A dealer can handle this quickly, but remember that unwelcome sensations from the transmission could also be signs of bigger problems, so ensure you have the trick checked professionally if you notice any. Sometimes, in just a year or two, the factory-installed batteries start to weaken and die — and when they do, a multitude of fussy electronic issues is possible across numerous vehicle systems.
At the first sign of one or more random electronic malfunctions popping up, have the battery tested and replaced, if needed. Other electronic problems can often be fixed with a computer software update. Now, onto some model-specific checks. Got an F in your sights? Be sure to spend some extra time working its climate control system and ventilated seats, if equipped.
Run the ventilated seats for several minutes, confirming that cool air arrives quickly and sticks around until you turn off the ventilation. Confirm strong operation of the heater and air conditioner, paying attention to the air available through each selected vent on the dash. Elsewhere, try all door handles, locks, latches, switches, and all remote key fobs, confirming proper operation from inside and outside of the truck. Dampness, mould, or signs of water staining indicate a water leak, probably from the sunroof or rear brake light assembly.
Check the ceiling liner carefully for signs of sogginess or water staining as well, which most likely may be around the dome light provisions, if present. Non-factory suspension components can also be problematic in some situations. On a related note, remember your PPI should include a diagnostic scan, which can reveal potential engine trouble that may not otherwise be apparent.
Finally, spend a few minutes with the touchscreen-enabled Sync infotainment system. Pair a phone or two via Bluetooth, and connect your music via USB. Plot a course in the navigation and flick through all menus and functions. The last complete generation of the RAM had a long life, and many owners have reported few, if any problems as their later-model trucks add on the miles. Across this generation, some changes to the Ram include a new diesel engine in , an available air suspension system, cosmetic and electronic changes, and more.
You should fully inspect the climate control system for proper operation, and be sure to work the engine and transmission across a variety of throttle load situations on your test drive, being on the lookout for hard shifting or rough performance — which are typically electronic in nature. Some have reported trouble with the air suspension system caused by corrosion or leaks, and others have reported issues with the diesel engine relating to cold-weather performance or malfunctions with the emissions system.
Check the cruise control and touchscreen interface for proper operation, too. Note that non-functoinal cruise control may be the result of a bad or sticky brake pedal switch, which some owners have fixed with a little shot of WD40 and some light brake pedal pumping.
Be on the lookout for a pulsation, vibration, or wobble felt through the body and originating from beneath the vehicle at all vehicle speeds, but especially closer to highway cruising speeds.
If you feel anything strange, slip the transmission into neutral and see if it disappears. If so, the issue may relate to a software problem with the transmission and further investigation is required. Other unwanted vibrations can be a sign of a bad alignment, and some owners say irritating vibrations required several attempts and approaches to fix.
Some owners have reported premature rusting in this area, which can diminish the looks and resale value. Finally, note that models were subjected to a widespread safety recall relating to the power steering system.
Work with a dealer to confirm no recall work is outstanding. Such work is designed to fix a latent safety defect, and is performed on affected models free of charge. The Toyota Tundra is another popular choice, the latest generation of which launching for From and on, an improved towing package added a transmission cooler and other updates.
Some owners have reported weak parking brakes, which will allow the truck to slowly roll backwards in this situation. New parts, or some adjustment of the parking brake may be required. Note that this issue will likely prevent the truck from passing a safety inspection. Some owners wish for a longer lifespan from the factory battery, reporting electronic problems as the battery dies. A technician should carefully inspect the 5.
Some say they choose to live with this slow leak instead of footing the bill to repair it out of warranty. In an empty area, place the Tundra in first gear and gently but firmly prod the throttle in succession. If you hear any clunking or popping sounds in the process, have a technician check the truck before you buy, as there may be a problem with components relating to the driveshafts, motor mounts, axle, or differential carrier bushings.
Finally, conclude your Tundra test drive by turning off the engine, waiting two minutes, and restarting it. If the engine struggles to restart when hot, a technician should check into a software update or Technical Service Bulletin TSB which can quickly fix the issue, which relates to a bad calculation in the fuel system. Sign up to receive Driving. All engines are automatic for convenience and ease of use. Your truck bed may be the most important aspect of your truck depending on your purposes.
Ford Fs come with minimum beds at 5. With minimalist cabin sizes for 3 total passengers to extended-cab options with room for 6, you decide how many people you want in your truck when you build your own F Advanced packages include a blind-spot information system, and adaptive cruise control, and a pre-collision assist. Ford pickups are known for their performance.
When you build your own F, you get to be in charge of how awesome your truck is. For off-roading and absolute maximum performance, no truck can outperform the Ford Raptor. It offers several driving modes allowing you to tear up the terrain with ease. Other Fs come with off-road options such as downhill descent control, a locking rear differential, and customized suspension. Finally, Ford pickups are first in its class for towing and hauling capacities. Tow over 13, pounds and throw nearly 3, in the back.
Your F can handle it. Not everyone has the same taste in pickups. One of the benefits of building your own F is picking out every aesthetic option you want. Customize wheels, running boards, trim, and paint. Additionally, new Fords are guaranteed not to rust, ever! While the basic models of all vehicles are, well, basic, when you build your own F, you can make your pick rival the luxury of castles.
With options like remote starts, heated and cooled seats, moon-roofs, and dual climate controls, you may want to sell your home and move in. While the Ford F looks like it could single-handedly tear down a building, it also surprisingly agile. Additionally, despite its size and power, the Ford Raptor plows through mountainous terrain, hills, mud, gravel, or sand like a lion chasing gazelle. Trucks are generally not known for their fuel economy. However, Ford Fs are. When you build your own F, pick the V6 Ecoboost to get a mindblowing 19 mile to a gallon in the city and 26 on the highway.
With economic gas mileage, amazing safety features, luxurious cabins, and a fantastically smooth ride, Fs make the best family vehicles. However, if performance and adventure is your game, outfit your pickup with performance shocks, suspension, and power! Driver assisting technology is something Ford Fs do tremendously well. Integrate your F with your smartphone to control it remotely.
Lock it, start it, stop it, check your fuel, or find it in a parking lot. Additionally, the Ford F has degree cameras and sensors. These aid in parking, lane guiding, collision assist and more. Finally, with touch-screen, Bluetooth capabilities, and smartphone integration, being bored while driving will never be a problem. Find us online to see our new inventory and used inventory or come meet us in person!
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