A very warm Thanksgiving greeting from Bo Beuckman Ford to you and your family!  We hope you have a wonderful day and wish you much laughter, love and tons of turkey with all the trimmings!  May you be blessed this holiday season!

What Is A VIN?

Most vehicle owners have had to reference their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at some point or another.  Whether for the purpose of reporting insurance, registering a new car, requesting a vehicle history report or even as something as simple as registering for a parking pass; auto owners will inevitably encounter the long, confusing string of numbers and letters that comprise the VIN code.

So what exactly is a VIN number?

A VIN number is a set of alphanumeric characters that identifies an individual vehicle through use of a standardized system set forth by the Department of…

Invest in a Backup Camera

Vehicles with higher ride heights suffer from a loss of below-the-tailgate visibility, meaning you'll be completely unaware that toys, pets, or fire hydrants are impeding your path.  A backup camera removes the concern that your quick reversal out of the garage will end in the demolition of your son's Big Wheels and the disfigurement of your own set of wheels.  Improve visibility by getting one when you next shop for a new car. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0NrmWKpGguc


Available on the 2013 Ford Explorer; 2013 Ford Edge; 2013 Ford Taurus; 2013…

 Correct that Blind Spot:  There's no reason any of us should drive with blind spots.  Correcting the problem is all in the angle of your mirrors.  You want to set your side mirrors out fifteen degrees on both sides.  On the left side, lean your head so that it's even with the driver's side window and adjust the mirror so you can just see the side of your car.  For the right mirror, do the same while keeping your head in the center of the car.  It might take time to get used to the mirrors in…

Know State Laws:  It's easy to forget that road law can change dramatically once you cross state lines.  If you're entering new territory, know what the cell phone and snow chains laws are before you find yourself encountering the local law enforcement.  You may also want to check speed limits - you're legally required to know them even if they're not posted.

Map Your Route:    Navigation maps on your phone or GPS device have become a key item in the road warrior's toolbox.  They're great for rerouting, arrival time estimates, and on-the-fly route planning.  But…

 STOCK UP ON ENTERTAINMENT FOR THE KIDS/FIDGETY ADULTS

Keeping passengers entertained is important for two reasons.  First, it keeps everyone sane during the long journey, and we know how crazy it an get on road trips.  But more importantly, it also keeps them from distracting the driver.  Tools of the trade include games, books, DVDs, a sing-a-long set list (the cheesier the better), and some car-friendly arts and crafts

 MAKE AN EMERGENCY KIT

We can hear our mothers now; "Better safe than sorry!"  We imagine it was repeated ad nauseum in your house too.  Though, they have a point when temperatures dip, having car trouble can go from being an annoyance to a danger.  Stock your car for that  'just in case' moment with the right supplies.

For getting out of trouble:  Jumper cables, small shovel, sand or kitty litter for traction, and flares.
The necessary tools:  Flashlight, small knife, ice scraper and rope.
Added protection:  blankets, energy bars, water, waterproof matches, first-aid kit, and gloves.

#1  GET YOUR CAR SERVICED

For most of us, proper preparation for your upcoming holiday road trip is more about wedging suitcases into the trunk and grabbing that famous stuffing recipe than it is about car maintenance.  But...here are a few suggestions to help get your car in traveling tip-top shape.

1) Check Your Fluids:  The various fluids under the hood keep the mechanicals in your car from seizing and freezing which means it's vital to check and change.
     I am talking about the oil, transmission and brake fluids.   Schedule a Bo's Works Package - we will do…