Ford. The winner of the Hybrid Awards, the Ford C.Max and the stunning Ford Fusion.
Each car boast a wonderful 47 mpg, but some readers are wondering which one is right for them?
The Fusion, starting at $21,700 places you in the right merge of style and technology. The sleek design, focuses on a mature class, while the fuel economy allows for longer trips, more often, at lower prices. Unlike certain flashy sports cars, pulling into your neighborhood in a new Ford Fusion will not scream “mid-life crisis” instead this car will articulate refinery, and a lot of fun.
The 5 seat C.MAX boasts an improved aerodynamic design, giving it a unique appearance that will fit in at Chandra’s soccer game and concerts or nightclubs. Such a diverse audience the C.MAX has. Some have questioned what the C.Max actually is, calling it a Frankenstein car, created from pieces of Volkswagen, Vans, and Sports cars. Ignite the engine, and create the fire, the New Prometheus has given man.
Whatever car you choose, you will be able to go further with Ford.
New High-Performance Ford Explorer Sport, a Fully Capable SUV Certified to Deliver Class-Leading Fuel Economy
The Ford Explorer Sport high-performance SUV is certified at 365 horsepower, with class-leading EPA-rated fuel economy of 16 city and 22 highway mpg
The Ford Explorer Sport’s standard Terrain Management System™ has been specifically calibrated to optimize increased EcoBoost® power
Explorer Sport features an interior inspired by designer fashion accessories, sporty exterior cues, and 20-inch high-performance tires and wheels
DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 24, 2012 – Ford’s new Explorer Sport will stand in a class of one when it goes on sale next month with an EPA-certified 22 mpg highway rating, the only seven-passenger, high-performance SUV on the market to do so.
New for the 2013 model year, Ford Explorer Sport arrives, packing a 365 horsepower EcoBoost® engine, high-fashion interior design and class-leading fuel economy.
“Explorer Sport hits a sweet-spot combination of power, usable torque, 4WD capability, with class-leading fuel efficiency,” said Bill Gubing, chief engineer for Explorer, Taurus and Police Interceptor vehicles. “The Explorer Sport EcoBoost engine matches Taurus SHO for output and the Terrain Management System has been specifically calibrated to optimize increased power – regardless of the road or conditions.”
Explorer Sport mixes high-performance SUV power with fuel economy of up to 16 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway. This is 3 mpg better in the city and 2 mpg better on the highway than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango R/T with 5.7-liter Hemi engines.
Explorer Sport scores 3 mpg higher in the city and 4 mpg higher on the highway than the supercharged Land Rover Range Rover Sport.
No compromises
“Explorer Sport is an uncompromised high-performance SUV,” said Gubing. “From making changes to the chassis and suspension, uniquely calibrating the Terrain Management System for added power, we’re delivering an SUV that delivers great dynamics and performance – while towing up to 5,000 pounds.”
The Explorer Sport features a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission with a unique 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio to provide the balance of responsive acceleration and economical low-rpm cruising for better highway fuel efficiency.
Ford engineers also added chassis tunnel reinforcements and a solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering (EPAS) rack with improved pedal feel and response for drivers, both on-road and off.
This model comes standard with larger brakes for improved pedal feel, stronger resistance to fade and better performance while towing.
Explorer Sport also has received special Terrain Management System settings for optimizing increased power and torque in on-road touring and under sandy, snowy, rutted mud and hill descent conditions. These changes enable a luxurious ride for driving enthusiasts, without the harshness or thirst for fuel of performance-intended competitors.
Development engineers validated snow settings in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and returned to Borrego Springs, Calif. to fine-tune sand settings.
Sport-specific calibration optimizes increased EcoBoost power and consistent torque to specific conditions such as deep sand or snow, at the setting of a console-mounted knob.
Design elements
The 2013 Sport builds on Explorer’s muscular, sculpted form with subtle cues to differentiate it from other models in the lineup.
Available in four exterior colors – Ruby Red Metallic Clearcoat, White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat, Tuxedo Black Metallic and Ingot Silver Metallic – Explorer Sport has unique 20-inch painted and machined wheels, features blacked-out headlamp and taillamp treatments, black roof rack rails, sideview mirror skull caps and a liftgate appliqué.
The Explorer Sport’s special grille is a low-gloss Sterling Gray mesh, with contrasting ebony high-gloss bars.
The black front lower fascia features a functional opening for additional cooling. Explorer logotype in billet-like black adds a bold identity statement.
Inside, the high-end feel continues. Charcoal Black leather-trimmed seating is available with and without contrasting Sienna inserts.
The interior design contrast was inspired by fashion, mirroring two-tones that are currently seen in leather accessories and apparel from design houses Balenciaga and Prada. Stitching is emphasized to lend a handcrafted appearance while highlighting Explorer Sport’s sculptured seats.
Explorer Sport also has unique steering wheel stitching, a technical look to instrument and door panel appliqués, unique Sport-logo floor mats and illuminated scuff plates.
Comfort, convenience, connectivity
As the top of the Explorer line, Sport offers a robust array of standard and optional customer-focused technologies that make driving more comfortable, convenient and connected. These include:
Dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control (DEATC)
10-way power driver’s seat with power recline and lumbar
Six-way power passenger seat with recline and lumbar
First-row heated seats
Compass and exterior temperature display
Rearview camera system
SYNC® with MyFord Touch® driver connect technology
Sony® Premium Audio System with HD Radio™ and 12 speakers
Explorer Sport can be tailored to individual preferences with the following options:
Adaptive cruise control
BLIS® (blind spot information system) with cross-traffic alert
Cooled seats
Inflatable rear seat belts
110-volt outlet
PowerFold mirrors
Rain-sensing wipers
Intelligent access with Push-Button Start
Remote Start
Power tilt and telescoping steering column
Adjustable pedals with memory
Dual-panel moonroof
Power liftgate
Class III trailer-towing package
Explorer Sport is manufactured at Ford’s Chicago production facility and goes on sale this fall. You can order your Explorer Sport at Waldorf Ford. We are located on Route 301 North in Waldorf MD, just 15 minutes south of Washington DC.
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About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 168,000 employees and about 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.
About Ford Motor Company
Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 168,000 employees and about 65 plants worldwide, the company’s automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.
Yesterday, when I was out and about in a 2013 Explorer, I happened to stop at a local grocery store to pickup some things. As I was walking into the grocery store a woman I didn’t know stopped me to ask how I liked my Explorer.
Have you ever had this happen? Seems like I am always being asked about whatever vehicle I am driving – whether it is an Explorer, Edge, Fusion or Super Duty. My answers are always honest about what I like and don’t like, but they do always end up promoting what I am driving. I guess its because I won’t drive it if I don’t like it….but that is probably the case with most of us.
So what did I tell her you ask? Well simply that I really liked the Explorer. It handles well, is roomy and gets decent gas mileage for it’s size. I encouraged her to take it for a test drive at a local event sponsored by our dealership. Hopefully she will and we can add another promoter to the Ford family.
About this photo: Humane Society Directors Leah and Nora promoting The Dog Gone Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday, March 30th, 2013 from 2pm-5pm.
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