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faq

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Where is Darling’s Ford located?

Darling’s Brunswick Ford is located at 262 Bath Rd in Brunswick, Maine

Is Darling’s Honda hiring?

If you’re looking for a company with strong roots, an eye for the future, great benefits, and a focus on employee and customer satisfaction, you should work with us! You can see our current job listings here.

We are proud to have been named one of the Best Places to Work in Maine for the past 8 years!

Does Ford have EV (Electric Vehicle) models?

Ford has two EV models, including the F-150 Lightning and the Mustang Mach-E.

Does Ford have hybrid vehicles?

Ford offers two hybrid vehicles, the F-150 Power Boost Hybrid and the Escape Plug-in Hybrid.

What Ford SUVs have three rows of seating?

The Ford Explorer and Expedition are both available with three rows of seating. The Explorer has room for up to seven people, and the Expedition can seat up to eight.

What is the most fuel efficient Ford model?

The Escape Plug-In Hybrid is Ford’s most fuel-efficient vehicle. EPA estimates show that the Escape Plug-In Hybrid is rated for 42 city/36 highway /39 combined city/highway MPG and 101 Combined MPGe (2024 Escape Plug-In Hybrid FWD). Your mileage will vary and depends on several factors, including your driving habits and vehicle condition.

Do you sell pre-owned Ford vehicles and/or other makes?

Yes, Darling’s sells used and certified pre-owned Ford vehicles and pre-owned vehicles from other manufacturers. In total, Darling’s sells 14 new vehicle brands and used vehicles and has eight dealerships in Maine.

Why is my vehicle vibrating after driving in a snowstorm?

You may be thinking twice about driving to Hermon (Bangor) Sugarloaf (Brunswick) for a day of skiing if your car is shaking during the winter. It’s understandable to be a bit nervous if this happens, but it’s likely a minor issue.

During the winter months in Maine, snow, slush, ice, and dirt can stick to your wheels and wheel wells. This accumulation can throw off the balance of your wheels and tires, creating a shaking or jarring sensation.  

This issue can be easily remedied by removing the frozen mush from the wheels and wheel wells. Be sure to grab some old gloves to protect your hands and keep them warm. Another method is to clean it out by taking your car to a hot car wash. You could also wait for it to warm up and melt. If you’ve done all you can and still have a vibration, you may be dealing with a different, more severe issue. Contact our service department for guidance.

How often should I change my oil?

Service intervals can vary depending on your vehicle’s model, year, oil type, and driving habits. You should always refer to your owner’s manual for the proper manufacturer recommendation for your vehicle.

For most Ford models 2008 and newer, it is recommended to change the oil and filter every 7,500 miles or every six months, whichever comes first. Ford vehicles from 2007 or older should be changed every 5,000 miles. Some vehicles may need to be changed more frequently based on driving conditions.

Our service team can help you determine if your oil should be changed and schedule an appointment for you.

How often should I change my engine air filter?

It is usually recommended that engine air filters be checked at least once a year and changed between 30,000 and 45,000 miles depending on your average driving conditions. The service interval can vary based on year, model, and driving conditions, so check your owner’s manual to verify the proper procedure for your vehicle.

Should I put winter/snow tires on my Ford?

Winter/snow tires will consistently outperform all-season tires under winter conditions and provide greater cornering, control, and stopping ability. They have unique tread patterns and broader grooves to provide enhanced traction on snow and ice and an enhanced capability to expel water and slush. Winter/snow tires are also composed of a soft rubber compound that keeps its flexibility as temperatures drop.

When should I purchase new tires?

You can check a few conditions to determine if you need new tires.

 One of the most important is to check the tire’s tread depth. You can do this easily with a penny. Place the penny into a tread groove with the top of Lincoln’s head pointed to the bottom of the groove. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, then the tread is at the end of its life and should be changed. Be sure to check all four tires.

Look for uneven tread wear. If you notice a tire is wearing unevenly, it may be a sign that it is under or over-inflated, a wheel is misaligned or imbalanced, or a mechanical issue. If you notice uneven wear, you should have it checked by a vehicle service professional. 

The age of your tires is another factor for tire replacement. Tires decay naturally over time, becoming harder, brittle, weak, and unsafe to drive. If your tires are more than six years old, it’s time for them to be replaced despite the tread life or mileage.

Damage from hitting a pothole, running over a nail, or curbing a tire may compromise the integrity of a tire. It is always a good idea to have a professional check the tire soon after an incident happens. Often the tire can be repaired or it may need to be replaced.