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The 2024 Ford Edge is a sporty and powerful SUV with excellent features, plenty of comfortable amenities for a fun drive, and the ability to take you as far as your imagination will take you. There's a reason why it's one of the top vehicles of 2024. Visit your local Ford dealer and take one of these models for a test drive today. Sophisticated Design This model is built to please from the inside out. The design is streamlined, with a prominent grille and great exterior lines. It also comes with Bi-LED headlights, which can help you see anything in front of you no matter what the weather throws your way. Plus, this vehicle makes packing for your family's vacation as convenient as possible, thanks to a hands-free liftgate that you can activate with your foot. more Inside, you'll find tons of terrific amenities, like plenty of legroom for everyone, storage, and many USB ports, so you'll never have to worry about losing your phone battery while on the road. A Safe and Secure Ride No matter where you go, this vehicle has your back with excellent safety features like Pre-Collision Assist With Automatic Emergency Braking, which employs your brakes if needed. The Lane-Keeping System is great for longer rides, as it keeps you from veering out of your line with a gentle warning.   Your rearview camera gives you a complete view of what's behind you at all times so that you can park anywhere with total ease, and Adaptive Cruise Control adjusts to the pace of traffic on longer drives, letting you relax and fully enjoy the road. Great Technology Thanks to a 12-inch touchscreen, you'll be able to control everything inside your vehicle without taking your eyes off the road. From switching between music or podcasts to checking the navigation, everything you need is right before you. Plus, you can also employ voice recognition. There's also plenty of wireless phone charging in the front of the vehicle, and you can link your devices up easily. Excellent Performance This vehicle is also exceptionally powerful, with a 2.7L V6 EcoBoost Engine that gives you 380 pounds of torque. You can also switch between different models, including Sport Mode, which provides you with all-wheel drive performance when you need it. No matter where you travel, you can power through any terrain and explore.   This crossover SUV has all the features that allow you to explore the backroads and take great vacations with your whole family in total comfort. Visit us at Chestatee Ford and take one of these Fords for a test drive ​today.

When it's time for a new car, you will have to choose whether to buy or lease your new Ford. There are certainly advantages and disadvantages to both financing options. Fortunately, your Ford dealership can make your auto financing process simple. Buying a new car is a good option if you want to customize the vehicle with aftermarket parts or if you expect to own the vehicle for more than three or four years. It makes sense to buy a car if you have a commute, or you expect you will need to drive more than 10,000 to 12,000 miles a year, since purchasing your vehicle means you will have unlimited miles. more Leasing a Ford makes more sense if you like to have the most updated model, or you prefer to drive a car that is continually under factory warranty. You may also want to consider leasing if you plan to keep your vehicle in good condition to minimize wear and tear. Leasing may also be a good idea if you are unable to gather a sizable down payment, since leasing a car is generally cheaper. Can You Buy or Lease With Ford Credit? Whether you lease or buy your new Ford, you should consider financing your vehicle purchase with Ford Credit. With an auto loan from Ford, you will be able to enjoy flexible loan terms and interest rates. For car buyers, Ford Credit auto loans help you build vehicle equity. For drivers who lease, Ford Credit allows you to select an ideal mileage limitation and offers a variety of lease-end choices. What Is the Financing Process Like at Your Ford Dealership? Financing your new Ford at the dealership is a streamlined process. First, you can submit an online application to be pre-approved for a loan to start your financing process. When you understand what you can afford, it makes shopping for your next Ford exponentially easier. After auto loan pre-approval, you can hammer out the details of your financing terms with the dealership. Financing through your dealership is a great option if you are trying to build credit, recover your credit, or you simply have a low credit score. The finance experts at the dealership will get you the most competitive rate based on your credit history. Using financing deals like a trade-in can make purchasing or leasing your new Ford more affordable. The choice of whether to lease or buy your new Ford will ultimately depend on your car ownership preferences and goals. Either way you go, dealership financing deals with Ford Credit make purchasing a new car a breeze. Check out your easy financing options when you contact Chestatee Ford today.

Did you know that Ford sells plenty of hybrid vehicles? You don't have to settle for gas-powered engines when you can choose from several hybrid options. At your local Ford dealership, you'll discover vehicles that are energy-efficient and offer you plenty of other advantages. Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid The level of design and engineering that went into creating the new Escape Plug-in Hybrid from Ford is seriously impressive. This vehicle offers you everything from Electric Power-Assisted Steering to Electronic Traction Control. The Escape Plug-in Hybrid includes a lot of upgraded technology and new systems that we really enjoy. more There are several key features worth mentioning. The vehicle comes equipped with Connected Navigation, which offers you traffic updates and real-time information on the route you're taking. There's also an infotainment system with a 13.2-inch display screen that allows you to stay connected all the time. Ford Maverick The new Ford Maverick is a hybrid vehicle that can generate a ton of power. The standard 2.0L EcoBoost engine delivers up to 250 available horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle also has all-wheel drive to provide you with optimal traction and control while on the road. This hybrid truck from Ford is just as powerful and versatile as the traditional gas-powered options. The new 2024 Maverick has a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds, and the 2.5L hybrid engine can carry a maximum payload of 1,500 pounds. You can transport plenty of heavy equipment with ease and efficiency. Ford F-150 Hybrid You can also purchase a new F-150 that has a hybrid engine. It's one of the most popular and iconic vehicles in Ford's entire lineup, and now it gives you the best of both worlds with an engine powered by gas and electricity. The hybrid takeover was inevitable, but the truck still has plenty of power that can take you anywhere. The fully hybrid 3.5L PowerBoost V6 engine has an output of 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. The F-150 is simply among the best in its class when it comes to combining gas and electric energy into a single drivetrain. Furthermore, with a maximum towing capacity of 12,700 pounds, the F-150 Hybrid can transport a lot of heavy stuff at once. Ford Explorer Limited Here's an excellent hybrid option from Ford that can accommodate the entire family. The Explorer Limited offers you three full rows of seating and has a spacious interior cabin. The vehicle also features an upgraded sound system that comes with 12 speakers and a subwoofer. Are you currently shopping for a new hybrid vehicle from Ford? Contact Chestatee Ford today and speak with one of our representatives about all the vehicles we carry in our inventory. We guarantee that you'll find a new hybrid model that suits your needs!

When looking at Ford vehicles for your next ride, you have to decide whether to go for a new or used one. Both options have great advantages, which can make the decision-making process difficult. So before you visit your local Ford dealer for a purchase, here are a few factors to help you choose wisely. 1. Budget and Financing When deciding between a new and used car, you should consider your budget and ability to get financing. New cars are costly upfront, but they also come with financing offers and incentives from the dealer. If you have good credit, you can get vehicle financing with little or no down payment. If you have no trade-in equity and are unable to get a good financing deal because of poor credit, you should consider getting a used Ford. Used Fords are cheaper upfront, which makes it easier to come up with a reasonable down payment. With the low initial cost, you will be able to pay off the used car faster than if you opted for a new one. more 2. Lifestyle and Preferences Do you want to experience the feel and excitement of driving a new Ford off the dealership lot? Are you big on the latest technology features and interior upgrades? If so, buying new allows you to experience the latest model and the newest tech features and upgrades Ford has to offer. If you need a practical and reliable vehicle that gets the job done, a used Ford is a solid choice. The used car market has numerous models for you to explore. You can even opt for newer Ford models that are a few years old. For thousands less, you will enjoy advanced Ford technologies without incurring the huge cost of a new ride. 3. Depreciation Considerations New vehicles undergo a rapid depreciation of up to 20% in the first year alone. If you are concerned about depreciation, you should opt for a used Ford. Once the initial buyer takes the hit on the initial depreciation, you will get the car for a lot less than if you bought it new. You can also sell the Ford at any time without worrying as much about taking a loss. 4. Reliability and Performance Buying a new Ford guarantees excellent performance and reliability. The factory warranty offers further peace of mind and guarantees that any underlying defects will be fixed at no cost to you. However, this doesn't mean that used cars aren't reliable. Well-maintained used Fords can still deliver years of solid reliability and performance. If you need assurance, you can opt for a certified pre-owned (CPO) model from your local dealer. Ford offers a 12-month extended warranty on certified preowned vehicles, ensuring you are covered if defects occur. Consider these factors when deciding whether to buy a used or new Ford. Stop by Chestatee Ford and check out our extensive collection of new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles.

Your Ford requires routine service for parts such as your engine, brakes, transmission, and tires. But when it's time for routine repairs at your Ford dealer, what kind of parts should you use? As a rule, OEM parts are much better than generic parts. Learn all about the benefits of original equipment manufacturer parts today. 1. Better Compatibility Original equipment manufacturer parts are the same size and design as the parts that originally came with your Ford. These parts offer superior compatibility when compared to generic parts, which may not fit perfectly under your hood or fit seamlessly with other parts of your vehicle. Higher compatibility generally means that your vehicle's performance won't be sacrificed. more Aftermarket or generic parts, on the other hand, can potentially damage your vehicle. Because aftermarket parts are made to fit multiple vehicles, they may become loose after installation. Sometimes, using generic parts may even call for expensive repairs later on. 2. Warranty Protection When you use OEM Ford parts for your vehicle repairs, you also have the benefit of warranty protection. Original equipment manufacturer parts typically come with a warranty that will protect you from the cost of replacing the part if there is a defect. In addition, when you use original manufacturer parts, you will not void the warranty on the rest of your vehicle, especially if this part is installed by a certified Ford technician. 3. Longer Lifespan Finally, OEM Ford parts have a much longer lifespan than generic parts. Original equipment manufacturer parts use high-quality materials and are made with the same methods used to create genuine Ford parts. Ultimately, this means that original equipment manufacturer parts will last about as long as your original parts did. Plus, when OEM Ford parts are used to repair your vehicle, you can be confident that this part won't fail. Does Your Ford Dealer Have Original Equipment Manufacturer Parts? The number one way to get original equipment manufacturer parts for your vehicle repair is to visit your local authorized dealership. The service department at the dealership is generally stocked with genuine parts and OEM Ford parts so that Ford vehicles can be serviced quickly. On the off chance that your part isn't in stock, the dealership can order the perfect part directly from Ford or an OEM manufacturer. These high-quality parts at your local dealership can be motor oil, brake pads, oil filters, spark plugs, gaskets, and more. In general, it's best to use original equipment manufacturer parts when you need to repair or replace a part of your Ford. Along with better compatibility, these OEM Ford parts will last longer and may even offer warranty protection. To learn about how to order parts for your Ford, get in touch with Chestatee Ford.

Have you had a long, stressful week? Are you in need of rejuvenating relaxation in Dahlonega, GA this weekend? If so, we strongly recommend hopping in your 2024 Ford Mustang and checking out one of these great relaxing activities you can drive to in the Dahlonega area. 1. Visiting Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo One of our favorite ways to relax and unwind in Dahlonega is to visit Chestatee Wildlife Preserve & Zoo at 469 Old Dahlonega Hwy. This wildlife preserve is open daily from 10 to 4, and you are free to enter the preserve between 10 and 2:30, but we find the morning the best time to go. Many of the animals that live here are alert and excited for you to feed them. more If you want to go after lunch, we recommend going around 1. At 1:30, you can enjoy a special sloth encounter. For roughly 20 minutes, you can forget about everything else going on in your life, sit on the floor, and feed the adorable two-toed sloths Flash and Sissi. You will not be able to pick up the sloths, but they will approach you and touch you and you can touch them and give them gifts. 2. Hiking the Lake Zwerner Trail We also find peace and tranquility hiking the Lake Zwerner Trail early in the morning. This 3.2-mile loop trail provides scenic views of the Yahoola Creek Reservoir, mountains, and woods, and you can park at 1680 Morrison Moore Pkwy E. We recommend heading towards the dam first, especially if you go in the middle of the day. Past the dam, the trail is shaded. Besides hiking, this trail is ideal for dog walking and bird watching. 3. Trail Riding Trail riding with Gold City Corral & Carriage Company at 49 Forrest Hill Road is another great way to relax. You and your partner can take a private guided trail ride in the middle of the week. If you do not mind riding with a group of strangers, you can go for a one-hour, two-hour, or half-day trail ride. The one-hour trail ride is a great choice for beginner riders, and you can get a lesson before the ride. The two-hour trail ride provides the opportunity to trot and canter, and the half-day ride is ideal for experienced riders. With a reliable Ford, there are many relaxing ways you can spend your time in the Dahlonega area. However, you must remember that routine maintenance is required to keep your car operating as it should. Contact us today at Chestatee Ford to schedule a service appointment if it is time for an oil change.

The muffler plays a crucial role in reducing the noise and filtering the exhaust gases out and away from your car. Ignoring problems with the muffler can lead to many other issues. If you notice any of the following signs, get a new muffler for your Escape, Expedition, or Maverick at your Ford dealer ASAP. Loud Noise One of the main functions of the muffler is to muffle or dampen noise. If you start to notice an increase in noise when you start your car or step on the gas pedal, it could be a sign that your muffler is on its way out. The noise could be due to damage, such as holes or cracks in the muffler caused by speed bumps or potholes. If you hear rattling sounds from underneath your car, it could indicate that the muffler is either loose or broken and needs replacing. more Bad Odor The smell of exhaust fumes is especially dangerous and needs to be addressed immediately. The muffler is responsible for filtering the fumes out of your exhaust, and if you smell an unpleasant odor around your car or while driving, holes in the muffler could be the cause. Unlike gas fumes, exhaust fumes have a burnt odor. Breathing in exhaust fumes is hazardous to your health. Asking your Ford technician to replace the muffler as soon as possible is critical. Reduced Fuel Efficiency If you have to fill up more frequently than usual, the muffler could be the culprit. The muffler regulates how fast exhaust fumes flow out of your vehicle and is crucial to how well your car runs. When the muffler fails to do its job, the engine has to work harder, burning more gas. Decreased gas mileage could indicate that the muffler needs replacing. Corrosion Corrosion, due to exposure to moisture or salt, is a huge problem that will cause holes and leaks. When there are holes in the muffler, exhaust fumes will escape, causing awful burning odors and health risks. Look at your muffler or ask your Ford technician for an inspection, and if there are any signs of rust, it's best to replace it right away. Engine Misfires If there is a hole or excessive damage to your muffler, it can lead to misfiring in your car's engine. When the exhaust fumes can't flow properly through the system and out of the vehicle, it can cause misfires, which can severely damage your car's engine. Replacing your muffler is relatively inexpensive but will save you money on gas and expensive repairs further down the road. If your car sounds noisy, misfires, you catch a whiff of exhaust fumes, or notice a change in gas consumption, call Chestatee Ford now for an expert muffler replacement.

The sophisticated synthetic motor oil used in most modern Ford vehicles performs a remarkable number of important functions. Not only does oil lubricate all the parts in your engine, but it also helps control the temperature, cleans away contaminants, and combats the build-up of acid and corrosion. But motor oil gradually degrades over time, so if you haven't had your oil refreshed recently, consider visiting your local Ford dealership for an oil change soon. If your vehicle uses synthetic oil, it's likely to last from 7,500 to 10,000 miles. To ensure your oil always functions at optimal capacity, it's usually best to have it changed every six months or so. You can also have your tires rotated and brakes checked at the same time. Both of these essential servicing procedures should also be carried out twice a year. more Severe Driving Conditions Wears Oil Down Faster Some driving conditions put more strain on the engine and cause motor oil to degrade at a faster rate. These more severe conditions include making frequent short trips of under five miles in ordinary temperatures or under ten miles in freezing temperatures. Frequent short trips don't give the engine time to warm up properly and therefore put the motor oil under more pressure to lubricate and combat friction. Driving at low speeds puts the engine under more strain, as does prolonged driving in stop-and-go traffic. Towing a trailer or doing anything else to increase the vehicle's weight also puts the engine under more pressure. Driving along dusty, muddy, salty, or sandy roads does the same, as does driving in excessively hot climates. If any of these conditions apply to your regular driving, consider having your car's oil refreshed more frequently. Follow the Schedule Recommended in Your Warranty When under a powertrain warranty, you'll have a straightforward schedule laid out for you for changing your oil. Simply adhere to the intervals stipulated in your warranty to keep the warranty valid, although you may still wish to do it more frequently if you think your usual driving conditions are more severe than those of other drivers. Arrange a Routine Schedule With Your Ford Dealership In our busy modern lives, it can be easy to forget an oil servicing appointment. So it's usually a good idea to ask the technicians at your local dealership how often you should change your oil and then arrange a routine schedule with a system of reminders to help you remember. Visit Chestatee Ford today to have your oil refreshed by our friendly, experienced technicians. We're a community-focused local dealership that treats all our customers like family.

Ford sport utility vehicles are among the most popular vehicles across the nation. If you're looking for a new SUV, you will be happy to learn that there are several Ford SUV options for you to discover. Check out these top SUV models at your Ford dealer today. 1. 2023 Ford Explorer The 2023 Ford Explorer is a full-size, seven-seat SUV perfect for families. The Explorer is designed to be practical, and it can adapt to all of your daily needs. Along with the thoughtful interior features, the Explorer is also equipped with performance ability and sophisticated interior materials. The 2023 model has three engine variations, including a hybrid engine, which are all paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The max towing capacity for this SUV is between 5,300 lbs and 5,600 lbs, depending on the powertrain specification. Drivers can upgrade the wheel size from 18 inches to 21 inches. Rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, and Ford's Terrain Management System are all standard features. more 2. 2023 Ford Edge The 2023 Ford Edge is an ideal mid-size crossover SUV. With a max seating capacity of five passengers and an EPA estimation of 28 MPG on the highway, this SUV is built for road trips, commutes, and recreational activities. The base SE model has a 2L twin-scroll EcoBoost engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and 18-inch aluminum wheels. The handling of this SUV is a breeze because of standard features like Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, traction control, post-collision braking, pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, and hill start assist. This SUV also comes with the Ford Co-Pilot 360 safety suite, SYNC 4A for advanced virtual connectivity, and an optional 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. 3. 2023 Ford Escape The 2023 Ford Escape is sporty, compact, and available in six trims. The base model has a 1.5L EcoBoost engine with FWD and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Features such as electronic traction control, power-assisted steering, curve control, and post-collision braking make the handling of this SUV a dream. The 2023 Escape is equipped with wireless connectivity to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, sliding second-row seats with 60/40 folding capability, and Ford Co-Pilot 360. Other key features include selectable drive modes, an eight-inch instrument cluster, and a six-speaker stereo system. 4. 2023 Ford Bronco Sport If you're looking for a more rugged SUV, then the 2023 Ford Bronco Sport is an ideal model. This five-seat SUV has a fuel economy of 25 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway, a standard four-wheel drive for each trim level, and a flip-up rear glass panel for easy access to the cargo area. The base model is equipped with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and automatic start-stop technology. Whether you want an SUV big enough for the entire family or you need an SUV that can take you off the road, Ford has you covered. Stop by Chestatee Ford to test drive one of these great SUV models today.

Like other automakers, Ford offers a number of vehicles offering great gas mileage. However, it sets itself apart by combining its economical powertrains with stunning performance, lots of creature comforts, and cutting-edge technology. If fuel efficiency is high on your list when shopping for a new ride at your local Ford dealership, then you should definitely check out these models! 1. 2023 Ford Escape This compact SUV offers several powerplants that promise to save you cash at the pump. The turbocharged options consist of a 180-hp 1.5L inline-3 and a 250-hp 2.0L inline-4, with respective highway fuel economies of 32 MPG and 31 MPG. There's also a hybrid 2.5L inline-4 that produces a total of 192 hp while achieving 36 highway MPG. 210-hp plug-in hybrid models get a whopping 101 combined MPGe. more Despite its small size, the Escape's attractive cabin can comfortably seat five people and provide over 40 inches of legroom for front and rear passengers. When the 60/40 split-folding seats are down, you can make use of up to 65.4 cubic feet of cargo space. The intuitive Sync 4 infotainment system offers wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. 2. 2023 Ford Bronco Sport As the legendary Bronco's more compact sibling, the Bronco Sport is a true performer on rugged trails while achieving up to an EPA-rated 28 highway MPG. Buyers can choose between a 181-hp 1.5L inline-3 engine or a 250-hp 2.0L inline-4 that also produces 277 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle excels off-road with the help of an all-wheel drive system featuring several drive modes for different types of terrain. The Bronco Sport's cabin grants generous headroom thanks to its safari-style roof. The tall ceiling also means that you can fit especially large pieces of cargo, and there's extra storage available in the form of a compartment hidden under the rear seats. Thanks to available rubberized mats and rear seats, the interior is very durable and easy to clean. 3. 2024 Ford Mustang The iconic Mustang's claim to fame may be its stirring performance, but its latest iteration can deliver surprisingly good efficiency, as well. At up to 33 MPG highway, the 2.3L turbo inline-4 will get you the most mileage while providing thrills with its 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. Even the GT model's powerful 480-hp 5.0L V8 provides 24 MPG highway. Quite impressive for a car with a 0 to 60 time of well under five seconds! Inside, the new Mustang's redesigned interior keeps the classic pony car feel while introducing advanced features. These include a 12.4-inch LCD digital cluster and an electronic parking brake that can be turned into a drift brake with the help of a track-oriented app that's accessible from the touchscreen. Along with a choice of cloth and vinyl, ActiveX, or leather trim, the interior offers several striking color schemes like Carmine Red and Black Onyx. As you can tell from this list, Ford boasts a varied lineup of efficient automobiles. Get in touch with Chestatee Ford today and we'll be happy to set you up with a test drive!

If you're looking for great scenic drives near Dahlonega, GA, or throughout Georgia, we have some recommendations for you. Whether you prefer relaxing coastal road trips or winding mountain escapes, the diversity of the Peach State's landscape makes it easy to find awe-inducing views just by hopping in your car. 1. Georgia Mountain Parkway Enter the Georgia Mountain Parkway at 152 Orvin Lance Dr. in Blue Ridge and be prepared to encounter some of the most tempting outdoor entertainment that the state has to offer. Plan an extended trip down the parkway, also known as State Route 515, to take advantage of seasonal festivals, hiking, and rafting on your way to Atlanta. 2. Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway Enter the Cohutta-Chattahoochee Scenic Byway at the Prater's Mill Historic Site, located at 5845 GA-2. The 54-mile byway winds through the pastoral lands of northwest Georgia on GA-2 and offers gorgeous Cohutta Mountain vistas along U.S. 41 before heading into the Chattahoochee National Forest. Follow the byway to the end for breathtaking views from a mountain overlook. more 3. Highway 197 Head to Clarkesville to find the entrance to Highway 197, which will take you north toward Moccasin Creek State Park. On your way there, stop to explore pottery shops near historic Batesville or have a meal on the shores of Lake Burton. Load your gear into your Ford Bronco Sport before you head out and stop by LaPrade's Marina to rent a boat and spend a relaxing day on the water. 4. Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway If you're near Blairsville, hop onto Hwy 17 to traverse the Russell-Brasstown Scenic Byway, a 40.6-mile stretch that winds through the Chattahoochee National Forest. Stop to hike along the Appalachian Trail, experience breathtaking views from Brasstop Bald, or simply admire the lush mountain landscape from the comfort of your car. 5. Dahlonega, GA Lumpkin-Union Loop If you prefer to stay closer to town, the Dahlonega Lumpkin-Union Loop offers stunning Appalachian views nearby. The loop is one of the town's best-kept secrets, which is why you might not be able to pull it up on your GPS — but finding it is simple enough. According to the visitors bureau, the loop starts at Hwy 19 and continues on to Hwy 129, SR 180, and eventually Hwy 60, taking visitors past several eye-catching waterfalls along the route. Whether you want to explore the best of what Georgia's small towns have to offer or be surrounded by the state's stunning natural beauty, there's bound to be something for you on the five drives above. When you've decided on your next adventure, stop by Chestatee Ford and our team of experts will help you find the perfect car for wherever your journey takes you.

Your vehicle's brakes need to be in excellent condition to ensure your safety on the road. The following signs will warn you that your car needs a brake repair from a qualified Ford mechanic at your Dahlonega, GA, dealership. 1. The Brake Pads Are Worn and Thin New brake pads are eight to twelve millimeters thick. If you want to see if your brake pads are still thick enough, visually inspect the pads. Look through the wheel spokes, and you will see the brake pads pressed up against the rotors. The pads should be thicker than 6.4 millimeters to do their job well. If they are thinner, you need to ask your mechanic to replace them as soon as possible. more 2. Ineffective Brakes Your car is slow to respond, and it takes longer to stop when you press down on the brake pedal. When your brakes aren't working as they should, a leak could be causing the problem. Low brake fluid or a leak in the brake system will reduce your vehicle's stopping power. 3. Wet Stains Under Your Car If your brakes are unresponsive and it takes longer to stop, check under your vehicle for puddles. If you see yellow or brown stains where your car was parked, it's a brake fluid leak. Ask your mechanic to perform a brake system inspection to determine where the leak is coming from. 4. Your Car Pulls to the Right or Left When your car pulls to the right or left when you apply the brakes, your vehicle's brake pads are not wearing down evenly. The brake pads on one side are more worn than on the other side of your vehicle, causing your car to pull to the side. The brake pads need to be adjusted to ensure even wear. Contaminated brake fluid could also be the culprit. Ask your mechanic to perform a brake fluid replacement. 5. A Squealing Sound Brake pads have a metal wear indicator built in to warn you when the pads are wearing thin and need to be replaced. When the pads are worn, the wear indicator makes a high-pitched squealing sound when you step on the brake pedal. When you hear this sound, it's a sign that it's time for a brake pad replacement. Don't wait too long before you ask your mechanic to change the brake pads. If they wear too thin, they will damage the rotors. 6. A Grinding Noise When the brake pads are worn too thin, the bare metal will grind against the rotors. That is the horrible grinding noise you hear. The rotors are being damaged and can get hot enough to melt. When this happens, the brakes will stick. This is very dangerous, and you need to get your car to your mechanic as soon as you can. 7. The Brake Pedal Is Vibrating You apply the brakes, and you feel vibrations through the brake pedal. This could be a sign that your vehicle's rotors are warped, caused by age and hard braking. Vibrations occur because the warped rotors are not making contact with the brake pads evenly. 8. A Burning Odor When your vehicle's brakes are overheating from overuse and hard braking, you will smell a burning odor. It's best to stop your car in a safe place and wait for the brakes to cool down. For your safety, schedule an appointment with your mechanic to inspect your vehicle's brakes. For your safety, we recommend that you ask your mechanic for a thorough brake system inspection as soon as possible when you experience any of the signs. Contact Chestatee Ford today for a brake system inspection. Our Ford technicians will ensure that your brakes are in excellent condition and you and your passengers are safe on the road.