What is Enhanced Active Park Assist?

Whether you think parking is easy for you or not, you may not ever have to worry about it again if you get a vehicle with Enhanced Active Park Assist by Ford. This feature is only a few years old but it is something that has been a game changer. Within the system are exterior cameras and ultrasonic sensors to assist with perpendicular parking as well as parallel parking.

How Does it Work?

No matter the parking space, this system can help you fit right in. Through the use of the cameras, it can effectively help you back up into a parking space or even parallel park. While it is not yet fully automatic, it likely will be one day. For now, as the driver you will still need to take some action but the system will help guide you along the way. As soon as the system is engaged and there is a space large enough for the vehicle, it can maneuver the vehicle into the space. The driver still needs to provide braking and some minor shifts. However, with this system, you will never have to worry about hitting a vehicle while parking again. It is also a very accurate system so you do not have to worry about side swipes or even curb rash. The system is designed to park within 5.9 inches from a curb and it does so without damaging the sides of your vehicle.

Using it to Parallel Park

To activate the system, you will need to push a button on the dash. Once you have done thing, you can pull forward slowly until the perfect sized parking spot has been found. The system will notify you when it is time to stop so the system can then take over the guides to get you in the space. Remember, you are still responsible for applying the brakes so how fast or slow you go is up to you.

Using it to Perpendicular Park

Unless you live in the city, you likely will not parallel park very often but you will perpendicular park. This is also the way you will use the system to back into a parking space. To start this, you will need to press the park assist button twice. Then, you will need to slowly drive by the parking spot so the system has the chance to recognize it. At that point, you will stop and follow the prompts that the system provides. Again, you will have to control the speed by using the brake. Once you are in the spot, you can move the gear selector into Park.

It can take some time getting used to a system like this but it will help you park with better accuracy that you would on your own. It is also a safer option for your vehicle. Over time, you will get more and more used to it and will be thankful for how much it allows you to better protect your vehicle.

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Internet Integrations Ford Outfits 2010-2016 Vehicles With WiFi & More

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From phones to tablets to major city maps, a growing number of technologies provide direct access to the Internet. It seems only natural that cars would join the club. Ford had already planned to include WiFi in several of its 2018 vehicles, but recently announced that drivers of older models can integrate the Internet into those cars as well. This integration, which applies to most of the company’s cars and trucks made between 2010 and 2016, will allow drivers and passengers to use multiple devices on the road.

SmartLink Savvy

Ford’s new system, called SmartLink, will provide the vehicle with access to a 4G LTE network from Verizon. This connection will be able to support up to eight devices at a time, allowing the driver and passengers to stay fully plugged in during most outings. In addition to the Internet, SmartLink offers a number of other connections to improve the health and convenience of the vehicle. Drivers can use it to locate their Fords in parking lots, access comprehensive reports on the vehicle’s mechanical needs, and schedule maintenance and upgrade services. They will also be able to lock, unlock, and start their integrated vehicles remotely, as well as set boundaries and speed limits if someone else is driving. Drivers can access these services from their smartphones or through an online portal.

Installing the SmartLink system involves plugging it in to the Ford’s OBD II port. Drivers can have this done at their local Ford or Lincoln dealership. The technology will become available this summer; specific dates and price points have not yet been announced.

Setting Up For Sync 3

The development of SmartLink is occurring in tandem with Sync 3, a similar network that will be available on select 2018 Fords. SmartLink will accommodate Ford users who are not willing to wait that long, or who do not want to trade in their current vehicles just to have WiFi access. There will, however, be some advantages for drivers who wait for Sync 3, notably that the network will be able to support 10 devices instead of just 8. Sync 3 will also use a 4G LTE network from AT&T rather than Verizon.

LTE Limitations

Although the SmartLink connection will be available on most Ford and Lincoln cars and trucks made from 2010 to 2016, there are certain exceptions. The new technology will not work with vehicles that already have modems, which include:

• Ford Focus Electric vehicles made between 2012 and 2016
• Ford C-Max Energi vehicles made from 2013 to 2016
• Ford Fusion Energi vehicles released from 2013 to 2016
• 2015 and 2016 versions of the Lincoln MKC that have the Black Label or Reverse packages
• Lincoln MKX vehicles that have the Black Label or Reverse packages and were released in 2016

If your vehicle is eligible for SmartLink, Lance Cunningham Ford will be happy to install it. For more information on getting this and other new developments, contact us today!

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What’s the difference between a 4×4 and 4×2 Ford-150?

If you’re browsing around for an F-150 though, you may notice these are sized differently. For example, there’s the 4×2 F-150 and the 4×4 F-150. What’s the difference? Is one better than the other? We’re here to explain.

Handling

Using the 2017 F-150 XLT as an example, the handling varies depending on if you drive the 4×2 or 4×4 truck. With the 4×2, handling comes standard, with trailer sway control, power-rack-and-pinion steering, coil and front springs, a fully-boxed frame, Electronic Shift-On-the-Fly, and front and axle independent suspension.

The 4×4 includes a trailer brake controller, Hill Descent Control, Electronic-Looking Rear Differential, axle upgrades, and Neutral Towing Capability. Overall, the 4×4 is the better option for handling.

Tires

The tires also differ from the 4×2 to the 4×4. The 4×2 F-150 includes 265/60 R20 BSW all-season tires or 275/55 R20 BSW all-season tires. As for the 4×4, choose from all-terrain tires like the 265/60 R18 BSW, 275/55 R20 OWL, and LT275/65 R18C OWL.

Exterior Features

If you get the new 4×4 F-150, you have more exterior options. Besides a chrome grille surround, halogen and fog lamps, black mesh grille inserts, Easy Fuel capless fuel filters, a tailgate with power locks, and manual folding side mirrors, 4×4 drivers can also select skid plates and up to two front towing hooks. Those who get the 4×2 F-150 cannot get these plates or hooks added to their vehicle.

Package Features

If you are considering purchasing a 2017 F-150 XLT, you can also choose from various packages that make this truck an even smarter buying decision. You can spruce up the looks of your F-150 with the Sport Appearance Package, Special Edition Package, and Chrome Appearance Package.

You can also pick some other cool add-ons, like trailer towing, heavy-duty payload, Telogis’ Ford Telematics, propane gaseous engine prep, and a 2.7 L V6 EcoBoost payload. However, only 4×4 F-150 drivers can add snow plow prep for inclement weather and the FX4 Off-Road Package for support no matter where the road takes you.

The 2017 4×2 F-150 is eligible for all but the last two packages. That still makes it a good value, although not as good as the 4×4.

Overall, while both the 4×2 and 4×4 are great options when shopping for an F-150, you get more choices in handling, exterior features, and package features if you choose the 4×4 model.

Whether you’ve decided the 4×2 F-150 or 4×4 F-150 is best for your needs, you can test drive both and plenty of other Ford models at Lance Cunningham Ford in Knoxville. We carry new and used Fords, including the F-150, F-250, F-350, and even the F-450. Come browse our inventory today!

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Great Features in the 2017 Ford F-150

Two years ago, the Ford motor company changed the truck landscape forever when they released the Ford F-150 body with its high-strength, military-grade aluminum alloys, rather than steel. Last year, Ford led the entire class of pickups in the area of max. payload capacity and fuel efficiency with a new standard of EPA-rated highway fuel economy. They also made it easier than it has ever been to hitch up a trailer with their segment-first Pro-Trailer Backup Assist feature.

In 2017, Ford is proud to announce the 100th anniversary of their tradition of producing top quality Ford trucks, and the manufacturer is pulling out all the stops. Their all-new, Second-generation 3.5L EcoBoost is now mated with an all-new 10-speed Select-Shift automatic transmission which delivers a best-in-class 470 pound feet of torque, along with a staggering 375 horses under the hood. In their all-new 2017 F-150 RAPTOR, which is the top-performing, most competent, dune-running RAPTOR to date, a higher-output rendition of the 3.5L EcoBoost serves as the powerplant for this muscular machine with its class-best 510 pound feet of torque which is also connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission to keep the engine right in its ideal position. That’s not all. Ford’s new one of a kind SYNC Connect helps drivers to communicate with the truck in a way that has never before been possible. And the attractive and popular design of the STX5 is back in this year’s Ford F-150, as part of Ford’s legendary F-Series lineup which has been America’s best-selling truck for the better part of 40 years.

New for 2017

• All-new, 2nd-generation 3.5L EcoBoost engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology
• All-new 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission with tow/haul and Sport modes
• All-new F-150 RAPTOR
• SYNC Connect
• Value and style return with F-150 STX
• BLIS with trailer coverage and cross-traffic alert

First in Class

• Military-grade, aluminum alloy bodywork, and cargo box
• 360-degree camera view and Split view Display
• Remote tailgate release
• Inflatable rear outboard safety belts

Best in Class

• 470-pound feet of torque on F-150
• 510-pound feet of torque on F-150 RAPTOR
• 26 mpg EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating
• Maximum payload of 3,270 lbs
• The F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 39 years running

Class-Exclusive

• Pro Trailer Back-up Assist
• LED side view mirror spotlights
• Active parking assist
• Tailgate step
• Smart-Trailer Tow Connectors
• Two-panel moonroof
• BoxLink™ locking cleats
• Storable loading ramps
• Adaptive cruise & forward collision alert/brake support

When you climb into a 2017 F-150, from the XL to the all-new 2017 RAPTOR, you will experience the strongest frame ever created for this legendary series of trucks. A fully boxed and modular advanced foundation made of up to 78 percent high-strength steel. This uncompromisingly powerful metal is incorporated into all eight rugged cross-members (five are through-welded) and frame rails. It forms an ideal platform for a revolutionary truck body and cargo hold made from high-strength aluminum alloy, an advanced formulation that will never rust and will resist corrosion. In short, it is designed and built to take years of heavy punishment.

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2017 Ford Super Duty Named Motor Trend Truck of the Year

Back when Truck of the Year finalists were announced, Motor Trend said if the awards were based on capability alone, the Super Duty would be the “runaway winner.” That’s certainly true. The Super Duty is a truck that’s designed for hard work with a max towing capacity of 32,500 pounds.

Yet, its clever design, safety features, and impressive technology array also helped to set it over the top. The 2017 Ford Super Duty (F-250, F-350, and F-450) recently edged competitors to earn Truck of the Year honors, one of the industry’s most prestigious awards.

Each year, Motor Trend examines the year’s best vehicles, looking at everything from performance and efficiency, to interior design. Compared to the competition, the 2017 Ford Super Duty line-up bested competitors in a variety of areas, and Motor Trend said it was an easy decision to make.

2017 Ford Super Duty: A Truck Built for Work

The 2017 Ford Super Duty certainly offers plenty of power. With 925 pound-feet of torque available, the 2017 Super Duty delivers best-in-class 32,500-pound towing capacity and a best-in-class 7,630-pound max payload. Yet, what really sold the Motor Trend voters was the 2017 Super Duty’s ability to maintain handling and braking power when carrying a heavy load.

With 30,000 pound in tow, the F-350 didn’t bat an eye, said Chris Walton, one of the award’s judges, and it load felt lighter than its 15-ton weight. Acceleration when towing was also impressive.

The 2017 Super Duty line-up is available two engine options. Options include:

• 6.2L 2 Valve Gas SOHC V8
• 6.7L 4 Valve Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

The Turbo Diesel – which delivers 440 horsepower and 925 pound-feet of torque – offers best-in-class horsepower and torque ratings. Another impressive performance feature: Class-exclusive Trailer Reverse Guidance, a back-up camera that can aid and improve trailer back-up.

Interior and Safety Features in 2017

Ford continues to refine and improve the interiors of its vehicles, and that’s clear in the 2017 Super Duty. The cabin features newly introduced technologies like SYNC 3. The newer, more advanced version of Ford’s SYNC infotainment system adds improved capabilities like:

• Siri Eyes Free integration
• Improved Voice Recognition
• Navigation
• High Speed performance

Plus, the Super Duty has made cameras and sensors available on all trim levels. These include cameras like an available tailgate camera, 360-degree cameras and the Trailer Guidance System. Each system provides a high-definition pictured to the SYNC screen.

Another innovative technology: The 2017 Super Duty is available with a range of crash-avoidance technologies. These include features like collision warning, autonomous braking, blind spot warning and adaptive cruise control.

Ford also improved body strength for the 2017 model year. In fact, Ford says the Super Duty’s high-strength aluminum alloy body is military grade – another only-in-the-class feature. This helps to prevent dents and dings, as well as protect the body’s integrity in the event of a collision.

Configure the Truck of the Year to Meet Your Needs

There are 15 available models, as well as a range of configuration options available in 2017. Crew Cab, Super Cab and Regular Cab configurations are available. Plus, 4×2 and 4×4 options are available as well.

Visit Lance Cunningham Ford today and test drive the 2017 Truck of the Year. As the region’s premiere Ford dealership, we offer unbeatable selection and pricing on all Ford Super Duty models.

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