With the weather warming up rapidly, we’re all feeling the call of the outdoors. There’s no season like springtime for reconnecting with the natural environment, and there are plenty of opportunities in Richmond, KY to get out into the wild. Here’s our list of spring activities that’ll make you feel closer to nature.
1. The Madison County Farmers Market
Held at 1238 Barnes Mill Road from mid-May onwards, the Madison County Farmers Market allows you to fully benefit from the best of spring’s bounty. Shop for the freshest fruit, vegetables, pasture-raised meat, free-range eggs, and homemade. Houseplants and flowers are also available. The market will run every Saturday morning from 9am to 1pm.
2. The Bluegrass River Run
This is your chance to view the 60ft cliffs of the Palisades to their most impressive advantage, with a 6-mile paddle down the Kentucky River on June 3. There’s plenty of room in the bed of your Ford F-150 to bring your own kayak, canoe, or paddle-board, but it’s also possible to hire them onsite.
The journey starts on the beach in Fort Boonesborough State Park at 4375 Boonesborough Road. Register online to join in and gain a new appreciation of springtime on the river.
3. Strawberry Picking at Day Farms
If there’s one thing that tells you that summer’s almost here, it’s the sweet taste of strawberries. Day Farms runs pick-your-own sessions once the strawberries are ripe, usually around mid-May. Located at 11414 Richmond Road, Paint Lick, this location gives you the chance to get out in the strawberry patch and gather as many as you can carry. Opening dates and hours are determined by the strawberries’ progress, so watch out for news!
4. Floracliffe Nature Sanctuary
There’s no better place to get close to nature than the 346 acres of the Inner Bluegrass region at the Floracliffe Nature Sanctuary. Located at 8000 Elk Lick Falls Road in Lexington, it can be accessed through workshops, programs, and guided walks, so check out the schedule and sign up online. May 13 sees a Herpetology Hike at 9am, where you’ll go hunting to find frogs, salamanders, and snakes, or there’s a Golden Hour Hike at 6:30pm on May 18.
5. Kids Fishing Derby
The first weekend of June is Free Fishing Weekend in Richmond, and the Kids Fishing Derby will give the children a chance to appreciate fishing as a sport, as well as the beauty of Lake Reba on a spring day. This annual will be held on June 3 at 299 Lake Reba Drive, and will feature free fishing, games, and prizes for anyone aged 16 and under.
Every springtime is special, so be sure to appreciate this one and enjoy the time outdoors. And while you’re exploring Richmond, don’t forget to stop by and see us at Gates Ford Lincoln to view our latest collection of new and used cars.
Does Your Ford Need an Alternator Repair?
Your Ford alternator is responsible for generating electricity for all your car’s systems and devices. It converts mechanical energy generated by the turning crankshaft into DC. Over time the alternator can become damaged or fail. If either of these events happens, it’s time to see your friendly Ford dealer for an alternator repair. These are a few signs your alternator could be in trouble.
Blown Fuses
All the electrical systems in your car have fuses, and these fuses work identically to the fuses in your home. The fuses are designed to absorb electrical shorts or rogue electrical charges to prevent damage to their attached system. A fuse will blow out, and the system it’s attached to will shut down until the fuse is replaced.
If the alternator fuse blows, this creates a problem for your car. The alternator will automatically shut down, cutting off the electrical supply to your car’s systems. The battery will take over in supplying electricity, but its storage capacity is very limited. A fully-charged battery will usually run down in less than an hour. We can easily test your fuses and replace a blown alternator fuse. Once this is done, your alternator will work normally.
Dim Lights
Dim headlights, dash lights, and cabin lights can all be signs of an alternator problem. When your engine is running, the alternator supplies power to all these systems. As an alternator gets older, it slowly weakens and produces less electricity. When this problem starts, it’s not immediately apparent as an alternator produces more power than your car’s systems require.
As the alternator steadily declines, the reduced electrical supply will become obvious. The limited supply of electricity forces your car’s computer to assign power to systems as required. When this happens, the computer will often assign just enough power to the lights to allow them to illuminate. We can easily test your alternator, and install a new one if necessary.
Weak Battery
The alternator charges your battery, and the battery provides the power to start your engine and maintain the electrical systems when your engine is switched off. The battery can fail due to age, but it can also fail due to a weakening alternator. It requires a large electrical charge to start your engine. This power should be replaced by the alternator as you drive.
As we’ve seen, the alternator gradually produces less electricity. This lack of electricity will impact the battery, as eventually, the alternator won’t be able to fully charge the battery. When this happens, your battery will become steadily weaker as it supplies more power than it can replace. We can easily test your alternator and replace it if it’s failing.
If you’re experiencing any problems with your alternator, call us right away at Gates Ford Lincoln.
Visiting a museum is a fascinating, educational, and enjoyable activity. Whether you’re looking for something to do near Richmond, KY, or searching for places to stop on a road trip, why not take the time to check out one of the best museums nearby?
The Richmond Battlefield
The Richmond Battlefield museum, located at 101 Battlefield Memorial Hwy in Richmond, is a great spot to learn the history of the Battle of Richmond, Kentucky, that occurred in 1862. Opened daily from 6 am to 8 pm, the park encompasses a 600-acre area and contains numerous historical sites, including; a courthouse, church, and three houses built in the 18th century.
Tour the park and visit the Roger House, a stately Federal-style home constructed in 1811 that serves as the museum’s visitors center, or attend the annual Civil War Reenactment event held every August for a taste of what life was like during the 1860s. With its interactive exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and passionate enthusiasm for preserving this vital part of America’s past, The Richmond Battlefield is truly a remarkable experience.
The Bluegrass Heritage Museum
The Bluegrass Heritage Museum, located a short distance from Richmond at 217 South Main Street in Winchester, KY, is open Monday through Saturday from 12:00 noon to 4:00 pm. You can find the Agriculture Exhibit that emphasizes the impactful role farming had on Winchester and Clark County’s economy.
Moreover, visitors can also explore the Military room, which pays homage to the soldiers who served in the American Revolutionary War and World War II. Furthermore, avid quilt enthusiasts will be delighted by the exhibitions of various quilts created in the early 19th century. Pick up a souvenir at the gift shop as a reminder of your trip to the museum!
Kentucky Music Hall of Fame
Established in 2022, The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame has already established itself as a popular attraction, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history of Kentucky’s music heritage. From bluegrass and country to rock and jazz, this museum showcases the music of all genres throughout every gallery. You can even interact with instruments and create your unique sounds!
To top it off, they host regular concerts at the amphitheater with a wooden stage featuring numerous local artists. Located at 2590 Richmond Street, Mt. Vernon, KY, a short road trip to The Kentucky Music Hall of Fame promises a pleasurable experience in your reliable 2023 Ford Bronco fitted with air conditioning and an impressive audio system with 6-speakers!
With high-quality collections and interactive displays, you can learn something new and have fun in these museums. If you have any questions and need help finding the right car, contact us today at Gates Ford Lincoln.
3 Signs Your Ford Needs a Transmission Repair
Transmissions are complex pieces of machinery that convert the power of your engine into energy to move the wheels. Your Ford transmission requires regular maintenance to keep it working efficiently. If your transmission isn’t working as effectively as it should, you may need a transmission repair at your Ford dealer. These are a few signs that your transmission needs to be checked.
Your Transmission Won’t Shift
This is one of the most extreme transmission problems, but it can also be one of the easiest to repair. Your transmission should shift smoothly on the instructions of your transmission computer. If your transmission refuses to shift, your car might not be able to move at all. If your transmission has limited movement, you may not be able to access higher gears.
Several issues, including a broken linkage, a failed solenoid, a low transmission fluid level, or a faulty transmission computer, can cause a shifting problem. Our technicians will need to examine your transmission to pinpoint the cause of the problem. A low level of transmission fluid, for example, can be quickly and easily rectified. A broken linkage can be replaced, as can a failed solenoid. Your transmission computer can also be updated if necessary.
Leaking Seal
A damaged or worn seal can cause a swift loss of transmission fluid. Transmission fluid is vital, as it enables your gears to shift. A lack of fluid will increase the temperature in the transmission. A leak will remove the friction-resistant coating provided by the fluid, and this causes damage to the gears and other transmission components.
The most common site of a leak is the transmission pan gasket. This gasket is attached to the bottom of the transmission pan and is designed to prevent any leak. If your transmission hasn’t been serviced for a while, this gasket can shrink, and fluid will escape. Our technicians will examine the transmission to find the source of the leak, and we’ll seal the leak.
Strange Noises
A Ford transmission is completely silent. If you suddenly hear grinding, humming, whining, or any unusual sound, your transmission has a problem. The transmission is strongly built and very durable, but a small problem can rapidly cause damage to its components. We advise calling our service department immediately if you hear any noises while you’re driving.
Our Ford-trained technicians are experts at repairing transmissions, and we’ll find the cause of the problem. Most strange sounds in the transmission relate to problems that can be easily repaired if they’re examined as soon as the problem appears.
If your transmission shows any of these signs, call us right away at Gates Ford Lincoln.
Getting a Brake Repair for Your Ford
The braking system in your Ford gives you control over your speed. It allows you to stop whenever and wherever you want. This system, however, requires regular services to keep it in good condition. Driving conditions, the environment, and heat and pressure in the system can all lead to damage. As your Ford dealer, we can repair any problem for you. These are signs that you may need a brake repair soon.
Burning Chemical Smell
If you smell a sickly chemical odor when you brake, this is a sign you have a brake problem. Brake fluid is essential for your brakes to provide the hydraulic power that enables the braking system to function. Brake fluid needs to be changed at regular intervals according to your car manual. If the fluid isn’t changed when it’s due, it will slowly develop problems.
The fluid gradually loses its heat-resistant properties. The pressure in the braking system will heat the fluid, which can start to burn. This produces a chemical smell. It’s important to visit us ASAP before this happens, as burnt brake fluid prevents your braking system from working.
Hard Brake Pedal
You always expect resistance when you step on the brake pedal, but not total resistance. A hard brake pedal is a situation where the brake pedal almost won’t move when you step on it. It requires far more effort than it should depress the pedal. This is dangerous, as it reduces your ability to stop suddenly should you need to.
The hard pedal is caused by the failure of the brake pedal booster. The booster uses a vacuum system to provide 10x human strength to engage the brakes. Any failure of the booster due to wear or damage can compromise the vacuum. If the vacuum is damaged, the booster won’t work. Our technicians can test the booster and install a new one if it’s damaged.
Braking Vibrations
If you feel a vibration through the pedal each time you brake, we need to check your rotors and brake pads. The most likely cause of this problem is worn brake pads. The heat from braking can liquify some of the adhesives on one of the worn pads. The liquid adhesive is then spread across the rotor.
The adhesive will dry very quickly but leaves an uneven surface on the rotor. More adhesive will be added to the surface each time you brake. The vibrations you feel are caused by a brake caliper grabbing an uneven rotor surface. We can replace the damaged pads and clean the rotor to fix the problem.
Worn or damaged brakes are dangerous. Call us today at Gates Ford Lincoln.
Image courtesy of Ford
In Richmond, KY, when the trees burst with fall colors, it’s time for pumpkins, apples, cider, and bonfires. So, get behind the wheel of a Ford EcoSport, Explorer, or Expedition and take the family to find all the best fall activities along the way.
1. The Millstone Festival
The Millstone Festival is a celebration of all things local and is held at the beginning of October in Richmond’s historic downtown district. Here, you’ll taste delicious harvest-time foods and beverages from local vendors and be entertained by the finest local talent.
The festival is great fun with a homebrew contest, a chili cook-off, a car show, and live music by favorite bands such as the Local Honeys, April with Whiskey River, Clark Kissick and Friends, and Vintage Voodoo on the Madison County courthouse lawn.
2. Pumpkins and More Harvest Festival
Joining the festivities at Baldwin Farms at 1113 Tates Creek Road in Richmond has been a favorite fall outing for many families in the area over the past 30 years. The festival runs continuously through October, and it’s tradition to head to the farm to pick the best pumpkins, winter squash, and gourds from the harvest, run through the corn maze, pet the farm animals, and climb Mt. Baldwin.
The farm sells crispy fresh produce, snacks, and beverages, and visitors can explore the farm in the saddle over weekends.
3. Evans Orchard and Cider Mill
Take a 38-mile drive to Georgetown for delicious fall produce and traditional family fun at Evans Orchard and Cider Mill at 198 Stone Road. The 300-acre farm spreads out over apple, peach, and pear orchards and vegetable patches that are fresh-picked and sold at the farm’s market.
Here you can also buy a wide selection of homemade jellies and jams, honey, and freshly pressed apple cider. The farm also welcomes you to pick your own apples, pears, and pumpkins from the second week in September onwards.
4. Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch
Go on a fall family outing between the beginning of September and the end of October to Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch at 623 Talmage-Mayo Road in Harrodsburg, 43 miles from Richmond. Go on hayrides, search for the biggest pumpkin in the patch, and find your way through ten acres of corn mazes. The fall fun gets bigger and better each year with a petting zoo, zip lines, gigantic jump pads, and cozy bonfires at night.
Load your family in a Ford, have a ball driving to all the great fall destinations packed with excitement, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Make a stop at Gates Ford Lincoln part of the fun and check out the lineup of new Ford models on display.
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A Driver’s Guide to the 2022 Ford Edge
The 2022 Ford Edge is a two-row SUV that looks as natural on city streets as it does on off-road trails. With an adaptable all-wheel-drive system and a cabin that seats as many as five, it’s the perfect excuse to set out for adventures with a group of friends or family. Combine this with advanced entertainment and safety features, as well as phenomenal engine performance, and it’s clear that this is one SUV that delivers something for everyone.
Performance
Giving the Edge plenty of get-up-and-go power are two powerful engine options: a 250-horsepower 4-cylinder and a 335-horsepower V6. The 4-cylinder comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 is paired with a seven-speed automatic.
To venture off-road, all models come with Intelligent AWD as a standard feature, which is capable of detecting and distinguishing different terrains while automatically adapting to them. For recreational drives with a trailer in tow, a 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity and Trailer Sway Control are also offered.
Design
Throughout the Edge’s sophisticated cabin, you’ll find many luxury amenities, like heated front and rear seats, a rotary gear shift dial, and ambient lighting. To make room for cargo, there’s a 60/40 split-folding seat available for the back and a cargo management system as well.
Outside the vehicle, many wheel sizes and distinctive styles are available, including a set of head-turning 20-inch black-painted wheels. Along with these comes the option of all-terrain tires, fog lamps, and adaptive headlights, so you’ll be ready for changing terrains and lighting conditions.
Technology
To keep everyone in the cabin entertained and connected there’s SYNC 4A. This infotainment system can be controlled with your hands, if using its dazzling touchscreen display, or your voice, if opting for the voice command feature.
If you need to charge laptops or smartphones while away from home, there are two 12-volt power outlets and a wireless charging pad available. For passengers sitting in the rear seats, the Dual Headrest DVD Entertainment System is sure to keep them busy on long road trips.
Safety
For safety on highways, both Pre-Collision Assist and the Blind Spot Information System complement each other by warning you of other vehicles that are either in your lane up ahead or approaching any of your blind spots.
The 180-degree camera system can help you visualize nearby obstacles on trails, while Enhanced Active Park Assist makes both perpendicular and parallel parking a breeze by steering the vehicle into tight spots after you give the go-ahead.
The 2022 Edge blends modern style with rugged versatility, making it one of the most popular Ford SUVs ever built. To see everything else it has to offer, contact us or stop in and see us at Gates Ford Lincoln today, and we’ll be here to answer any questions you might have about the Edge or any of our other vehicles.
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Dinner’s a Short Drive Away: 3 Great Take-Out and Delivery Restaurants Near Richmond, KY
Richmond, KY is famous throughout the state for its amazing food scene. Food from all across the globe can be found around town, and since the pandemic, most of these places now deliver. So, if you fancy giving your Ford Escape a night off after a week of running errands in it, then put your feet up and order some delivery food from some of these great delivery restaurants.
Apollo Pizza Emporium
When it comes to delivery food, pizza is always a crowd-pleaser, and Apollo Pizza Emporium is the best place in town to enjoy Italy’s most famous dish. The menu is huge and contains some truly decadent pizzas, including one named “The Charles” which comes with a whopping ten different toppings of your choice. Not only that, but the pizzas themselves are massive too, with sizes going right up to a gargantuan 20-inch crust.
As an Italian joint, it’s not just about the pizza here, as Apollo Pizza Emporium also rustles up some amazing Italian comfort meals including pasta, salads, and submarine sandwiches, Make sure to save some room for dessert too, as this place serves some delicious sweet items such as Reece’s Peanut Butter Pies and giant sundaes.
China King
Another classic when it comes to the delivery food scene, Chinese cuisine is always a great choice. With many dishes that are vegetarian as standard, China King is a great option for big families with diverse palates. The menu is extensive enough and dishes range from the hot and spicy Szechuan shrimp to the classic sweet and sour chicken, so everyone can find something that they’ll enjoy.
Koto Japanese Bistro
What could be better than Japanese food delivered straight to your door? In our opinion, it doesn’t get much better than sitting on the sofa in the comfort of your own home enjoying a pack of freshly prepared sushi from Koto Japanese Bistro. This authentic Japanese bistro serves a huge variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes that are sure to please everyone in your family. With a huge selection of appetizers too, this place is great for sharing.
With all these amazing options offering delivery in Richmond, it’s never been easier to relax, put on a movie, and have a night in with some great food. Whether you’re looking for classic Italian pizza or some delicious Japanese sushi, every restaurant on this list is sure to impress. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so drop by and visit us at Gates Ford Lincoln after your food to let us know how it went and you can check out our showroom of exciting new and used cars.
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4 Outstanding Features of the 2022 Ford F-150
The 2022 Ford F-150 is a powerful truck that merges premium-grade strength with superior intelligence and design. The vehicle comes in an array of eye-catching exterior colors, some of which include Antimatter Blue, Rapid Red, Race Red, Oxford White, and Iconic Silver. The vehicle also includes a number of outstanding features that we feel confident you’ll want to learn more about.
1. Numerous Fantastic Model Options
The 2022 F-150 comes in eight great model options: the XL, the XLT, the Lariat, the King Ranch, the Platinum, the Limited, the Tremor, and the Raptor. The XL is the least expensive model and includes key features like a rear view camera with Dynamic Hitch Assist and 17-inch silver steel wheels. The Limited is the most expensive model and includes key features like full-leather seats with Active Motion and LED mirror-mounted spotlights.
2. Phenomenal Power
This 2022 Ford boasts phenomenal power with its Pro Power Onboard that offers the best usable power on demand in its class. The vehicle has six diverse and effective engine options: the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 engine, the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine, the 5.0L TI-VCT V8 engine, the High-Output 3.5L EcoBoost engine, and the 3.3L TI-VCT V6 engine. All of these engines also have an advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.
3. Great Towing Capacity
4. Makes Being Productive Easy
With all of these practical and unique features, we wouldn’t be surprised if you feel the desire to check out the 2022 F-150 in person. Stop by Gates Ford Lincoln today and have a look at our inventory of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles! We do our best to make it easy for you to schedule service appointments, get quotes, apply for financing, or even perform a test drive. We look forward to seeing you soon and helping you find an amazing vehicle!
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When you are looking to plan your next big adventure, you will want to bring your Ford. The all-new 2022 Ford Escape is the perfect vehicle for a road trip. This compact SUV is very efficient, but you won’t have to compromise on space. Pack your things and prepare to embark on one of these exciting road trips from Richmond, KY.1. Pigeon Forge
Find delicious foods and entertaining shows. Find even more fun when you visit Ripley’s Attractions and enjoy the surrounding views from the top of the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel. If you want the ultimate Smokey Mountain adventure, consider a road trip to Pigeon Forge.
2. Mammoth Cave
3. The Outer Banks
Enjoy delicious seafood, find beautiful shells, and tour historic lighthouses. When you are ready to rest, you will be happy to learn that there are plenty of ways to stay. Choose from campgrounds, cabins, hotels, and other rentals. There are a variety of coastal towns to choose from, and you can make the experience your own. If you want the ultimate coastal road trip experience, check out the Outer Banks.
We wish you a pleasant journey. We would be pleased to assist you if you’re searching for a reliable car that is excellent for traveling. Contact us today at Gates Ford Lincoln, so we can help you find something you will adore.
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