Brewster, New York, is a gem of a town, offering an abundance of delights for residents and visitors alike. You’re definitely missing out if you haven’t ventured out to fully explore and enjoy the area. Whether you’re entertaining a foodie or a family, there’s something here that’s sure to delight everyone. Here are some of our top picks.

Take a Walk on the Putnam Trailway

The Putnam Trailway follows 12 miles of the railroad corridor that was created in the 1880s. The corridor served passenger railroads through the 1950s and continued to provide passage for trains hauling freight through the 1980s. The 45-mile route is now divided into four paved trails for pedestrians and cyclists. It begins at Putnam Avenue between Eagle Ridge Road and Putnam Terrace in Brewster and ends at Baldwin Place at New York State Route 118/Tomahawk Street.

The Putnam Trailway travels through miles of shady hardwoods, past picturesque Lake Mahopac, Lake Casse, and Lake Gleneida, and on to the 1,000-foot causeway passing over Middle Branch Reservoir. The walk includes several steep climbs that present a satisfying challenge.

Location: 30 Tilly Foster Road, Brewster.

Splash Into Tonetta Lake

As a Brewster resident, you get to enjoy the exclusive delights of Tonetta Lake. This charming lake has ample space for swimming and a sandy beach where you and your family can relax and enjoy the sun. Beach passes are seasonal, and you’ll need to buy a new pass each year. Would you prefer a daily payment option? If so, Tonetta Lake offers affordable day passes that you can also purchase for guests you wish to bring along. The lake opens for the season on Memorial Day weekend.

Location: 140 Pumphouse Road, Brewster.

Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. on Memorial Day weekend and weekends up to June 24. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends and holidays after June 24. Noon to 7 p.m. on weekdays after June 24.

Hit the Brewster Ice Arena

The Brewster Ice Arena offers chilly excitement any time of the year. The arena has an indoor skating rink that hosts sessions for figure skating, sticks and pucks, open hockey, and public skating. You can also sign up for skating lessons if you’re new to the ice. Those interested in sports on the rink can join a hockey league. The Pro Shop off the lobby has everything you’ll need to enjoy your visit, including figure skates, recreational skates, apparel, and skate-sharpening services.

On the second floor of the arena, you’ll find the Player’s Restaurant & Bar, which offers indoor and seasonal outdoor dining. You can explore a selection of classic American eats to help you fuel up for your time on the ice.

Location: 63 Fields Lane, Brewster.

Hours: 3:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekdays and 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. on weekends.

Enjoy American Fine Dining at Southeast Grillehouse

Southeast Grillehouse has proudly served the Brewster community for more than two decades. The lunch menu features a variety of decadent midday indulgences, such as pan-roasted salmon salad, sliced hanger steak in a merlot demi-glace, linguine and shrimp, and stuffed portobello sandwiches.

For dinner, you’ll find many of the same selections in larger portions, plus an expanded entree selection that includes homemade vegetable ravioli, chicken Napoleon, and more. Southeast Grillehouse elevates simple favorites to a new level with rich flavors, such as boneless pork chops with maple, apple, and walnut. Be sure to try the lemon chicken sauteed in egg batter and served in a lemon chardonnay sauce. Even the English fish and chips comes with a sophisticated red pepper remoulade. You can find something suited to almost every taste.

Location: 2459 Route 6, Brewster.

Hours: Lunch from noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Dinner from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Open from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

Explore the Sam and Myra Ross Farm & Wildlife Center

On the Brewster campus of the Green Chimneys School, you’ll find the Sam and Myra Ross Farm & Wildlife Center. This facility houses over 300 animals. You can meet farm animals such as cows, pigs, goats, rabbits, llamas, alpacas, sheep, and chickens. The horse barn is home to miniature horses, miniature donkeys, Mediterranean donkeys, horses, a Shetland pony, and a camel. You can also view a host of resident wildlife, including a bald eagle, gyrfalcons, owls, emus, turkeys, geese, ducks, and a porcupine. This is a great weekend adventure for families.

Location: 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on weekends.

Take in Brewster History at the Southeast Museum

The Southeast Museum features exhibits that highlight the distinctive history of the region. You can learn about the Harlem Line Railroad, Borden Milk Condensery, Tilly Foster Mine, American Circus, and more. The museum is in the historic Old Town Hall, dating back to 1896. Have you ever been curious about the life and times of New York residents in the 19th century? If you have, this destination is an essential stop. The museum illuminates the era through permanent and temporary exhibits featuring antique clothing and household items from centuries past.

Location: 67 Main St., Brewster.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.

Dine at Tilly’s Table

Tilly’s Table serves the distinctive flavors of the region with authentic farm-to-table dining. Enjoy dishes such as grilled free-range chicken breast, organic roasted beet salad, or herb and wild mushroom crusted beef tenderloin with seasonal local vegetables. Tilly’s also serves an outstanding brunch with bottomless mimosas. Check the calendar for special events, including live music and comedy nights.

Location: 100 New York State Route 312, Brewster.

Hours: 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Sunday.

What are your favorite destinations in Brewster? Contact our team at Brewster Ford and let us know. We’d like to have all the best local recommendations for our customers so we can point them toward an exciting adventure as they drive off our lot in their brand-new Ford.

Photo Credit: Image by  Haseeb Jamil  is licensed with Unsplash License

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If you’re looking for a capable vehicle for your next family vacation, Ford built the 2023 Explorer with adventure in mind. The Explorer is an accommodating three-row SUV that can carry your whole family on weekend excursions near and far. Sometimes you need to tow a trailer or other cargo.

After all, the Brewster area is close to several lakes and state parks where boating or camping might be on your weekend agenda. So you might wonder if the 2023 Ford Explorer can tow a trailer to help you with your family’s adventures. Read below as our team at Brewster Ford looks at a few of the 2023 Explorer’s specs.

2023 Ford Explorer Towing Capacity

The towing capacity for a 2023 Ford Explorer depends on the trim level and options you select. More specifically, the powertrain and drivetrain you choose determine how much your Explorer can tow. A quick overview reveals the following towing capacities:

Powertrain Options	Towing Capacity
2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4	5,300 pounds
3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6	5,600 pounds
3.3-liter V-6 Hybrid	5,000 pounds

 

So to answer the question that started it all, yes, you can tow a trailer with a 2023 Ford Explorer. If you’re looking to pull a camper, the average weight for a 26-foot travel trailer is between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, so even the Explorer with the lowest towing capacity can take such a trailer for a cruise. If boating is your goal, an Explorer can tow a small fishing boat, cuddy cabin, pontoon boat, bow rider, or something similar, all of which average from 1,500 to 5,000 pounds.

2023 Ford Explorer Trim Levels

The 2023 Ford Explorer comes in eight trim levels to meet your needs. The trim levels in order of least expensive to most expensive are as follows:

• Base.
• XLT.
• ST-Line.
• Limited.
• Timberline.
• ST.
• Platinum.
• King Ranch.

If you’re interested in learning about all the available options for these trim levels, check out our model showroom, where you can build your Explorer to your desired specifications.

2023 Ford Explorer Performance

The 2023 Ford Explorer has three engine options. The Base, XLT, Timberline, and Limited trim levels come standard with a 300-hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine, which has more than enough power for most of your needs. The ST-Line, ST, Platinum, and King Ranch trim levels boost the performance level up a bit with a 400-hp twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 engine. Rounding out the group is the hybrid engine, a 3.3-liter V-6 with an electric motor available on the Limited and Platinum models.

Most trim levels come standard with rear-wheel drive, although four-wheel drive is optional. The only trim level with standard four-wheel drive is the Timberline.  All trim levels have a 10-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy varies depending on the engine and drivetrain you choose. Combined estimates range from 20 mpg on the base engine’s four-wheel-drive configuration to 27 mpg on the hybrids with rear-wheel drive.

2023 Ford Explorer Trailer Tow Package

Ford knows that drivers looking at an Explorer might be interested in towing. With enough room for up to eight passengers, plenty of cargo space, and off-road capabilities, Ford made the 2023 Explorer for rugged outdoor exploits. With each trim level, you can add a Class IV Trailer Tow Package to help get you tow-ready as soon as you leave the lot.

The Class IV Trailer Tow Package’s main feature is a frame-mounted hitch with trailer connections. A frame-mounted hitch is the best way to help your SUV reach maximum towing capacity. The installed trailer connections make it easy to connect your trailer to your SUV’s electrical system to ensure taillights, turn signals, and brake lights are all in working order.

The tow package also includes trailer sway control, allowing you to maintain control no matter what situation arises. Trailer sway control works with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Ford’s electronic stability control system, to selectively brake and adjust engine power to help you maintain control of your trailer.

2023 Ford Explorer Additional Features

While towing might be a priority, it’s certainly not all that the 2023 Ford Explorer offers. Ford designed this SUV with both comfort and convenience in mind, offering various features that promote smooth and easy travel for you as the driver and your passengers.

You and your front-seat passengers can enjoy generous legroom and a wide windshield that provides ample viewing to take in the sites around Brewster. Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control allows your front-seat and second-row passengers to select the temperature that best suits their needs. A power-folding second-row seat makes it as easy as pushing a button to access the third-row seats.

Thanks to Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 technology, you can feel secure in controlling this SUV. This impressive driver assistance technology suite includes standard automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, a blind-spot information system, a lane-keeping system, a rear backup camera, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features include rear parking sensors, available front parking sensors, a 360-degree camera with a split-view display, and reverse brake assist.

If you’re concerned about staying connected while on the road, the 2023 Ford Explorer has you covered. A 10.1-inch touch-screen infotainment system comes standard, which includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Every trim level except the Base model includes an impressive Bang & Olufsen sound system with an HD radio that includes 12 speakers and a subwoofer.

2023 Ford Explorer Bottom Line

The 2023 Ford Explorer is a versatile three-row SUV that can carry you and your family on your next great adventure. With enough power and towing capacity for travel trailers and boats, the Explorer is a great option if towing is in your plans. A well-equipped interior includes all the comforts and conveniences you’ve come to expect from Ford vehicles.

If you’re interested in taking a look at a 2023 Ford Explorer, check out our latest inventory online to see what’s available. Be sure to take a look at our special offers   to find some of the best deals in the Brewster area. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us today.

Photo Credit: Image via OEM

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Do you want to buy an SUV that will be big enough to fit you and all your family members? Then you should consider going with a 2023 Ford Explorer. The 2023 Ford Explorer is one of the most spacious SUVs on the market today, making it the perfect choice for drivers who want to seat large families comfortably. So, how many seats does the 2023 Ford Explorer have? And how much cabin space will you and your family have in the interior of one? Our team at Brewster Ford has put together this guide so you can find out more.

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You probably understand how important it is to check your oil and change it regularly. You may not realize that it’s just as important to check your transmission fluid. If you don’t keep a close eye on it, you might find yourself in a position where it’s either very low on it or even completely out. That’s why you should make it your mission to check your transmission fluid occasionally.

We should point out that many modern-day vehicles have sealed-for-life transmissions, which means you can’t access the transmission fluid. Luckily, the highly trained and professional team at Brewster Ford’s service center will be able to work on your transmission for you.

Today, we will explain why your car must always have the right amount of transmission fluid in it. We’ll also discuss how to check your transmission fluid level without much effort. Finally, we’ll tell you what you should do when it’s time to replace your transmission fluid. Keep reading to get the information you need.

Why Is Transmission Fluid Important?

The oil you put into your car’s engine lubricates all its parts and keeps them working as they should. It also keeps your engine cool while your car is running. Transmission fluid does the same thing for your car’s transmission. It’ll lubricate all the different bearings and other moving metal parts within your transmission and prevent them from getting too warm.

You shouldn’t drive around in your car with low transmission fluid. Without enough transmission fluid in your vehicle, it could seriously damage your transmission and result in costly repairs. It could even force you to part ways with a car ahead of schedule simply because you didn’t take the time to check on your transmission fluid.

What Can Happen If You’re Low on Transmission Fluid or Run Out of It?

If your car is low on transmission fluid and you continue driving it around, you might not notice any changes right away. But it won’t take too long before you see signs that your car doesn’t have enough transmission fluid. Here are several signs that should be on your radar:

• Trouble shifting from one gear to the next.
• Slipping or jumping gears.
• Acceleration delays.
• Strange grinding sounds.

Eventually, you might also experience total transmission failure. If things get to this point, you’ll have no choice but to replace your entire transmission or consider getting a new car altogether.

How Often Should You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

When it comes to your car’s oil, you should check it about once a month to see where it stands. While doing so, you should also check your transmission fluid to ensure it’s acceptable. You might be able to get away with doing it less often, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry. The last thing you want to do is put off checking your transmission fluid for months on end and pay the price for it.

How Do You Check Your Transmission Fluid?

We will give you a basic breakdown of the steps needed to check your transmission fluid. But before doing that, we want to emphasize that you should always refer to the owner’s manual for your specific vehicle before checking your transmission fluid. It’ll provide you with valuable information, such as the location of your transmission fluid dipstick. It might also give you more in-depth instructions on checking the transmission fluid in your particular make and model car.

Generally speaking, you’ll take the same steps when checking the transmission fluid in most vehicles. Here are the steps you’ll need to take to see how much transmission fluid is in your car at any given time:

1. Park your car on a level surface and pop the hood.
2. Look for the dipstick for your transmission fluid (it should have a transmission symbol to differentiate it from your oil dipstick).
3. Start your car and allow it to idle.
4. Remove the dipstick for your transmission fluid, wipe it off with a clean rag, put it back into place, and remove it again.
5. See where the transmission fluid lands on the dipstick (there are typically “full,” “low,” and “fill” lines that will be on it)
6. Look at what color your transmission fluid is (It should be reddish-pink and not a dark brown or black color).
7. Put the dipstick for your transmission fluid back and close the hood of your car.

What Should You Do If Your Transmission Fluid Is Low?

If you check the transmission fluid in your car and find that it’s low, this usually indicates that you leak. In that case, you’ll want to do more than add transmission fluid to it. You will want to schedule a vehicle transmission service so a mechanic can determine what’s happening. They should be able to pinpoint the source of a transmission fluid leak and fix it so that you can return your transmission fluid to the required level.

Contact Us To Schedule Transmission Service for Your Vehicle

Did you recently check your transmission fluid and discover it’s on the low side? Or did you check it and find it’s darker than it should be? Either way, Brewster Ford can help you get to the bottom of your transmission troubles. Get in touch with us today to schedule transmission service at our state-of-the-art service center on Route 22 in Brewster, New York. If your transmission is beyond repair or you simply decide it’s time to purchase a new vehicle, check out our online inventory to find the perfect replacement.

Photo Credit: transmission dipstick 1 by schwartz.mark is licensed with CC BY 2.0

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Your pet is a treasured part of your family. From regular veterinary appointments to emergency care, it’s important to know where you can take your pet when they need medical assistance. Fortunately, the Brewster, New York, area has several outstanding options that you can choose from. Here are a few of the best local picks.

Brewster Veterinary Hospital

Brewster Veterinary Hospital is well-equipped to handle all of your pet’s needs. The facility includes a surgery suite, X-ray and ultrasound equipment, and an in-house laboratory that’s equipped for urinalysis, serology, serum chemistry, hematology, and parasite testing. Brewster collaborates with commercial veterinary laboratories for specialized testing and sampling procedures. The on-site pharmacy is stocked with everything from medications to heartworm preventatives and prescription pet food.

All of your pet’s needs can be taken care of here, including routine dental cleanings, bathing services, diagnostic tests, and dietary and behavioral counseling, to solve any issues that your pet may have. If your pet needs emergency care, you can contact the clinic after hours for information on how to best handle the situation. The hospital has indoor kennels with outdoor walking areas for pets that need boarding. You can drop off and pick up your animals anytime during regular operating hours.

Location: 3455 Danbury Road, Brewster.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Guardian Veterinary Specialists

Guardian Veterinary Specialists provides emergency care and advanced veterinary specialty services 24 hours a day so pet owners can always get the assistance they need. The spacious 29,000-square-foot facility includes 14 exam rooms, three surgery suites, a dedicated chemotherapy area, an isolation ward, and an intensive care unit. The building even has a rehabilitation area complete with a therapy pool.

The on-site diagnostic facilities mean that they can quickly and accurately diagnose any issue. The hospital provides access to digital X-ray, ultrasound, computer tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and fluoroscopy tests, as well as a full diagnostic laboratory. When pets need to stay in the hospital, they’re thoughtfully catered to. Feline guests have a separate waiting room and inpatient ward, so they don’t have to mix with canine visitors. You can spend time with your animal in a private visiting room while they’re staying on-site.

Location: 4 Hardscrabble Heights, Brewster.

Hours: 24/7.

Southeast Animal Hospital

You can get all the services and solutions you need for your pet’s health at Southeast Animal Hospital. Whether you have a dog, cat, fish, or exotic animal, this facility can help. Southeast Animal Hospital even offers limited medical services for large animals. They provide preventative care, dental treatment, and diagnostics, including digital X-rays, ultrasounds, and an in-house laboratory. Southeast Animal Hospital can handle soft tissue surgeries, such as spaying, neutering, mass removal, and gastrointestinal procedures, as well as orthopedic surgery from a board-certified surgeon by special appointment.

If you need to go out of town, Southeast Animal Hospital can board dogs, cats, and exotics. The veterinarians also offer house calls when you can’t get to the clinic and compassionate end-of-life services when needed.

Location: 1535 Route 22, Brewster.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Putnam Animal Wellness

Taking regular care of your pet is as important as getting regular auto maintenance, which is why Putnam Animal Wellness specializes primarily in routine services. You’ll find the Putnam Animal Wellness clinic housed inside Pet Kraze Brewster. The clinic offers basic pet care, including well and sick visits, vaccine clinics, spay and neuter services, and weekly dental clinics.

There’s an in-house pharmacy, surgery suite, and hospitalization area. Putnam Animal Wellness works with nearby specialty practices and external laboratories as needed to make sure every animal gets comprehensive care.

Location: 100 Independent Way, Brewster.

Hours: Noon to 5 p.m. Monday, noon to 7 p.m. Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Roosevelt Veterinary Center

Roosevelt Veterinary Center offers medical services for small animals backed by both Eastern and Western philosophies. You can get lifelong care for your pets, from puppy and kitten packages for routine vet appointments and vaccinations to wellness care, dental services, diagnostics, imaging, and surgery. This hospital offers spay and neuter services, mass removal, intestinal surgery, biopsies, and amputations.

The Roosevelt Veterinary Center even offers acupuncture as an alternative pain treatment. Nutritional counseling can help pet owners naturally treat skin issues or prevent obesity. If it’s time for end-of-life care, these veterinarians offer both in-clinic and at-home euthanasia.

If you need someone to care for your pet while you’re away, you can check them into the Roosevelt Mansion. This pet hotel has a spacious outdoor dog park and private kennels with off-the-floor bedding. If you’re simply busy during the day, you can check your pet in for doggy daycare between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Location: 2001 Route 22, Brewster.

Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Comforting Care Veterinary Services

Comforting Care Veterinary Services offers at-home services for clients in Putnam, Westchester, and southern Duchess counties, as well as in-office services at the Brewster clinic. Dr. Walling is the primary provider at this veterinary care center and specializes in helping pet owners through difficult times, such as hospice and palliative care.

Services include at-home pain management for pets with terminal illnesses and palliative care to keep older pets comfortable after surgery or when dealing with chronic pain. Dr. Walling is certified in veterinary medical acupuncture, so you can even explore this therapy as a pain management solution for your animal. When necessary, Dr. Walling will also provide at-home euthanasia that first with your schedule, with options for weekend and evening appointments.

Location: 4005 Danbury Road, Suite 3, Brewster.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Do you know of a great veterinary clinic that we missed? Contact our team at Brewster Ford and let us know so that we can add it to our list.

Photo Credit: Image by Karsten Winegeart is licensed with Unsplash License

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If you’re considering purchasing a new SUV for getting around in Brewster, New York, safety, comfort, or technology features might mean a lot to you. You also want to ensure it can endure your long trips to and from work. The 2023 Ford Explorer is an excellent pick if you do a lot of driving. It comes with a range of large gas tanks. Many other positives, such as its ability to tow a trailer, serve as a welcome bonus.

The Ford Explorer offers fuel economy ratings that are on par with those in its segment, with competitive performance. If you spend much time on the road, you may wonder how much gas the Ford Explorer can hold in its tank. Read below as our team provides the answer and guides you through the Explorer’s fuel efficiency, towing capacity, driver assistance technology, and other important features. And be sure to browse our inventory or contact us at Brewster Ford to take advantage of any available 2023 Ford Explorer special offers and discounts.

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The tires on your Brewster, New York, vehicle can influence steering, acceleration, and braking. Tire rotation moves tires from wheel to wheel to help prevent wear. It can extend the life spans of your tires, keep them performing well for a longer time, and improve safety for you and your passengers. Here’s more information about the benefits of tire rotations, how often you should rotate your tires, and signs that you might need a tire rotation.

What Are the Benefits of Tire Rotations?

Tire rotation is part of regular maintenance for cars, trucks, and SUVs. Since the front tires turn when you turn the steering wheel, they usually wear faster than the rear tires. With most vehicles, the engine is in the front as well. This makes the front part of the vehicle heavier and contributes to tire wear.

Regular tire rotation can help prevent wear and keep your vehicle maneuverable and responsive. It can increase your comfort and help give you and your passengers a smooth ride. Rotating your tires can also prevent dangerous blowouts and alignment or balancing issues. It helps tire treads stay in good condition, and the higher traction keeps fuel efficiency at its best. It also helps prevent hydroplaning on wet roads, losing traction on gravel, or slipping on ice.

Rotating your tires can also extend their life spans and help you save money on repairs. Without regular rotation, you could replace your front tires thousands of miles sooner than the back tires. Uneven tire wear can increase safety risks and make handling your vehicle tougher, especially in bad weather. When you rotate your tires regularly, you can save time when you’re ready for new tires by buying and replacing four at once.

Saving receipts for each tire rotation can help you keep many tire warranties valid. Many tire companies will pay for some or all of the cost of a new tire if a current one fails while still in warranty. However, they often require maintenance receipts to honor the warranty. If you use your vehicle for business, you can also use these receipts to deduct maintenance costs when you do your taxes.

How Often Should You Rotate Your Tires?

You should rotate the tires for most vehicles every 5,000 to 8,000 miles. You can find more specific recommendations from the manufacturer in your owner’s manual. Many people have their tires rotated and get other types of tire service if needed simultaneously as an oil change. The professionals at Brewster Ford will also:

• Check your tires for damage.
• Check the air pressure and add air if needed.
• Measure tread depth and let you know if you need new tires.
• Rebalance tires to reduce vibrations if necessary.
• Rotate the tires on trailers.

If you have a full-size spare tire with the same speed specifications and load capabilities as your other tires, keep it in rotation with your other tires. That way, it’ll have about the same amount of wear as your other tires, and your vehicle will be safer and more maneuverable when you need to use your spare tire.

You don’t need to rotate temporary spare tires. They often have a T on the sidewall and are smaller and lighter than full-size tires. If you need a temporary spare tire, replace it with a full-size tire as soon as possible.

What Are Some Signs Your Vehicle Might Need a Tire Rotation?

Tire rotations are inexpensive; getting your tires rotated more often than the minimum amount won’t harm your tires or vehicle. It’s a good idea to go ahead and get a tire rotation if you notice any of these signs:

Uneven Tire Wear

The outer edges of your front tires often wear more quickly than your rear tires because of turning and the engine’s weight. This is especially common with front-wheel-drive vehicles. It’s a good idea to check your tires every few thousand miles and have them rotated if you notice uneven wear. Uneven tire wear can also lead to more vibrations or bumpiness when you drive. If the wear is too extensive, you may need to replace your front or all four tires.

Low Tire Pressure

Uneven tire wear can also cause a leak in a tire and low tire pressure. Most vehicles have a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) with a light in the driver information center near the speedometer and fuel gauge. If your TPMS light comes on, check your tire’s air pressure or have a professional do it. Then, add more air if needed.

Poor Traction and Hydroplaning

Tire tread contains grooves to help channel away water, prevent hydroplaning, and stay in contact with the road, even in wet weather. Worn treads can lead to hydroplaning and poor traction, making steering and avoiding obstacles difficult. Driving with worn treads is especially challenging in snow, gravel, dirt, or mud.

Excess Heat

In dry conditions, the grooves between tire treads provide ventilation and help keep tire temperatures from becoming too high. Worn treads can lead to high tire temperatures, leaks, or dangerous tire blowouts.

Tire Rotation Patterns

There are several different patterns you can use to rotate your tires. With front-wheel drive, people usually choose a forward cross pattern. The rear wheels cross and become the new front wheels, and the old front wheels become the new rear wheels. A double-X rotation pattern works with many vehicles. It switches the right tires with the left and the front tires with the back tires.

Four- and rear-wheel-drive cars, trucks, and SUVs often use a rearward cross pattern. The rear tires go straight to the front, and the front tires move to the back and the opposite sides.

For your next tire rotation, contact us at Brewster Ford. We’re a certified Ford auto service center, and our expert technicians have many years of experience. Our service department is open on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Photo Credit: Image by jofo2005 is licensed with CC BY-ND 2.0

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If you’re searching for a new vehicle, you have many options for transmissions. Your options may include manual, continuously variable, and automatic transmissions, each with different benefits. In this article, we’ll discuss what a manual transmission (MT) is and examine the benefits of equipping your car with one. When you’re ready to drive a new Ford car, SUV, or truck, stop by Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York.

What Is a Manual Transmission?

An MT, a standard transmission or a manual gearbox, is a multi-speed motor vehicle transmission system that lets you choose between different gear ratios to operate the vehicle. A lower gear offers more torque at the vehicle’s wheel but less speed, whereas a higher gear ratio offers less torque but more speed.

Manual Transmission vs. Automatic Transmission

An MT relies on you to use the gear and clutch to accelerate. An automatic transmission, however, changes to different gears on its own rather than you having to make the adjustments yourself.

Most car MTs allow you to choose any gear ratio at any time. For example, you can shift from second to fourth gear or from fifth to third gear. However, sequential MTs, typically used in racing cars and motorcycles, only allow you to choose the next-lower or next-higher gear.

Benefits of Manual Transmission Vehicles

Here are some of the benefits of owning a manual vehicle:

Better Gas Mileage

Owning a manual vehicle comes with better gas mileage, possibly increasing fuel efficiency by around 55 to 10%. Although most automatic cars manufactured today are more fuel-efficient, manual vehicles give you more authority over how much you want to save without compromising on either performance or the driving experience.

An automatic vehicle has a torque converter and a hydraulic pump, likely increasing fuel consumption. On the contrary, a manual vehicle offers better gas mileage, as you can efficiently control the engine’s revolutions per minute by keeping it low while still being able to upshift. You can improve your gas mileage according to your driving style.

Cheaper To Buy

A manual vehicle from Ford dealers in your area will likely be around $1,000 cheaper than its automatic counterpart. Certified pre-owned vehicles that have an MT are likely to sell for even cheaper. Whether you choose a Ford Bronco, Ford Mustang, or Ford Ranger, the manual versions of these vehicles are less likely to sell compared with their automatic counterparts. Many people today don’t know how to drive a vehicle with an MT, making these options cheaper since dealerships need to get them off the lot.

More Power

An automatic transmission is designed to shift in a basic way that doesn’t use all its engine’s power. This is fine for the average driver, but more serious drivers prefer an MT to take advantage of the engine’s power thanks to more exact and specific transmission shifts. This can also help increase the fuel economy of the vehicle.

More Control and Fewer Distractions

You have more control over the behavior of your vehicle’s gearbox, making the driving experience more enjoyable for you due to the responsiveness and control it gives you. It’s important to listen to the engine whenever you drive a manual vehicle since the downshifts and upshifts are up to you. Shifting an automatic transmission can be reasonably unpredictable, as it relies on the computer and torque converter to shift gears.

Notably, most newer vehicle models have paddle shifters that create the simulated ratio for choosing gears. Controlling the clutch, however, is not possible. A stick shift provides you with more than just transmission. An MT greatly increases your control regarding braking, as you can control the clutch, which proportionately distributes the torque necessary.

Cheaper To Maintain

Whether used or brand new, a manual vehicle is often cheaper than an automatic one for repairs and maintenance. Several things can go wrong in an automatic due to a transmission failure. An automatic may be efficient, but if you consider the problems resulting from additional sensors, machinery, technology, and electrical parts, these could potentially equal more repair costs.

An MT, on the other hand, is simple. The most common issue you’ll have with a manual is the clutch. A clutch can last for hundreds of thousands of miles or several years. This simplicity in stick shift vehicles comes with minimal repair and maintenance costs.

If you suspect your Ford’s transmission is not performing properly or have any queries about preventive transmission maintenance, contact us. We at Brewster Ford have Ford-certified technicians who provide quality service, repair, and maintenance. With many years of experience, our technicians have completed advanced training and are confident working on any Ford model you own.

Less Likely To Get Stolen

Since automatic vehicles came to the market, people have overlooked how to drive a manual. There are now more automatics on the roads than you can imagine, and many people today have no idea how to drive manual vehicles. A vehicle with an MT could deter any car thief intending to steal your vehicle due to a lack of familiarity. While it may not be an issue, they will probably rethink driving it. This perception can easily discourage someone from borrowing or stealing your vehicle.

Self-Starting

With a manual car, you don’t need to depend as heavily on the battery to start the vehicle. This can be very helpful if your vehicle’s battery is weak and there’s no one around to jump-start your vehicle. You can give the vehicle a rolling start — once you are moving, you can put the vehicle in gear and release the clutch, which should start.

Learn More About Transmissions at Brewster Ford

Consider visiting our dealership if you’d like to test-drive a Ford model with an MT. We are located at 1024 Route 22, Brewster, New York. Our highly trained sales team is ready to walk you through the available transmissions of various Ford models. Please stop by to find out how our finance center makes the car loan process stress-free, or reach out to us online with any questions.

Photo Credit: Image by Sven D is licensed with Unsplash License

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With its rugged nature and eco-conscious efficiency, the fully electric 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning embodies the future of Ford. As a tried-and-true trailblazer, the new Ford Lightning continues to exceed the standards for all other electric vehicles (EVs). Not many vehicles can combine the seamless performance of an all-electric drivetrain and the rugged nature of a pickup. At Brewster Ford in Brewster, New York, our team of experts will provide you with all the information you need about the Ford Lightning to help you determine if this vehicle suits your lifestyle.

How Fast Can the Ford F-150 Lightning Charge?

Charging time has become a crucial part of EVs, and depending on the kind of charger you’re using and the type of vehicle you have, this time can greatly vary. As with other EVs, the 2023 Ford Lightning’s charge speed greatly depends on how and where you charge it. On average, however, charging the electric truck takes about 10 hours.

Ford’s standard package for the F-150 Lightning comes with a 32-amp mobile charger, which allows you to connect to a standard 120-volt outlet. Because of its low power output, you can expect the standard truck to go from 15% to 100% in around 76 to 80 hours. If you have the extended-range Ford Lightning, you can expect the vehicle to go from 15% to 100% in around 100 to 107 hours.

To get more efficient charging times, consider installing a better charger, such as the Ford Charge Station Pro. This charger comes free with the extended-range version of the Ford Lightning. The only reason not to invest in this kind of charger would be if it were impractical for your situation, such as if you don’t drive the vehicle every day or if you live in an apartment and you aren’t allowed to install one.

Otherwise, consider purchasing one of the better-charging units that Ford offers to make charging your vehicle a much easier and quicker task. Although it’s possible to charge and drive the Lightning using only a 120-volt outlet, it can take a lot of time on the charger and not a lot of time on the road.

How Many Miles Does a Charge Last on the 2023 Ford Lightning?

The Ford Lightning has two battery options that feed its motors: one is a standard-range battery, and the other is an extended-range battery. The standard-range battery has 98 kWh of usable capacity, which is good for 230 miles of range, while the extended-range battery has a massive 131 kWh of usable capacity. With this type of battery, the F-150 Lightning offers 320 miles of range, or 300 if you opt for the top-trim Platinum.

How Long Does It Take To Charge the Ford Lightning With a DC Fast Charger

The quickest way to fully charge EVs is by using a DC fast charger. With the Ford 150 Lightning, you can go from 15% to around 80% in less than an hour. With the Ford Lightning standard edition, the charging time would take around 45 minutes, while the extended-range version of the EV would only take about 40 minutes to go from 15% to about 80%.

Unfortunately, you can’t install a Level 3 DC charger at your home, as it uses a 440-volt DC power supply, which makes it dangerous in most residential houses. However, you can find one of these chargers at various EV charging stations.

How To Find Charging Stations When on the Road?

A few years ago, finding an EV charging station was no easy feat. Fortunately, today, it’s easier than ever to find charging stations near you. You can use different websites or mobile apps, such as FordPass or Google Maps, to quickly find a charging station in your area.

If you’re a member of an EV charging network, you likely already have an application on your smartphone to find compatible charging stations near you. The US Department of Energy also has a locator system (available on their website) you can use to find charging stations in your area. The system is also helpful if you have a car using biodiesel or other alternative fuels.

Why Do EVs Charge More Slowly After 80%?

An EV that charges more slowly after 80% is normal. It does this because the EV’s charger is restricting the battery’s charging speed to protect it from overheating. An EV’s battery will charge at a higher speed when it’s almost empty, as the charger is providing the complete current when the battery’s percentage is lower.

When it reaches around 80%, however, the current that the battery takes will decrease. This is because the heat your battery generates at this stage increases, unlike at the onset of charging. At this point, the battery’s ions need stabilization. Hence, the charger goes back to slow charging for the remaining 20%. This allows your battery to perform at the optimal level and preserves its health and lifespan.

Ford recommends not keeping your EV charged at 100%, as it can reduce your battery’s lifespan. With lithium-ion batteries, you can keep them charged at around 60% to 80% of their maximum charge; this is where the ions and electrons are usually balanced, which can extend your battery’s lifetime usage. Ford also recommends not going into deep discharge, which means you should try to stay above 20%. Going below this level can damage your battery if done repeatedly.

Get Behind the Wheel of the All-New Ford F-150 Lightning at Brewster Ford

If you’re ready to take a closer look at the F-150 Lightning, reach out to us today. At Brewster Ford, we’ll provide you with all the information you need about the Ford Lightning’s suggested retail price, trim levels, and new design features for the model of your choice. What are you waiting for? Be among the first to own the all-new Ford Lightning. Contact us, call us at (845)205-7019 today or visit our dealership at 1024 Route 22 in Brewster, New York.

Photo Credit: Image by Cyrus Crossan is licensed with Unsplash License

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Brewster, New York, and the surrounding areas are ideal for getting outside and enjoying nature as the weather warms up. If you’re looking for the perfect place to take your family for a memorable weekend escape, we have just the lineup you’re after. These petting zoos and farms provide entertaining experiences and exciting opportunities for hands-on fun, such as feeding bunnies, brunching with donkeys, collecting eggs, or taking pony rides.

Sam and Myra Ross Farm and Wildlife Center

The Sam and Myra Ross Farm and Wildlife Center is part of the innovative Green Chimney School. The paddocks, barns, and wildlife areas are open to the public free of charge. Simply park in the Otter Lot across from campus and stroll over for a fun afternoon of exploration.

The farm and wildlife center is home to over 300 animals. In the Teaching Barn, you’ll find domestic farm animals, including pigs, chickens, rabbits, sheep, llamas, alpacas, goats, cows, and homing pigeons. The Horse Barn houses nearly a dozen full-size horses, as well as miniature horses, miniature donkeys, Mediterranean donkeys, a Shetland pony, and a camel.

Venture over to the Wildlife Center, and you can see an abundance of majestic residents who are part of the wildlife rehabilitation program and can no longer live in the wild. The wildlife habitat includes a bald eagle, falcons, hawks, owls, emus, turkeys, ducks, geese, herons, and even a porcupine. You can drop in on weekends to say hello to all of these residents and more. If you fall in love with the farm, you can sign up for volunteer opportunities as well.

Location: Brewster Campus, 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, New York

Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays

Tilly Foster Farm

The Tilly Foster Farm is a vibrant working farm with small animals, abundant working gardens, and a hiking trail. The farm is open for self-guided tours from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. You can stop by and visit charming animals, such as Kunekune pigs, Huacaya alpacas, and miniature horses. The farm also has several different chicken breeds, including Silkies, Red Stars, Australorps, Ameraucanas, Frizzles, Cochin Bantams, and more.

A mile-long trail runs through the Tilly Foster Farm, offering a picturesque stroll. It begins at the pond by the community gardens and takes you across fields 6, 7, and 8 before meandering off into the woods. An optional loop adds more length to your journey.

If you fall in love with the picturesque plots that make up the community gardens, you can reserve one for yourself at a rate of $40 for the first plot and $35 for each additional plot. The gardens are available for organic gardening only. The plots measure 20’ x 20’ and receive irrigation from a central well and surrounding spigots. A 10-foot deer fence protects the garden.

Location: 100 Route 312, Brewster, New York

Hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily

Hemlock Hill Farm

The Hemlock Hill Farm offers a boutique experience where you can connect with the animals in a quiet setting with few people and minimal distractions. This is nothing like larger commercial farms and petting zoos. Experiences are available by reservation only so you can arrange the perfect visit for you and your party. Hemlock Hill Farm offers four options:

• Brunch with rescued donkeys: Enjoy a delightful spread of snacks in the picnic grove beside the donkey pasture while you commune with the donkeys and horses throughout your leisurely morning.
• Hot chocolate and s’mores on the farm: Gather around the campfire and enjoy s’mores and a hot chocolate bar alongside the donkeys and horses.
• Farm experience: The farm experience gives you a taste of daily life on the farm. You can feed the chickens, goats, horses, and donkeys, collect eggs, and get to know all the residents.
• Celebrations on the farm: Book your party on the farm and enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience that’s perfect for a birthday, bridal shower, anniversary, or other celebration.

If an afternoon on the farm just isn’t enough, you can go glamping at Hemlock Hill. You’ll have access to a spacious tent, double bed, heated blanket, propane grill and stove, table, chairs, and smokeless fire pit. A sink, solar shower, and outhouse are available as well. This experience allows you to truly immerse yourself in the ambiance of the farm and unplug in a quiet and picturesque setting.

Location: 211 Youngblood Road, Montgomery, New York

Hours: By appointment

Abma’s Farm

Abma’s Farm is the only produce and poultry farm in Bergen County. This Dutch-style farm is over 200 years old and offers a rich sense of the property’s history. Spanning 32 acres, the farm features a barnyard petting zoo, greenhouses, and a market. The petting zoo is home to sheep, donkeys, alpacas, goats, ponies, pigs, and bunnies. You can purchase animal crackers to feed the sheep, alpacas, goats, and cows or carrot tops for the bunnies.

Admission is just $5 per person. Children under the age of two are free. On Wednesdays, you can enjoy Grandparent’s Day with free admission for grandparents. Kids can take a pony ride between May and October for an additional $6.

Stop at the farm market before you leave to pick up fresh produce, baked goods, homegrown honey, fresh eggs, milk, cheese, poultry, beef, and more to fill your fridge with delicious local foodstuffs. You can even find items from other local businesses, such as jams, jellies, salsas, dipping sauces, vinegar, pickles, and more. If you can’t wait for a taste, you can purchase ready-to-eat deli goods, including soups, salads, sandwiches, and buddha bowls.

The greenhouses are another must-see stop. They’re in full bloom from mid-March through December. You can purchase seasonal decor at any time of the year.

Location: 700 Lawlins Road, Wyckoff, New Jersey

Hours: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday

These are our top picks for farms and petting zoos around Brewster. Do you know of other prime destinations that we’ve missed? Contact our team at Brewster Ford and let us know! We want to have all the best suggestions in the area.

Photo Credit: Image by Patrick Fore is licensed with Unsplash License

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