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Keeping your brakes in tip-top shape is one of the most important things that you can do when it comes to caring for your vehicle. Brakes are something that we take for granted and don't really realize how important they are until there's an emergency. The difference between high-functioning and deteriorated brakes can be lifesaving. Here are some signs to look out for that will let you know it's time for brake service at your Ford dealer. more Ford Dealer: How Often Should You Get Brake Service for Your Ford? Your Vehicle Pulls Although all of your brake pads start out evenly, over time, it's natural for some to become eroded faster than others. When this has occurred, you might notice a jolt to either the left or right when you come to a stop. At first, you might think that you accidentally yanked the steering wheel in that direction, but the likely cause is that one side of your brake pads has become deteriorated. You'll want to have this serviced right away. Your Car Is Slow to Stop One of the immediate signs that you need your brakes replaced is when they aren't responding the way they should when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. This often occurs if you live in an area where you are constantly driving downhill. To stop your car from picking up too much speed, you will always have your foot on the brakes which will erode the friction between the brake pads and the rotor. Clicking Noises Your brake pads are put together by a variety of parts. Over a long period of time and through natural wear and tear, some of these parts may have become compromised. A worn-out bolt or a broken clip could result in a rattling or knocking sound. These are sounds that you don't want to hear. If you're noticing unfamiliar noises, trust your gut, and get your vehicle into the shop as soon as possible. High-Pitched Squealing That irritating high-pitched squealing sound should actually be music to your ears because it's your vehicle's way of letting you know that you need new brakes. All modern vehicles will have a built-in mechanism to sound the alarm when your brake pads have become too thin. This piece will grind on the rotor to create the unpleasant shriek to lead you to your mechanic. Brake Pedal Shaking Salt is meant for shaking but brake pedals are not. If you notice a vibration or feel like the pedal is shaking when you apply pressure or release the brakes, it's a red alert that you need service. What has likely happened is that the sticky stuff that holds your brakes together has become too thin and spread unevenly across your rotor. This will cause a shaking sensation that you will be able to notice immediately. Your brakes aren't something to take lightly. If you've noticed any of these symptoms, call Rochester Ford today and schedule an appointment with our experienced service team to get your car back on the road in no time.

Golf is a great way to spend time with friends or loved ones. It's also an excellent opportunity to explore the natural beauty of our world. Whether you are looking for a challenging course, scenic views, or just want to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine, there are many golf courses near Rochester, MN that will suit your needs. more 4 of the Best Golf Courses Near Rochester, MN 1. Rochester Golf & Country Club The Rochester Golf & Country Club is a fantastic place to begin. The course has 18 holes and plays at just over 6500 yards. It's also considered one of the longest courses near Rochester by most players around here. The course layout is a bit tricky, as there are lots of bunkers and water hazards to watch out for. So, if you're in the mood for a good challenge and don't mind playing around water hazards, this is the perfect course. 2. Soldiers Memorial Field Course The Soldiers Memorial Field Course is a popular municipal course. It has an exceptional layout that contains four sets of tees for all skill levels, allowing players to enjoy the course at their own pace. Furthermore, this 18-hole championship course offers multiple tee boxes on each hole and can stretch up to 5700 yards of the green. This course attracts players of all ages and skill levels thanks to its friendly staff, well-maintained grounds, and clubhouse facilities. 3. Eastwood Golf Club, Eastwood Course Located about four miles from the center of Rochester, Eastwood Golf Club is a municipal course that offers visitors an 18-hole trail of play. The layout measures around 6600 yards and has a par of 71. Tee times are available by booking in advance, or you can walk onto the course if there's space on any of the tee boxes. In addition, the course is centered around a fantastic clubhouse, which boasts on-site catering. There's also a pro shop, bar and grill, and event space for hosting parties. Please drink responsibly and in moderation while enjoying your time here! 4. Willow Creek Course & Event Facility The Willow Creek Course & Event Facility is an 18-hole course with a large driving range. The course is always in great condition and offers a variety of tee boxes to ensure any type of golfer can find the right fit. The course layout features lush green grass and scenic views of the surrounding landscape. In addition, the event facility also features year-round events, including meetings, weddings, and tournaments. What's more, it's located about five miles from the center of Rochester, so it works well for those who work or live within the city limits - but still want an outdoor recreational activity all year long. The courses above are sure to make for an exceptional golfing experience. They boast amenities including driving ranges, practice greens, and awesome hole layouts with incredible scenery that make them worth visiting. And while you're still in town, visit us at Rochester Ford and we'll provide a fun, car-buying experience. We have a large selection of new Fords along with used vehicles to choose from.

Not sure what to do this coming weekend? Or wondering how to make the most of summer on a tight budget? Well, a picnic is your answer. Load up the kids in the family car and go create some unforgettable memories in one of the awesome picnic spots around Rochester, MN. We have rounded up the 6 best locations to make it easier for you to choose. more 6 Great Picnic Spots in and Around Rochester, MN 1. Essex Park Located on the north side of town, Essex Park is an awesome picnic location. The entire park is covered in lush green grass. This means you can either eat on the grass in the open sun or in the shade of a pavilion. The park also has bathrooms in case you need to freshen up. 2. Quarry Hill Park This is a historical park in a natural area that offers a serene environment perfect for unwinding and romantic picnics. Notable features include a picnic shelter, tennis courts, playground for kids, horseshoes, baseball court, and an open playfield. The park is also one of the venues for seasonal cross-country skiing. 3. The Art Center The art center is located downtown and it can be a great rendezvous for a quick lunch with colleagues, family, or friends during your lunch break. Behind the Art Center is the best spot to set up your picnic because of the river that flows past. If you have enough time, you can also explore the Art Center or pick some movies from the Rochester Library, which is right across the street. 4. Kutzky and Cooke Parks Kutzky and Cook Parks are the perfect destinations for those who fancy eating on riverbanks. Cooke Park is on 722 7th street and it has soccer fields, pickleball courts, shelters, and a baseball diamond. Further down at 213 13th street is the Kutzky Park, which features picnic pavilions, bathrooms, on-site parking, volleyball courts, and basketball courts. 5. Foster Arend Park This is a unique picnic location because the park has a lake that has an awesome beach with a swimming area. In addition to swimming, you can also play sand volleyball or just relax on the sandy beach. Other attractions include the unpaved and paved trails, an open playfield, horseshoes, a playground, and a rentable space. You can also come with your rod for some catch and release action. 6. Soldiers Memorial Field Park This is arguably the best picnic destination in Rochester. There are two playgrounds for the little ones, a pavilion with picnic tables and a pool. If you are looking to burn off some energy, you can do some running on the track. There is also a wood-fired pizza establishment nearby for those who don't fancy carrying packed food for their picnics. A good family car can make it easier for you to take your family on day trips. If you are into fishing, you may want a car that has enough room to carry your gear as well. Visit us at Rochester Ford to see our inventory of new and used cars. We are sure you will find the car of your dreams!

Nearly all of us are familiar with the name - the Ford F-150. It's been one of the best-selling trucks in America for 44 years and now, it's getting an all-new, all-electric sibling in the 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning. This gas-free pickup delivers more purposeful technology and a superior driving experience backed by the Blue Oval. In other words, The Lightning is a look at what's to come for drivers. more 5 Things We Know About the New 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning 1. Builds on the F-150 Legend The Lightning shares more than a name with the traditional F-150. Both have similar body and cabin structures, but the former trades a gasoline-powered engine for two electric motors and one of two battery packs. The first battery - known as the Standard-Range - can deliver up to 230 miles per charge. The Extended-Range pack approaches 300 miles. In addition, the Lightning comes standard as all-wheel drive and can tow up to 10,000 pounds. 2. Can Power Your Home The Lightning is 100% electric and provides environmentally-friendly benefits like zero tailpipe emissions and clean battery power. But this truck has your back in more situations than merely driving. If you experience a power outage in severe weather, the Lightning can power your home for up to three days on a fully charged battery. You can extend this window to 10 days if you're careful with power usage. How many vehicles can boast such capabilities? 3. Delivers Plenty of Muscle When equipped with the Standard-Range battery we mentioned a moment ago, the Lightning's motors combine to push out 426 horsepower. The Extended-Range battery raises this to 563 horses, and torque maxes at an impressive 775 lb-ft with either setup. These numbers have convinced us the Lightning will perform with a brisk and brawny touch. 4. Makes Charging Easy Buyers can charge their Lightnings at home with 110- and 220-volt outlets. The pickup can also juice at public fast-charging stations, and the Lightning can charge to 80% of battery capacity in just 44 minutes. The electric pickup is additionally equipped with Intelligent Range. This feature teaches the truck how much energy it consumes in a variety of conditions, accurately calculating range while accounting for factors like towing weights, payload, traffic, and weather. The pickup then relays this information to you so you're always aware of energy levels. 5. Showcases a Well-Equipped Cabin The Lightning gives a standard 12-inch infotainment display that is bigger than what you'll find in the traditional F-150. It also contains a voluminous front-trunk cargo bay, and although it will be offered only as a crew cab at first, different configurations may be available later on. Ford's latest Sync 4 technology is standard in all trims, as are coveted features like: An eight-speaker stereo system Wi-Fi hotspot In-dash navigation Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility With the F-150 Lightning, Ford sought and took advantage of every opportunity to create a powerful, productive, and lasting pickup for drivers who have work to do. It combines the good looks and muscle of the F-150 with future technology - resulting in a supremely intelligent and capable vehicle. For release dates and more details, contact Rochester Ford today.

Rochester, MN is home to a number of different types of museums to get lost in, so coming here to learn, explore history, or browse through some amazing art is a great decision for travelers. If you ever find yourself in the city and want to check out some of the great museums it has to offer, look no further than this list. Here are some of the very best museums in Rochester. 6 of the Best Museums to Visit Near Rochester, MN 1. Rochester Art Center Perhaps the best place to see contemporary art in the city, the Rochester Art Center strives to be the go-to art museum for everyone they can reach. Putting on only the best pieces from artists all over the world, for some, it has already achieved that vision. They have an incredible series of exhibits and programs, designed to engage the minds of their visitors. Join some of their classes and workshops, film screenings, and lectures for the full experience. 2. Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden Charles Gagnon's very own museum is an incredible feat in itself. Visit the late artist's home and take a tour, led by his wife Arlyn, through his many beautiful sculptures, each one with an interesting story to tell. Hear about Charles' life and everything he put into his work as you walk through the gardens. This deeply personal experience is something unlike anything else, and definitely worth a visit. 3. Heritage House Victorian Museum A single house with an interesting story, the Heritage House has stood the test of time. Now acting as a museum, preserving the memories of the 1800s, this house is a window into how life was lived back then. If you're interested in seeing history brought to life, this is the place for you. 4. Mayowood Mansion Rochester is well-known for the Mayo Clinic that resides here. A very important part of the city, visitors and locals alike are keen to learn more about the doctors that founded it. That's where Mayowood Mansion comes in, an excellently preserved home, filled with artifacts and heirlooms of the Mayo family. Tour this place, and learn about the lives of the doctors that changed the medical world. 5. Spark The perfect place for a day out with the kids. Spark is an interactive museum, full of fun activities for children to enjoy. While playing, your little ones will be able to open their minds and learn as they explore the countless number of sections available. A favorite among parents, Spark is an outstanding experience that will leave your children with added skills, passion for learning, and a greater creative mind. 6. Historic Center of Olmstead County Learn about the history of Olmstead County at this sight containing historic buildings and farmsteads. With exceptional exhibits dating back to prehistoric mammals, this place is an endless opportunity for learning. Explore the story of Rochester from the very beginning, leaving nothing more you could ask for from a museum like this. There's a massive amount of information to be learned and sights to see in Rochester. If you're visiting the city, any one of these spots is a definite must when deciding what to check out. Stop by Rochester Ford for some of the best deals on vehicles and services while you're here!

With so many places to choose from, it's hard to know where to start when thinking of going camping in Rochester, MN. There are lots of amazing sites to choose from, whether you prefer to stay in the comfort of an RV or head out into the wilds with just a tent. However you like to camp, there's the perfect spot for you amongst the campgrounds on this list. more 3 Favorite Camping Destinations Near Rochester, MN 1. Whitewater State Park Whitewater state park is the perfect place to start if you love fishing, as the Whitewater river around which the park is centered is full of trout to try your luck, as well as being a popular destination for kayakers and canoers. Heading inland, there's miles of wilderness to explore, and lots of hiking trails, including the shorter Chimney Rock Trail, and a longer hike that takes you to Inspiration Point, a large limestone outcrop that overlooks the Whitewater valley, and the miles of wilderness beyond. Campground spaces here are plentiful, with a selection of modern, electrified campsites, all of which are pull-through capable. There are a full range of amenities here, including access to regularly placed shower houses, all of which have laundry facilities. Aside from the main campsite, there is also a group camp area, and five cabins to rent. 2. Carley State Park Located just upstream of Whitewater State Park, on the North Fork of the Whitewater River, Carly State Park offers the essence of beauty and quiet. As a smaller state park, you can expect to see fewer visitors here, which means you'll have plenty of time to yourself amongst the beautiful flowers and trees. With the abundance of natural beauty here, it's no wonder the park is known for its bird and wildlife-watching opportunities. The park's campsite offers 20 secluded drive-in sites that can accommodate tents or trailers and RVs up to 30 feet in length. In addition, two group areas can accommodate either 15 or 20 people. Vault toilets are available all year round and are dotted throughout the park and campground area. 3. Chester Woods Park Located very close to the eastern side of Rochester, on the headwaters of Bear Creek is Chester Woods Park, a great example of Minnesota's rugged bluff country. Most of the park is undeveloped, with a wide variety of inviting natural habitats through which wind over 15 miles of primitive trails. Apart from hiking, the park is also a great place to go boating or fishing, with a launch ramp and fishing pier located near the campground area. The campground offers a great variety of drive-in sites to choose from, both for tents and RVs, but also for equestrian and group campers as well. In addition, there are cabins available to rent, as well as showers and toilets. This list is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to places to camp near Rochester, so get out there and enjoy the outdoors today. And, if you need a new vehicle to carry all your gear, then visit us at Rochester Ford today!

It's vital that you recognize transmission problems as soon as they start. Getting to your Ford dealer early on when you're having an issue will help us repair your problem before it gets too serious. You don't want to drive around with a faulty vehicle for too long, as unrepaired faults only get worse as time goes on. more Transmission Problems? 5 Warning Signs to Recognize 1. You're Having Issues Switching Gears When you're having issues switching gears, then you're most likely low on transmission fluid. However, if you've just had your fluid topped off, then your mechanic may have put the wrong type of transmission fluid in your vehicle. You should consult an expert to fix this mistake, and you should go to a factory-trained Ford expert for your regular services, too. Experts don't make the avoidable mistake that general mechanics sometimes make. You'll find expert technicians at your local dealership. 2. Your Gears Are Slipping Slipping gears is horrifyingly dangerous, and you don't want to be driving while you're having this issue. When this happens, then you're most likely having an issue with your transmission, you should get a tow truck to bring you to us immediately. 3. Your Ford Dealer Is Concerned Sometimes there are no warning signs when your transmission is faulty. You may only find out that you're having an issue if a technician at the dealership tells you so during a regular service. If your technician tells you that you have a problem with your transmission, then you should let the technician fix it right then and there. We won't let you drive away when your transmission is faulty, and we're happy to take care of the problem for you while you're here. 4. Your Vehicle Is Leaking Transmission Fluid If your vehicle is leaking transmission fluid, then you need to get the leak fixed as soon as you can. You most likely have a leak if you see some red liquid pooling by your vehicle, and it's definitely transmission fluid if that liquid smells sweet. Another way you can recognize a fluid leak is by checking your fluid levels regularly. Regularly checking your levels will give you an idea of how quickly the levels usually drop. If your transmission fluid level has dropped more than it usually does, then you may have a leak. 5. Strange Noises in Your Vehicle New noises in your vehicle are a cause for concern, and some sounds are direct indicators of transmission issues. One noise that indicates transmission issues is a humming sound. You may also encounter clunking or whining noises. If the new noise only occurs while your vehicle is in neutral, then your transmission is definitely in trouble, and it might be a serious issue. You'd better get it checked out immediately. Tell your technician about what's been happening in your vehicle, and that will help speed up the diagnosis and repair process. Need a repair on your transmission? Stop by Rochester Ford, and we'll take care of that.

We don't often think about our vehicle's radiator, but it performs a critical job: ensuring the engine doesn't overheat and leave us in the lurch on the side of the road! If you need a radiator repair, it's time for a trip to your Ford dealer in Rochester, MN so that our certified technicians can get your Ford safely back on the road. Keeping Your Ford Cool The radiator is part of a larger cooling system that also includes a fan, belt, water pump, thermostat, and several hoses. If any of these components break down, your car will promptly begin to overheat. If not dealt with immediately, you can find yourself with some very expensive engine damage that is much more complicated to fix than a simple cooling system repair. Warning Signs That You Need a Radiator Repair The most obvious sign that your cooling system could be in trouble is a rising number on your vehicle's temperature gauge.  If this is ignored, you will soon be faced with an even more obvious sign – white steam pouring out from under the hood of your car. If you notice a puddle of green liquid under the front of your vehicle, this is a coolant leak. While this doesn't seem quite as dramatic as the white steam, diminishing coolant can quickly lead to a very bad situation and needs to be addressed right away. A Trip to Your Ford Dealer in Rochester, MN If your vehicle is in an advanced stage of overheating, you will need to pull over immediately and call for a tow service to our dealership. Hopefully, we will be catching the issue at an early enough stage that a simple repair can be done on the spot. Your Ford might be low on coolant levels, or a leak could have formed. These are relatively straightforward fixes. The worst case scenario (assuming you came in before any engine damage occurred) is that the radiator itself is beyond repair and needs to be replaced. Servicing Your Ford the Right Way If your Ford does need work done on the cooling system or any other component of the vehicle, it is so important to have this work done by someone who truly understands your Ford car, truck, or SUV. Our Ford-certified technicians have seen every worst-case scenario and know how to fix them all. Most importantly, we only use the factory parts and materials specified for your make and model. The Importance of Regular Maintenance If you stick to your vehicle's recommended twice-per-year service visit, our technicians will likely be able to pinpoint small issues (such as low coolant) before they become major problems (such as being stranded on the highway with an overheating car). As with all of your Ford's components, being proactive about maintenance can make all the difference when it comes to staying safe on the road. If you have any concerns about your radiator or other parts on your Ford, call us right away at Rochester Ford! We will get your vehicle back in top shape so you can feel confident behind the wheel.

The city of Rochester, MN is located a little over 85 miles south of Minneapolis, not far from the banks of the Mississippi River and several lakes, ponds, and bodies of water featuring some of the best fishing spots in the state. If you are ready for an adventure, get your gear ready, fill up your tank, hit the road to one of these beautiful destinations, and come back home with a great catch. 3 Great Fishing Spots Near Rochester, MN 1. Merrick State Park, WI Located right across the state line in Wisconsin, the Merrick State Park is a popular fishing destination for anglers from the area. Established in 1932, the place is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and is known for its three different campgrounds where visitors can spend the night along the banks of the Mississippi River. Other facilities at the park include two boat ramps, different picnic areas, a playground, and several hiking trails. Getting to the Merrick State Park from downtown Rochester takes a little over an hour by car, driving about 60 miles along route I-90 E. Both boat and pier fishing are allowed at the park, which is open year-round between 6 am and 11 pm. Visitors are required to purchase a vehicle admission sticker to access the area. Once you make your way to the river, some of the species you will find include smallmouth and largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill. 2. Myre – Big Island State Park, MN Spanning an area of a little under 1,600 acres, the Myre – Big Island State Park was founded in 1947 and is a well-known fishing destination among anglers from the nearby towns of Albert Lea and other urban areas in southern Minnesota. The key feature of this state park is the island located right in the center of the Albert Lea Lake. Connected to the mainland by a causeway, Big Island offers some of the best fishing opportunities in the park. Some of the species of fish that live in the waters of the Albert Lea Lake include panfish, blackhead bullhead, northern pike, and carp. Apart from fishing, the park offers several outdoor activities, including boating, canoeing, kayaking, camping, and hiking. Swimming is not recommended here, as the waters are shallow and often have large concentrations of lake weed. Getting here from downtown Rochester takes less than an hour by car, driving 60 miles west along I-90 W. 3. Silver Lake Park, MN Located right in the city center of Rochester, the Silver Lake State Park is the closest and most popular fishing spot for locals. The place features boat ramps and designated areas where anglers can try their luck with species, including northern pike, catfish, walleye, bluegill, and crappie. Other popular activities at the park include picnicking, swimming, hiking, and skating. Before you check out these fishing destinations, stop by Rochester Ford and check out the inventory of new and used vehicles we have available for you. We have the best prices in the market, as well as flexible financing plans for you to take home a car that suits your needs, style, and budget.

When it comes to compact vans, you can't beat what the Transit Connect brings to the market. It combines a spacious interior for hauling both cargo and passengers with all the modern safety and tech features one should expect from Ford. If you're looking for a van to use for work or as a transport vehicle, this one is a must-see. Here's everything you should know about the 2021 Ford Transit Connect. Your Complete Guide to the 2021 Ford Transit Connect Its Performance Options Offer Power and Fuel-Efficiency The Transit Connect has two I-4 engines available: 2.0-liter and 2.5-liter. 162 horsepower can be expected from the 2.0-liter, while the 2.5-liter offers 169 horsepower. Both engines give it more than enough performance and help it to remain fuel-efficient, as well. Speaking of fuel, an available CNG/propane engine package allows you to run your Transit Connect on alternative fuels, such as compressed natural gas and propane autogas. The vehicle can be equipped with tougher valve seats and exhaust valves to specifically handle other types of fuel. It Brings Convenience Options for All Scenarios There are plenty of convenience options as well. Charging your smartphone or tablet just got easier, thanks to the available wireless charging pad that can be found in the Transit Connect's center console area. You can simply set your phone or other devices on the charging device's pad for quick and completely untethered charging. Defrosting your windshield is quick and effortless with the Quickclear Electric Windshield Defroster. After pressing the activation button, mist, snow, soot, and ice stand no chance, as a pair of heated washer jets warm up the entire windshield for quick removal of both frost and fog. It Offers Style and Design That Can Be Customized Unlike many other vans in its class, the Transit Connect is offered in multiple exterior colors, so you can find one that suits your company or style. Five unique Ford colors are available: Frozen White, Agate Black, Dark Blue, Silver, and Race Red. Also, if you need to customize your Transit Connect so that it matches your type of work better, Ford offers the Vocational Upfits Program. This is a program where you can have the vehicle modified specifically to your needs. Extra shelving, ladder racks, or other specialized modifications can be made to the vehicle. Its Safety Features Are Modern and Intuitive Plenty of advanced and intelligent safety features come in the 2021 Transit Connect as well. Co-Pilot 360 is a suite of safety features included in the Transit Connect that can help you with keeping your distance from other vehicles. Pre-Collision Assist alerts you to vehicles or pedestrians you're approaching while automatically applying the brakes if needed. A rear-view camera behind the vehicle allows you to see vehicles behind you. If they get too close, an audible warning will let you know. Safety, style, comfort, and two different engine choices. These are the features every passenger or cargo van should offer. Stop by Rochester Ford today for a test drive or to discuss all of the 2021 Transit Connect's features and options. We're located in Rochester, Minnesota, which is a little over an hour's drive from the Twin Cities area. We look forward to meeting you and showing you everything this impressive van has to offer.

Rochester, MN is a great place for families to enjoy spending quality time together. There is something here for everyone. If you are looking to get the kids out of the house and make some memories, here are some of the most popular kid-friendly activities for families to enjoy. 7 Fantastic Kid-Friendly Activities for Families in Rochester, MN 1. Visit a Museum Rochester has a variety of museums that kids and adults alike can enjoy. The Spark Children's Museum offers opportunities for kids to learn and play. If history is what you seek, you can check out a variety of history museums in Rochester including the Heritage House Victorian Museum, or the Mayowood Mansion. Museums like the Rochester Art Center and the Charles E. Gagnon Museum & Sculpture Garden will not disappoint your little art enthusiasts. 2. Have a Race If speed is what you are after, the Skyline Raceway will not disappoint. With activities like go-karting, mini-golf, and even panning for treasure, this destination is sure to provide plenty of entertainment for kids. 3. Bounce Around If you are looking to get rid of some pent-up energy, check out Air Insanity. Air Insanity is a trampoline park that offers so many activities that kids will want to stay and play all day. These include an Open Jump Arena, an Insane Air Bag, a Toddler Zone, and so much more. Kids can spend hours bouncing and playing to their heart's content. 4. Catch a Game If you are looking for the classic family outing of spectator sports you have options here. For a baseball game, check out the Rochester Honkers. If it's hockey you're after, take the kids to see the Rochester Grizzlies. These activities will provide an exciting experience the whole family can enjoy. 5. Video Game Nostalgia The Machine Shed offers up a giant dose of video game nostalgia. This is a perfect activity for rainy days, or for any day that you are longing for something reminiscent of the 80's and 90's. Parents will love this activity too. 6. Go Bowling Bowling is a classic activity for families that never gets old. Bowlocity offers families the chance to enjoy activities like bowling, laser tag, and there is even a sports bar with a kids menu where families can grab a bite to eat. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. Do not drink and drive. Alcohol is intended for adults of legal drinking age. 7. Enjoy the Parks When the weather is nice the kids will probably want to get outside and enjoy the sunshine. There are many parks and playgrounds around the area, and even some indoor facilities too. Whether it is hiking, walking, relaxing, or playing, families can find a park in Rochester that fits their needs. With so much for families to do and see in Rochester, you need a reliable vehicle to get you and your kids around safely. Contact us at Rochester Ford where we put our customers first, and we can find you the best vehicle to suit your family's needs.

Alternator trouble is never fun, so you should visit your Ford dealer as soon as you notice the signs of a faulty alternator. Visiting your Rochester MN dealer will ensure that the alternator issue is fixed quickly. Pay close attention to your vehicle at all times when driving. You never know when one of these 7 signs is going to pop up. 7 Common Signs Your Ford May Need an Alternator Repair From Your Ford Dealer in Rochester MN 1. Your Lights Are Behaving Erratically Your headlights can indicate that you need an alternator repair in four ways: They're too dim They're too bright They're flashing on and off They alternate between too bright and too dim These four headlight issues indicate that your alternator can't supply power to the lights adequately or steadily. You'd better get your alternator checked out fast. 2. Your Battery Dies A dead battery has several causes, and one of those is a faulty alternator. You can rule out alternator issues with one simple trick. Jumpstart your vehicle, then wait for a while. If the battery dies soon after being jumpstarted, then it's an alternator issue. Your alternator can't recharge the battery adequately, so the battery keeps failing. If your vehicle stays on when jumpstarted, then great, it's not an alternator issue. However, your battery may be on its last legs, so head to a dealership to get that checked out. 3. Your Accessories Malfunctions Modern vehicles are programmed to prioritize functions such as your headlights when your alternator is failing. This leads to faulty accessories, like a dead radio, non-functioning seat warmers, or a slow, dim-screened infotainment system. More of your accessories will fail if you ignore the issue, so visit your dealer as soon as something is amiss in your vehicle. Your dash may start malfunctioning next, and it's only a matter of time before your headlights become faulty, too. 4. Issues While Starting If you have trouble trying to start your vehicle, then that's a sign that your alternator is failing to power the battery correctly. Your vehicle will probably start with a little persistence, but it might not start next time you try to drive. Head to the dealer for a fix. Your battery will most likely die, as we discussed earlier, if you ignore the issue. 5. You Keep Stalling If your vehicle stalls while you're driving, then it means that your alternator isn't powering your spark plugs very well. This prevents the engine from running smoothly. This warrants immediate attention and an expert repair. 6. Your Engine Growls or Whines Noises are a huge indicator of trouble in your vehicle. You'll usually hear growling or whining noises when your alternator needs repairing, but these sounds can have other culprits, too. Get your vehicle checked out as soon as you can. 7. You Smell Burning Burning smells are unfortunately common in vehicles. Worn-out alternator parts can create a burning odor, too. The alternator's drive belt emits a foul, rubber-burning scent when it's worn out, but frayed alternator wires can cause the issue, too. You'll smell something akin to an electrical fire when your wires are frayed. Do you need to get your alternator fixed? Come to Rochester Ford, and we'll get you fixed up and back on the road soon.