When truck buyers compare Ford and Chevrolet dealerships, the conversation often starts with capability and price. What matters just as much over time is maintenance cost. Trucks are long term investments, especially for owners who tow, haul, or rely on their vehicle for daily work. Understanding what actually drives maintenance expenses helps buyers make better ownership decisions and evaluate service departments with clarity rather than assumptions.
This breakdown focuses on how maintenance costs are created, what differs between Ford and Chevrolet truck ownership, and why dealership service quality plays a larger role than brand labels alone.
Maintenance Cost Versus Repair Cost
One of the most common misunderstandings in truck ownership is confusing maintenance with repairs.
Maintenance costs include:
- Oil and filter changes
- Transmission service
- Brake system service
- Cooling system maintenance
- Differential and transfer case service
- Software updates and inspections
Repair costs occur when components fail prematurely or outside normal wear cycles. A truck with predictable maintenance needs often costs less to own long term even if individual services are not the cheapest upfront.
Read the rest of this entry »For truck buyers in northeast Indiana, the purchase decision does not end at the dealership lot. Long-term maintenance costs play a significant role when comparing Ford and Chevrolet trucks, especially for owners who plan to keep their vehicles beyond the warranty period. Understanding where those costs come from requires looking beyond brand perception and into how trucks are engineered, serviced, and maintained over time. While brand loyalty often drives initial consideration, ownership costs are shaped by mechanical design, service intervals, and dealership support rather than marketing claims.
What Actually Drives Truck Maintenance Costs Over Time
Maintenance costs are influenced by a combination of routine service requirements and the likelihood of component wear as mileage accumulates. For full-size and heavy-duty trucks, the most common cost drivers include:
- Engine oil capacity and oil type requirements
- Transmission service intervals and fluid complexity
- Cooling system design and thermal management demands
- Brake system size and load rating
- Suspension components designed for towing and payload
Both Ford and Chevrolet build trucks intended for work, but the engineering approach behind their powertrains and chassis can influence service frequency and cost.
Read the rest of this entry »Discover the All New 2025 Ford Bronco
Conquering rugged terrain without breaking a sweat, the 2025 Ford Bronco is a popular SUV that offers strong-performing engines, legendary versatility, and innovative technology throughout its many entertainment and off-roading features.
Explore the All-New 2025 Ford Bronco in Bluffton, IN
Three Turbocharged Engines
This edition of the Bronco gives you three turbocharged engines to choose from among its seven trim levels (Base, Big Bend, Outer Banks, Heritage Edition, Stroppe Edition, Badlands, and Raptor.) A 300-horsepower 2.3-liter I-4 comes standard with Base, Outer Banks, Big Bend, Badlands, and Heritage Edition trims, while the Stroppe Edition features a 330-horsepower 2.7-liter V6 that’s available for many others. The third engine, a 418-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, comes exclusively with the rugged Raptor trim.
Read more: Discover the All New 2025 Ford BroncoStrong Off-Roading Capabilities
Few SUVs offer standard four-wheel drive across their entire trim lineup like this one does, which teams up with the included G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) Modes terrain management system. While the standard 4×4 system in lower trims easily tackles most off-road challenges, select upper trims have a more advanced system that has automatic on-demand engagement. Handling is enhanced by the included H.O.S.S., a suspension system specifically designed for off-roading that also provides smoother rides.
Comfy With a Nature-Ready Design
Inside the cabin, climate control comes standard in all models, with dual-zone functionality in most upper trims, and the second row has a split-folding bench seat. The vehicle’s acoustic windshield provides peaceful drives, and the front seats have a heating setting in every trim other than the base trim. Outside, a 150-degree swing gate can be found in the back to make cargo loading easier, and both the doors and top can be removed for immersive drives through nature.
Advanced Technology Throughout
Many helpful technology features are also included, like the SYNC 4 infotainment system, which has swipe capability and enhanced voice recognition for controlling many of its functions on a 12-inch full-color display. This system also has AM/FM stereo, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility and pairs with a standard 7-speaker audio system. A premium 12-speaker B&O sound system is available for select trims, and you can easily gauge driving information on the standard 12-inch LCD digital instrument cluster.
Sophisticated Driver Assistance
A wide range of safety and driver-assist features come with this SUV, including dual-stage airbags and side airbags for both the driver and front passenger, as well as Ford’s Safety Canopy Side-Curtain with Rollover Sensor system. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, the Rear View Camera with Backup Assist Grid Lines, Auto High-Beam Headlamps, and stability-enhancing features like Trailer Sway Control and AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) are also included with every model.
Ready for more than a glimpse? Contact us at Family Ford of Bluffton to check out the adventurous 2025 Bronco today.
Four Exciting Features of the 2025 Ford Mustang
The Mustang is an icon of American design, combining bold styling with exceptional performance. The 2025 Ford Mustang builds on this legacy, taking the classic design and adding advanced technology to create something truly special.
2025 Ford Mustang Features:
Powerful Engine Technology
The Mustang EcoBoost Fastback has a 2.3-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine that delivers 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Modular Power Cylinder technology improves efficiency by optimizing combustion and managing power delivery.
If you move up through the trim levels, you’ll get either the Gen-4 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine or the modified Gen-4 5.0-liter Coyote V8 engine. The former is included in the GT Coupe trim and delivers a meaty 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque. The latter only makes an appearance on the Dark Horse coupe, and with the naturally aspirated engine, the horsepower climbs to a blistering 500, with the same 418 lb-ft torque.
The 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E is not just another electric vehicle (EV); it’s a breakthrough in the world of automotive engineering. Ford continues to innovate, merging thrilling performance with cutting-edge technology, efficiency, and sustainability. This electric SUV is more than just a green alternative—it’s a bold statement in the electric car market that is reshaping the future of driving. In this article, we explore the key aspects that make the 2025 Ford Mustang Mach-E a revolutionary choice for modern drivers.
Performance: A New Era of Electric Power
The Mustang Mach-E stands apart from its competitors with its exceptional electric performance. Ford has designed this SUV to deliver the same exhilarating experience that the Mustang brand is known for. With multiple performance options, the 2025 Mach-E caters to a wide range of driving preferences.
- Powerful Engine Options: The 2025 Mach-E offers several powertrains, including standard and extended-range battery options. With up to 480 horsepower in the GT trim, the Mach-E provides impressive acceleration and top speeds. Whether you’re navigating city streets or enjoying open highways, the Mach-E delivers a driving experience that’s second to none.
- All-Wheel Drive (AWD): For added control and performance, the Mach-E is available with an all-wheel drive option. This ensures that you can handle a variety of road conditions with ease, whether in rain, snow, or rough terrain.
- Instant Torque: One of the standout features of electric vehicles is the instantaneous torque they deliver. The Mach-E provides smooth, quick acceleration that gives drivers a thrilling and seamless driving experience. Say goodbye to traditional gear shifting; the Mach-E gives you the freedom to accelerate without delay.
The 2025 Ford Explorer offers a dynamic and versatile driving experience, with multiple trim levels designed to meet various driving preferences. Whether you seek a practical family SUV, a performance-focused ride, or a luxury vehicle, the Ford Explorer lineup has something to offer. At Family Ford of Bluffton, we’re here to guide you through the key features of the Active, ST-Line, Platinum, and ST trims so you can find the perfect match for your needs.
Active Trim: A Practical SUV with Enhanced Features
The Ford Explorer Active trim is perfect for drivers looking for a blend of performance and practicality. Designed for those who enjoy occasional off-road excursions while prioritizing comfort and functionality, the Active trim provides the following features:
- 2.3L EcoBoost® Engine: The Active trim comes equipped with a turbocharged engine that delivers the power you need for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
- Sporty Exterior Styling: It boasts rugged, adventure-ready features like unique exterior badging and exclusive wheels.
- Advanced Technology: Includes a 12-inch digital display, Ford Co-Pilot360™ technology, and the SYNC® 3 system with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration.
- Off-Road Ready Features: Designed with an active lifestyle in mind, the Active trim offers features like skid plates and enhanced suspension for off-road driving.
This trim is ideal for those who want a vehicle capable of handling the urban jungle and the great outdoors.
Test Drive the All New 2025 Ford Ranger
Tough and reliable, the 2025 Ford Ranger is ready to take on the world with five selectable drive modes, an immense towing capacity, and room to fit the whole family. Whether you are looking for a new truck for work or for play, the Ranger is raring to go and waiting for you to come take a spin.
Discover the 2025 Ford F-150
In the class of full-size pickups, the 2025 Ford F-150 reigns supreme by offering both two- and four-door designs, stunning performance, cutting-edge technology, and a customizable interior that’s as comfortable as it is stylish.
Introducing the 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning
The next chapter for the F-150 series is electric, and the 2025 Ford F-150 Lightning leads the way. The full-size pickup truck offers a dual-motor setup that is capable of handling serious work and several utility features that make it a useful companion in a variety of situations.
6 Reasons to Love the 2025 Ford Escape
With its style, practicality, and technology, the 2025 Ford Escape has the versatility to handle your daily commute, weekly errands, and weekend fun equally well. Let’s explore some of the features people love most about this compact SUV.
