Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Your Ford
Published: 13th October 2025Running regular maintenance of your Ford ensures that it continues to deliver performance, extend its lifespan, and provide safety and comfort wherever you drive. To keep it in prime condition for the long term, regular inspections and timely servicing are essential.
How to keep your Ford running strong
As an approved Ford dealership in Waterfall, Port Shepstone and Kuils River (Cape Town), Halfway Ford shares a helpful guide to keeping your vehicle in top shape while ensuring your safety on every journey - from city streets to road trips.
Follow your owner’s manual
To ensure long-term performance and reliability of your Ford vehicle, follow the service intervals in your owner’s manual. Depending on your vehicle model, these instructions are designed specifically for your Ford vehicle and cover all maintenance processes that ensure it remains in perfect condition, prevents costly repairs, and provides a smooth ride each year without issue.
Watch for Early Warning Signs
Warning lights on your dashboard, overheating or unusual noises are indicators that your vehicle may need servicing. Other indicators could include a change in brake performance, a slight rattling, or warning lights. Addressing these issues as soon as possible can prevent them from becoming a bigger problem in the future and make repairs more expensive.
Mind your tires
Routine checks of your tire pressure, wheel alignment, and tread depth can help with early detection and are one of the simplest yet most effective ways to preserve your vehicle and ensure safety on every journey.
Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated and well-maintained gives you a longer tread life. Did you know? Proper tire pressure can improve fuel efficiency. What’s more, enough tread depth gives you better traction and control - especially for less dry roads that are challenging to drive on, giving you safe and secure handling drive after drive.
Utilise authentic components specifically designed for Ford vehicles.
Maintaining performance and warranty is best done with genuine Ford parts. Prepare for each season - be it prepping for Durban heat or Cape Town rain - get your car in gear for shifting conditions with Halfway Ford.
Why Service with Halfway Ford?
Our certified technicians use genuine Ford parts and advanced diagnostics, delivering reliable and high-quality service and value every time. Let’s keep you driving with confidence.
| Questions | Answers |
|---|---|
| How often do you service a Ford Ranger? |
Most recommend servicing a Ford Ranger every 12 months or 15,000 km, whichever comes first. Some models, like the Next-Generation Ranger, may have different schedules, such as every 10,000 km or 6 months. Always refer to your owner's manual for the most accurate information. Also, consider your driving conditions, such as towing, off-roading, or frequent short trips, which may affect how often your vehicle requires a service. |
| What does a Ford major service include? |
A Ford major service is a comprehensive inspection and maintenance procedure that includes all the checks and replacements from a minor service, plus additional tasks. It's typically performed every 2 to 3 years. A major service generally includes: • Oil and filter replacement. • Air filter, fuel filter, and cabin filter replacement. • Spark plug replacement (on petrol engines). • Brake fluid and other fluid replacements/flushes. • A thorough inspection of the brakes, steering, suspension, and other critical systems. • Checking and lubricating various components. |
| What does a Ford minor service include? |
A Ford minor service is performed more frequently, often annually or every 10,000-15,000 km. It focuses on essential maintenance to keep your vehicle running smoothly. A minor service typically includes: • Engine oil and oil filter replacement. • A multi-point inspection of your vehicle's key components. • Checking and topping up fluid levels (e.g. coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid). • Inspecting tyre pressure and condition. • A visual check of the brakes, lights, and windscreen wipers. |
| How long does a car service take, Ford? |
The duration of a Ford car service depends on the type of service being performed. • A minor service can often be completed in as little as 1 to 2 hours. • A major service is more comprehensive and can take 3 to 4 hours or longer, especially if additional repairs are needed. Halfway Ford also offers an "Express Service" at dealerships, where a minor service can be completed in about 60 minutes. |
| What is a Ford maintenance plan? | A Ford maintenance plan can be seen as a prepaid service package that covers the cost of your vehicle's scheduled services and, in some instances, the replacement of some "wear and tear" components. The plans are designed to give you peace of mind and enable you to plan for future maintenance costs. They keep your car serviced by skilled technicians with genuine Ford parts. |
Book your next car service with Halfway Ford and let our expert technicians keep your vehicle performing at its best - so every journey is as safe, smooth, and enjoyable as the first.
