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Comparing the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum and 2026 Platinum MAX The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum emerges as the premier full-size family SUV, refining interior luxury, infotainment speed, and standard equipment beyond the 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4. Powered by a commanding 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 producing 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, the 2027 model combines an expansive 131.5 in wheelbase, about 36 cu ft of third-row cargo space, and up to 9,000 lbs of towing capability. For buyers comparing model years at Valor Ford, the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum delivers a strong blend of executive refinement and heavy-duty utility. Contact Us for Financing Information Which Is the Best Ford Expedition for Junction City Families: 2027 Expedition Max Platinum or 2026 Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4? The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum stands out for local drivers seeking updated digital integration and flagship refinement, building directly on the robust mechanical foundation established by the 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4. Both iterations utilize Ford's proven extended-wheelbase full-size SUV platform, offering generous three-row seating for 7 passengers and serious all-weather capability. However, the 2027 model year introduces key interior software enhancements, streamlined cabin controls, and subtle aesthetic updates that give it a clear edge for buyers seeking long-term ownership value. When evaluated against smaller utilities, the Expedition Max platform provides impressive cabin volume and hauling strength. Families cross-shopping the lineup might consider learning more about the Ford Explorer for midsize daily driving, or reviewing the compact Ford Maverick lineup for efficient urban utility. Those prioritizing maximum open-bed utility often look toward examining our Ford F-150 details, while heavy-duty commercial demands call for checking out the heavy-duty Ford F-250 or researching Super Duty F-250 capabilities. For drivers who want sports-car performance for weekend getaways, exploring the athletic Ford Mustang provides a thrilling alternative. For households in Junction City navigating daily school drop-offs and weekend road trips along the river valleys, the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum delivers the commanding elevated view, executive comfort, and effortless road manners required for smooth, stress-free travel. Pricing Trim lineup and pricing comparison for available models. 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum Trim MSRP 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 Trim MSRP — — Platinum MAX 4x4 $76,950 Comparing Price and Trim Value for Military Families Starting at $76,950 for the 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 (with a $2,595 destination charge bringing the total MSRP to $79,545), both model years are positioned as flagship trims, though our featured 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum inventory models—such as stock 27FT01 listed at $79,075—include enhanced technology content. When analyzing long-term investment value, the Platinum trim level sits at the pinnacle of Ford's SUV portfolio. It includes high-value standard features that would cost thousands extra as standalone options on lower trims. Standard equipment includes leather-upholstered seating, a panoramic glass roof, power-retractable running boards, and advanced driver-assist systems. To make upgrading even more accessible, Valor Ford offers a seamless digital purchasing experience. Buyers can begin by using our online trade-in appraisal tool to establish current vehicle equity. Families interested in off-road adventure can also compare full-size luxury against our new Ford Bronco selection before making a final decision. For active-duty service members stationed near Fort Riley, the Expedition Max Platinum provides a durable, high-capacity vehicle capable of handling frequent relocations and long-distance highway travel with equal ease. Trade In Evaluation Passenger Comfort and Cargo Space for Weekend Adventures Offering about 36 cu ft of dedicated rear cargo space behind the third row and expanding to about 123 cu ft with the rear seats folded flat, the long-wheelbase 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum delivers exceptional spatial versatility for busy households. The internal dimensions demonstrate why the extended MAX body length is preferred by large families. Up front, occupants enjoy 41.8 in of headroom, 43.9 in of legroom, and 64.9 in of shoulder room. Second-row passengers benefit from 40 in of headroom and an expansive 43.9 in of legroom, while the third row provides adult-friendly comfort with 37.4 in of headroom and 41.1 in of legroom. Luxury touches abound throughout the cabin. Standard Black Onyx leather seat upholstery is complemented by multi contour front bucket seats featuring electric lumbar support and memory settings. The second row features power-folding 40/20/40 tip-and-slide seating for easy third-row access, while tri-zone automatic climate control ensures personalized comfort across all three rows. Keeping your luxury SUV running like new is simple when scheduling your Ford maintenance online with factory-trained technicians. Specification 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 Seating Capacity — 7 Cargo Volume — 36.1 cu ft Curb Weight — 5,794 lbs Towing Capacity — 9,000 lbs Payload Capacity — 1,956 lbs Performance and Driving Experience Driven by a high-output 3.5L twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine generating 400 hp at 5,200 rpm and 480 lb-ft of torque at 3,300 rpm, both the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum and 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 deliver smooth, responsive power across all driving conditions. Power is managed through a SelectShift 10-speed automatic transmission paired with an intelligent ControlTrac all-wheel drive system. With a substantial curb weight of 5,794 lbs and a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 7,750 lbs, the Expedition Max remains composed and surefooted. Its heavy-duty independent suspension—featuring front double wishbones with a stabilizer bar and a rear multi link configuration with coil springs—absorbs road imperfections while maintaining strict body control. Towing capability is a core strength of the Expedition platform. With a maximum braked towing capacity of 9,000 lbs and a payload allowance of 1,956 lbs, this SUV handles heavy ski boats, camper trailers, and horse trailers with confidence. Integrated trailer sway control, trailer brake control, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist streamline hitching and maneuvering. For owners adding custom towing accessories or replacement filters, our official OEM parts department provides genuine factory components designed specifically for your powertrain. Order Genuine Ford Parts Specification 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum 2026 Ford Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 Engine — 3.5L Horsepower — 400 hp Torque — 480 lb-ft Transmission — SelectShift Drivetrain — All-wheel drive Fuel Efficiency and Range for Commuting Delivering an EPA-estimated 15 city MPG, 22 hwy MPG, and 18 combined MPG, the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum pairs strong twin-turbo performance with a large 27.8 gal fuel tank to yield up to 500 mi of highway cruising range. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 utilizes direct fuel injection and dual turbochargers to optimize fuel atomization and combustion efficiency. Standard auto Start/Stop technology reduces idling fuel consumption during urban driving, while the 10-speed automatic transmission keeps engine speeds in their ideal efficiency band at highway speeds. Running on unleaded fuel, the Expedition Max balances heavy-duty power with reasonable operating costs. Its 500 mi estimated range minimizes fuel stops on long interstate drives, making it a reliable long-distance cruiser. Smart Technology Features That Keep Households Connected and Safe The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum features a reconfigurable 24 in digital instrument cluster paired with a central 13.2 in touch screen running the latest infotainment interface with Google virtual assistant integration. Audio performance is highlighted by a standard Bang & Olufsen sound system featuring up to 22 speakers and an integrated subwoofer. Seamless smartphone integration is supported via wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A built-in Wi-Fi hotspot with embedded SIM technology keeps passenger devices connected on the go. Device charging is convenient throughout the cabin, with 2 USB ports in the front row, 2 in the second row, 2 in the third row, and 1 in the cargo area, alongside multiple 12V power outlets and an available main AC power supply. Furthermore, available Ford BlueCruise provides Level 2 hands-free highway driving assistance on pre-mapped corridors, reducing driver fatigue on extended trips. Advanced Safety Systems Designed for Military Families’ Daily Commutes and Outdoor Activities Equipped with standard Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), both the 2027 and 2026 Expedition models provide comprehensive active safety protection. The active safety suite includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Alert with active steering intervention, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance radar, and a 360-Degree Camera system with front and rear parking sensors. Anti-collision braking operates at low speeds in both forward and reverse to prevent parking lot bumps. Passive safety is reinforced by 6 standard airbags, including dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and three-row side curtain airbags. Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners are standard at all outboard positions, while ISOFIX child seat anchors ensure secure car seat installation across the rear rows. In emergency situations, integrated 911 Assist telematics automatically contacts emergency services if an airbag deploys. Schedule Ford Service Today Frequently Asked Questions: Choosing Between the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum and 2026 Expedition Platinum MAX 4x4 Q: Is the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum worth choosing over the 2026 model? Yes. While both vehicles share the same twin-turbo 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum includes updated digital display software, improved touch-screen responsiveness, and refined interior trim options. These enhancements provide a more modern cabin experience and potential long-term resale appeal. Q: What is the maximum towing capacity of the Expedition Max Platinum? When properly equipped, both the 2027 and 2026 extended-wheelbase Expedition models offer a maximum braked towing capacity of 9,000 lbs and a payload allowance of 1,956 lbs. Standard towing features include integrated trailer sway control, trailer brake control, and a heavy-duty hitch receiver. Q: How much cargo space is available behind the third-row seats? The extended MAX body style provides about 36 cu ft of cargo volume behind the third row with all seats in place. Folding the rear seats opens up a maximum cargo capacity of about 123 cu ft, offering ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or camping gear. Q: What safety technologies come standard on these full-size SUVs? Standard safety features on the Platinum trim include Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with trailer coverage, Lane Keeping Alert, a 360-Degree Camera system, and 6 airbags protecting all three seating rows. Q: Where can I test drive the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum near Junction City? You can experience the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum in person at Valor Ford. To find us, visit our Junction City showroom address at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, or give our sales team (785) 238-5114 a call to schedule your test drive today. Final Verdict: Why the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum Is the Ultimate Family SUV The 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum stands as a compelling choice for full-size SUV buyers, combining executive luxury, advanced technology, and raw utility into an exceptional family vehicle. With its robust 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine delivering 400 hp, an expansive about 123 cu ft maximum cargo hold, and a proven 9,000 lbs towing capacity, the 2027 Expedition Max Platinum handles everyday carpools and heavy-duty towing with equal confidence. Upgraded interior displays, Google assistant integration, and available hands-free Ford BlueCruise highway driving further set it apart from previous model years. Visit Valor Ford today to explore our current inventory, speak with our finance specialists, and take the 2027 Ford Expedition Max Platinum for a test drive. Experience firsthand why Ford continues to lead the full-size SUV class. Browse Used Inventory © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

Why Modern Diesels Struggle in Cold Weather: 6.7L Power Stroke Starting Causes When sub-zero Arctic winds sweep across Dickinson County and Fort Riley, owners of modern diesel trucks like the 6.7L Power Stroke often face one of winter's most frustrating experiences: turning the key or pushing the start button only to be met with a sluggish crank or an unyielding refusal to fire up. While modern heavy-duty Ford Super Duty pickups are marvels of high-pressure common rail injection engineering and robust thermal design, extreme cold shifts physics and chemistry heavily against diesel combustion. Unlike gasoline engines that rely on spark plugs to ignite fuel at virtually any temperature, diesel engines rely entirely on compression heat to ignite atomized fuel. The top culprits responsible for cold-weather starting trouble on the 6.7L Power Stroke include severely degraded dual batteries with diminished Cold Cranking Amps (CCA), paraffin wax gelling in untreated ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) fuel, malfunctioning Glow Plug Control Modules (GPCM) or damaged glow plug harnesses, and high-viscosity engine oil that slows down cranking speed below the threshold required to build compression heat. Understanding these critical thermal thresholds allows truck owners to take proactive measures before freezing temperatures hit central Kansas. If you want to ensure your heavy-duty truck remains dependable through harsh winters, you can readily Schedule Ford Service Today with our factory-trained diesel technicians at Valor Ford in Junction City. Schedule Diesel Cold Start Inspection Is a Weak Battery the Most Common Cause of a Winter Crank-No-Start Condition? Without question, dual-battery failure is the single most frequent reason 6.7L Power Stroke diesels fail to start on freezing Kansas mornings. Modern heavy-duty Ford trucks rely on two high-output 12-volt AGM or lead-acid batteries wired in parallel. This setup must simultaneously power ultra-fast glow plugs, energize high-draw fuel lift pumps, fire electronic injectors operating at over 30,000 PSI, and turn over a massive 15.8:1 compression ratio engine. As ambient temperatures plummet toward zero degrees Fahrenheit, chemical activity inside automotive batteries slows down drastically. At 0°F, a standard vehicle battery loses roughly 50 to 60 percent of its rated Cold Cranking Amps (CCA). At the exact same moment, cold, thickened oil increases engine cranking resistance by almost 200 percent. If one of your dual batteries has even a single degraded cell, it acts as a constant drain on the second battery, preventing the starter motor from reaching the minimum 150 to 200 RPM rotational speed needed to build cylinder compression heat. Because modern dual-battery systems hide degradation well during mild weather, drivers rarely notice early warning signs until winter strikes. If you suspect your truck is due for fresh Motorcraft batteries or want to evaluate upgrade possibilities, explore our Research Ford F-250 page or stop by our service department for a load test. Understanding Diesel Fuel Gelling and Waxing in Kansas Sub-Zero Temperatures 1. Wax Crystallization Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) naturally contains paraffin wax compounds that improve energy density and cetane rating. However, when fuel temperature reaches its Cloud Point (typically around 10°F to 15°F), these waxes begin forming solid microscopic crystals. Without anti-gel treatment, fuel turns cloudy and rapidly solidifies. 2. Cold Filter Plug Point As temperatures drop further toward the Cold Filter Plugging Point (CFPP), paraffin wax aggregates into dense gel deposits. This gel instantly clogs the primary 10-micron fuel water separator filter on the frame rail, starving the High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) pump and preventing fuel delivery to the injectors. 3. Moisture & Ice Blockage Condensation frequently collects inside fuel tanks during temperature swings in Junction City and Fort Riley. Un-drained water inside the fuel water separator module freezes solid in sub-zero weather, completely blocking fuel line flow and potentially damaging high-pressure injection components. To protect against fuel gelling during severe cold snaps across central Kansas, Power Stroke owners should regularly treat their tanks with Ford-approved anti-gel additives at every fill-up once ambient temperatures drop below freezing. Need fresh OEM filters before winter? You can Order Genuine Ford Parts directly through our dealership. How Glow Plug and Glow Plug Control Module (GPCM) Failures Trigger Cold Starting Problems Modern 6.7L Power Stroke engines utilize fast-acting ceramic or metal glow plugs controlled by a sophisticated Glow Plug Control Module (GPCM). Unlike older mechanical diesels that required long pre-heat waits, the modern GPCM modulates electrical current via pulse-width modulation, heating individual glow tips above 1,800°F in less than two seconds. When temperatures plunge, the GPCM also maintains an 'after-glow' phase after combustion starts to reduce white smoke emissions and steady cold idle. However, if a single glow plug suffers high resistance or short-circuits, or if the GPCM's solid-state power switching circuitry fails, specific Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs like P0671 through P0678) are triggered. In severe cold, losing even two glow plugs will result in extended cranking, rough misfiring, or complete starting failure. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service How Does the 6.7L Power Stroke Perform in Sub-Zero Kansas Winter Conditions? Engineered specifically for extreme North American climate conditions, the Ford 6.7L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel offers exceptional cold-weather capabilities when properly maintained. Featuring an integrated 1,000-watt heating element inside the engine block, factory automatic cold-weather elevated idle features (which raise engine RPM to prevent fuel slobber and warm up coolant faster), and advanced powertrain control logic, the 6.7L Power Stroke is built to conquer Midwestern freezes. One of the key operational requirements during Kansas winters is selecting the correct oil viscosity. While standard 15W-40 conventional oil performs well during warm weather, switching to 5W-40 or 0W-40 full synthetic diesel engine oil (meeting Ford specification WSS-M2C171-F1) dramatically reduces oil pump cavitation and resistance on cold starts. Synthetic lubricants flow rapidly at -20°F, ensuring immediate lubrication to high-load turbocharger bearings and valvetrain components upon startup. Whether towing heavy machinery around Dickinson County or commuting to Fort Riley, maintaining proper fluid viscosities ensures your Super Duty executes rapid starts regardless of the weather. Interested in upgrading your vehicle? Explore our Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory or Browse Used Inventory online. Essential Winter Preventative Maintenance Checklist for 6.7L Power Stroke Owners Electrical & Batteries • Perform digital conductance load test on both batteries. • Clean terminal posts and apply anti-corrosion spray. • Verify starter drawdown amperage during cranking. • Inspect alternator output under full glow plug load. Fuel & Water Separator • Drain water separator valve into a glass container. • Replace dual Motorcraft fuel filters (every 15k miles). • Add anti-gel cetane booster treatment at fill-ups. • Check frame-mounted lift pump operating pressure. Engine Oils & Heating • Switch to API-CK-4 5W-40 full synthetic diesel oil. • Inspect engine block heater heating element resistance. • Verify block heater power cord for cracks or frays. • Test coolant freeze protection down to -35°F. Replacement Costs for Winter-Stressed Diesel Parts vs. Preventative Maintenance Costs Ignoring basic pre-winter maintenance on a 6.7L Power Stroke diesel can lead to substantial repair bills. When gelled fuel or water enters the High-Pressure Common Rail (HPCR) system, microscopic metal-to-metal abrasion can ruin the high-pressure pump, fuel rails, and piezoelectric injectors. Furthermore, extended cranking on weak batteries causes extreme heat buildup inside the starter motor, leading to sudden armature failure. Below is a side-by-side estimated cost breakdown contrasting affordable preventive maintenance measures with major reactive mechanical repairs caused by severe cold-weather operating damage. Service / Repair Item Preventative Cost Reactive Failure Cost Motorcraft Fuel Filters & Anti-Gel $95 - $180 $8,000 - $11,000 (HPCR Replacement) Dual Battery Replacement (AGM) $380 - $550 $650 - $900 (Starter + Towing + Batteries) 5W-40 Synthetic Oil Service $140 - $220 $1,200 - $2,500 (Turbocharger Wear Repair) Glow Plug System Maintenance $150 - $350 $800 - $1,400 (GPCM + Harness Burnout) Contact Us for Current Financing Information Best Practices for Using Block Heaters and Winter Grille Covers on Ford Super Duty Trucks The factory block heater built into the 6.7L Power Stroke is one of your best defenses against harsh Kansas freezes. However, leaving it plugged in all night is generally unnecessary and increases your electric bill. The internal 1,000-watt heating element warms engine coolant up to operating delta within 3 to 4 hours. Using a heavy-duty outdoor timer set to turn on 3 hours prior to your morning commute saves energy while ensuring instantaneous cab heat and rapid oil circulation. In addition, winter front grille covers are highly effective when ambient temperatures drop below 32°F. By restricting frigid airflow through the front radiator and charge air cooler (CAC), winter covers allow the diesel engine to reach its optimal operating temperature (around 190°F–210°F) much faster. Maintaining proper engine operating temperature prevents excess soot accumulation inside the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and stops 'fuel slobber' during extended idling sessions in Junction City. How 6.7L Power Stroke Output Figures Compare to Cummins and Duramax in Cold Climates Ford 6.7L Power Stroke HO • 500 HP / 1,200 lb-ft Torque • Fast Ceramic Glow Plugs • Quick Thermal Warm-up • Dual Cooling Circuit Design • Class-Leading Cold Power GM 6.6L Duramax Turbo V8 • 470 HP / 975 lb-ft Torque • Metal Glow Plug System • Microprocessor GPCM • Dual Alternator Option • Engine Block Heater Ram 6.7L Cummins High Output • 420 HP / 1,075 lb-ft Torque • Intake Grid Heater Element • Inline 6-Cylinder Design • Heavy Cast Iron Block • Slower Initial Warm-up While the 6.7L Power Stroke delivers industry-leading output of up to 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque, unlocking that massive towing performance in winter requires clean cold fuel delivery and swift cylinder pre-heating. Considering a new heavy-duty truck? Learn more by reading our Research Ford F-250 overview. Step-by-Step Diagnostic Guide for a Cold-Weather Crank-No-Start Diesel Engine If you wake up to sub-zero temperatures in Dickinson County and your 6.7L Power Stroke cranks slowly or refuses to fire, follow this methodical troubleshooting procedure: Step 1: Check Battery Voltage Under Load — Turn on ignition. If gauge drops below 10.5 volts while cranking, battery voltage is insufficient to trigger electronic injectors. Step 2: Monitor Glow Plug Light Cycle — Observe the coil icon on your digital dash display. If it stays lit for less than 1 second in freezing weather, a GPCM fault may exist. Step 3: Listen for Primary Lift Pump — Turn ignition to ON without cranking. Listen for the frame-rail fuel pump humming for 15-20 seconds. Silence indicates a blown fuse or frozen pump module. Step 4: Check Water Separator Drain — Inspect for gelled fuel or ice blockages at the yellow water drain valve on the lower frame rail filter housing. Trade In Evaluation Reliable Winter Diesel Truck Ownership in Junction City, Fort Riley, and Dickinson County Living and working in central Kansas demands uncompromised vehicle dependability. Agricultural operators hauling livestock around Dickinson County, commercial contractors working early mornings, and military personnel commuting to Fort Riley rely on their Ford Super Duty trucks to fire up faithfully no matter how low the mercury drops. By adhering to recommended service schedules, keeping fuel tanks above half-full to minimize condensation, using quality anti-gel treatments, and relying on genuine Motorcraft components, your 6.7L Power Stroke will remain a dependable winter workhorse year after year. If you're exploring vehicle options across the Ford lineup, feel free to check out our Research Ford F-150 page, review our versatile SUVs with Research Ford Explorer, or explore compact efficiency via Research Ford Maverick. For performance enthusiasts, you can also Research Ford Mustang. Whatever your automotive needs, Valor Ford is dedicated to keeping Kansas drivers safely on the road. Prepare Your 6.7L Power Stroke for Winter at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Inspect your battery and fuel filter before the first severe freeze to help avoid a weak battery or gelled fuel filter. The Ford factory-certified diesel technicians at Valor Ford are equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic software to test glow plug control modules, evaluate battery conductance under heavy load, and service fuel filtration systems. Conveniently located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd in Junction City, KS, we proudly serve truck owners from Fort Riley, Manhattan, Abilene, and all of Dickinson County. Click below to Get Directions to Valor Ford or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to book your appointment today. Schedule Ford Service Today

2026 Ford Explorer Active: Full Review for Kansas Families The 2026 Ford Explorer Active is the right three-row SUV for active families who need genuine all-wheel drive, 5,000 lbs of towing capacity, and a 300 hp EcoBoost engine starting at $42,450 — all in a cabin that seats six. It earns IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition and delivers 23 MPG combined, making it a practical daily driver and capable weekend hauler. For military families and working households near Fort Riley, it covers school runs, river trips, and farm-road towing without compromise. Research 2026 Ford Explorer How Well Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Meet the Needs of Families? The 2026 Ford Explorer Active is purpose-built for multi-generational, active families who need a three-row SUV that transitions effortlessly from weekday carpools to weekend adventures. With seating for six, about 16 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row, and a turbocharged 300 hp engine paired with standard all-wheel drive, the Active trim delivers a well-rounded package that genuinely earns its place in a busy household. Edmunds notes that if you're looking for athleticism out of a three-row SUV, the Explorer is a strong option, competitive with others in its class. Car and Driver echoes that sentiment, calling the Explorer a blend of family practicality with surprisingly engaging performance. These aren't empty compliments — the rear-wheel-drive-biased architecture that underpins the sixth-generation Explorer gives it a road feel that stands apart from the front-wheel-drive crossovers dominating this segment. The Explorer Active sits at an interesting position in the lineup. It is the trim designed for buyers who want a degree of outdoor-ready character without going all the way to the Tremor or ST. The Active 4WD configuration adds standard Intelligent 4WD to the mix, providing confidence on wet Kansas roads, gravel paths, and the gently rolling terrain surrounding the Kansas River corridor. Ford's broader lineup gives shoppers plenty of context. If your needs skew toward a compact truck, the 2026 Ford Maverick is worth a look. Heavy-duty towing demands point toward the 2026 Ford F-250 Super Duty or our Super Duty research guide. Those wanting a full-size workhorse should explore the 2026 Ford F-150, and performance enthusiasts can check out the 2026 Ford Mustang. But for a family that needs three rows, all-wheel drive, and modern technology in one package, the 2026 Ford Explorer Active stands alongside rivals like the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Chevrolet Traverse. Bold Exterior Design That Reflects Junction City's Military and Outdoor Lifestyle The 2026 Ford Explorer Active projects a stance that suits both the structured environment of Fort Riley and the open roads of the Kansas plains. At 198.7 inches long, 78.9 inches wide, and 70.2 inches tall, the Active carries a planted, upright profile that communicates capability without resorting to overstyling. The 119.1-inch wheelbase provides a stable, long-legged presence on the road. The Active trim distinguishes itself visually through its black roof rails — a detail that signals outdoor intent and provides the foundation for optional roof-rail crossbars, useful for carrying gear to the Kansas River or loading up for a weekend in the Flint Hills. Painted front and rear bumpers keep the exterior cohesive, while LED projector-beam headlights with automatic high-beam control and LED daytime running lights give the front end a modern, assertive face that reads well in both daylight and early-morning darkness. Exterior color choices for the Active include Avalanche Gray Metallic, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, and Space White Metallic. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford (VIN: 1FMUK8DH8TGB08366) arrives in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat — a clean, high-contrast finish that pairs well with the black mirror caps and roof rails. The optional 20-inch Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum Wheels, which that specific vehicle includes, sharpen the Active's visual edge considerably over the standard 18-inch alloys. For owners who want to personalize further, Valor Ford's genuine Ford parts and accessories department carries dealer-installed options including hood graphics in Matte or Ford Performance finishes, splash guards, and side window deflectors — all designed to complement the Active's outdoor-ready character. Order Genuine Ford Parts Power and Towing Capability Built for Kansas Roads and Weekend Adventures The 2026 Ford Explorer Active carries a single powertrain across both configurations: a turbocharged 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 producing 300 hp at 5,500 rpm and 310 lb-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm, paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. That torque figure is the number that matters most for daily driving and weekend hauling — it arrives early in the rev range and stays broad, which translates to confident acceleration when merging onto the highway or pulling away from a stop with a full load of passengers. Feature Active 4WD Active RWD Drivetrain All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive All Active trims share: Engine: 2.3L · Horsepower: 300 hp · Torque: 310 lb-ft · Transmission: SelectShift® The Active 4WD uses Ford's Intelligent 4WD system, which operates in full-time automatic mode — the system continuously monitors conditions and distributes torque between front and rear axles without any driver input required. For families navigating Junction City's occasional wet streets, early-morning dew on rural roads, or gravel paths leading to the Kansas River, that seamless AWD engagement is a genuine daily benefit rather than a feature reserved for extreme conditions. Towing capacity stands at 5,000 lbs with trailer towing preparation standard on the Active. That number is enough to haul a mid-size boat for a day on the water, pull a loaded utility trailer across Dickinson County's farm roads, or tow a small camper to a Flint Hills campsite. Payload capacity is rated at 1,467 lbs. The trailer stability program is also included, which uses sensors to detect and correct trailer sway before the driver even notices it — a meaningful safety feature when towing on open, wind-exposed Kansas highways. The suspension setup — independent MacPherson struts up front with coil springs and a multi-link independent rear with coil springs — prioritizes ride compliance and handling balance over truck-like stiffness. AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) and cornering brake control round out the chassis dynamics package. Ground clearance is 7.6 inches, with approach and departure angles of 19.7 degrees and 21.5 degrees respectively — adequate for the gently rolling terrain and gravel back roads common in this part of Kansas. The 17.9-gallon fuel tank and EPA-rated 23 MPG combined (20 city / 27 highway on the 4WD) deliver a calculated range of approximately 412 miles per fill, which makes the Explorer a practical choice for longer drives between communities. Spacious Interior Comfort Tailored for Families and Their Gear Six-passenger seating in a 2+2+2 captain's chair configuration is the standard layout for the Active trim, with an optional Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest available to expand to a 2+3+2 arrangement for seven occupants when a third-row-accessible bench is preferred. The captain's chair default gives second-row passengers their own dedicated space and makes third-row access easier for children — a practical advantage for families loading up after a school event or community gathering. Passenger dimensions across all three rows are quite spacious: Feature Active 4WD Active RWD The 39 inches of second-row legroom is competitive with other leading vehicles in the segment, and 40.5 inches of second-row headroom means taller passengers ride comfortably without feeling compressed. Third-row legroom of 32.2 inches is best suited for children or shorter adults — appropriate for the typical family configuration this trim targets. Cargo space behind the third row measures about 16 cu ft with all seats in place. Fold the rear seats and that figure expands to about 86 cu ft — enough to carry sports equipment, camping supplies, or military duffel bags for a family PCS move. The cargo area is 78.3 inches long, 64.5 inches wide, and 32.8 inches tall, with a 31.1-inch loading floor height that keeps heavy items manageable. The driver's seat offers 5-way power adjustment including electric height, reach, recline, tilt, and lumbar. The passenger seat comes standard with 2-way power adjustment; the optional Active Comfort Package (code 68A) upgrades the passenger seat to 4-way power adjustment and adds synthetic leather upholstery across both front seats, along with a heated steering wheel and LED front fog lights. Standard interior finishing includes alloy-look trim on the instrument panel, doors, and center floor console, plus a full floor console and partial overhead console. Three-zone automatic climate control keeps all three rows comfortable, with rear climate controls accessible to second-row passengers. Connected Technology That Keeps Pace with Military Schedules and Local Events A 13.2-inch center touchscreen paired with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster forms the core of the Active's technology package. Both displays are standard, and the infotainment system operates on a platform that supports over-the-air software updates — so the vehicle's operating system can be refreshed without a dealership visit, which matters for busy households that can't easily schedule downtime. Wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto are both standard, eliminating the need for cables when connecting a smartphone for navigation, music, or hands-free calls. The system also includes a built-in internet browser, a Google virtual assistant, and built-in apps. Bluetooth connectivity and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls round out the standard interface. Connectivity extends to the vehicle's embedded SIM card, which enables a standard 12-month Wi-Fi hotspot subscription. For families who need longer coverage, the optional Ford Connectivity Package (code 91D, a one-time purchase) extends online services and Wi-Fi hotspot access to 84 months — seven years of connected coverage without a recurring subscription. That's a meaningful benefit for military families who rotate assignments and want a predictable, subscription-free connectivity solution. USB charging is thorough throughout the cabin: 4 ports at the front, 2 at the second row, and 2 at the third row — 8 total — ensuring every passenger can keep devices charged on longer drives. Three 12V power outlets (front, rear, and cargo area) add flexibility for accessories and equipment. The FordPass remote services subscription (included for 12 months) enables remote lock and unlock, vehicle start, theft alert, vehicle diagnostics, find-my-car functionality, and the ability to send a destination directly to the navigation system from a smartphone. The 911 Assist telematics system automatically contacts emergency services in the event of a crash — a feature that provides real peace of mind for families driving rural routes near Fort Riley. Navigation is built in with satellite-view mapping, internet-connected data feeds, and a 12-month traffic information subscription. Intelligent Access with Push-button Start (PEPS) handles keyless entry and ignition. An optional Securicode Keyless Entry Keypad is available for those who prefer a door-mounted code entry. Schedule Ford Service Today Safety Features Designed for Protection on Local Drives and School Runs The 2026 Ford Explorer Active earns IIHS Top Safety Pick+ recognition for both 2025 and 2026, and NHTSA rates it at 5 stars overall — including 5-star frontal crash and 5-star side impact ratings, with a 4-star rollover rating. Those scores reflect a structural and airbag package that takes occupant protection seriously across all three rows. The airbag system includes 7 total airbags: dual front airbags for driver and passenger, front side airbags, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and a driver knee airbag. Pre-tensioner seatbelts with height adjustment are fitted at both front positions, and all three rows have dedicated seatbelts. LATCH child seat anchors are rated Acceptable by IIHS. Adjustable head restraints are present at all three row positions. Ford CoPilot360 Assist+ is the standard driver assistance suite on the Active. It includes adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability (branded Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist), automatic emergency braking that activates from as low as 3 mph, and low-speed front automatic braking. The Lane-Keeping System actively applies steering input to keep the vehicle within lane markings, and the system qualifies as SAE Level 2 partial automation — meaning it can manage both steering and speed simultaneously under appropriate highway conditions. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) monitors the adjacent lanes and alerts the driver to vehicles in the blind zone. Rear Cross Traffic Braking uses radar to detect cross traffic when reversing and can apply the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent — a particularly useful feature in busy school parking lots or crowded community event venues. Rear Parking Sensors and a rearview camera with guidance display are standard, and the automatic tailgate pull-down with memory position makes loading and unloading cargo straightforward. The AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) system, four-wheel ventilated disc brakes with ABS, brake assist, cornering brake control, hill holder, and electronic auto-hold parking brake complete a braking and stability package that is comprehensive for this class. The trailer stability program is also included, protecting against sway when towing. 2026 Ford Explorer Active Trim Pricing and Options for Buyers The Active trim is available in two configurations, with the key difference being the drivetrain: Feature Active 4WD Active RWD Base MSRP $42,450 $40,450 All Active trims share a destination charge of $1,695. The $2,000 premium for the 4WD configuration adds Ford's Intelligent 4WD system — full-time automatic all-wheel drive that requires no driver input. For buyers in Junction City who experience Kansas weather variability or regularly travel gravel roads, that upgrade represents straightforward value. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford (Stock #: 26FT128) is an Active 4WD in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat with the Active Comfort Package and 20-inch Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum Wheels already included — buyers can see exactly what's on the lot rather than speculating about build configurations. The Active Comfort Package (code 68A) is the one factory package available on the Active trim. It adds LED front fog lights, a 4-way power-adjustable front passenger seat (upgrading from the standard 2-way), synthetic leather seat upholstery on both front seats, and a heated steering wheel. This package meaningfully elevates the interior comfort level and is worth considering for buyers who spend significant time in the vehicle. Beyond the Comfort Package, notable standalone options include the Panoramic Fixed Glass Roof with Power Shade, 20-inch wheel upgrades in either Luster Nickel-Painted or Carbonized Gray-Painted Aluminum, the Ford Connectivity Package (7-year one-time purchase for extended Wi-Fi), SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan), a Securicode Keyless Entry Keypad, and the Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest for families who prefer a seven-passenger layout. Valor Ford also carries new Bronco inventory for buyers whose needs lean toward more dedicated off-road capability. For those ready to move forward on the Explorer, contact us for current financing information before you visit the showroom floor. Get Pre-Approved for Financing Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Support for Reliable Ownership Ford backs the 2026 Explorer Active with a 3-year / 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Corrosion protection coverage extends to 5 years with no stated mileage limit. Ford Roadside Assistance mirrors the powertrain warranty at 5 years / 60,000 miles — providing towing, lockout service, fuel delivery, and flat tire assistance throughout that period. For military families whose schedules don't always align with standard service hours, Valor Ford offers a vehicle pickup and delivery service that brings your Explorer in for maintenance without requiring you to leave Fort Riley or rearrange your day. When you're ready to book standard maintenance, oil changes, or recall work, scheduling Ford service through Valor Ford's online portal takes only a few minutes. The Explorer's over-the-air update capability means software improvements and feature enhancements can be delivered to the vehicle without a service visit — a modern ownership benefit that reduces the total number of dealership appointments needed over the life of the vehicle. The 12-month remote services subscription included at purchase covers vehicle diagnostics, so owners can monitor the vehicle's health status from their smartphone and address issues before they become larger problems. Valor Ford customers consistently highlight the team's responsiveness and professionalism. Justin Grabouski noted on Google, "Excellent customer service, great service, overall exceptional experience. They made everything easy and straightforward." That kind of ownership experience matters for busy military households who need a dealer partner they can rely on. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Explorer Active's Strengths IIHS Top Safety Pick+ 2025 & 2026 Highest Safety Rating NHTSA 5-Star Rating Overall Crash Test Excellence KBB Best Buy Award Ford Expedition (2026) NACTOY & MotorTrend Truck of the Year (Maverick 2026) The 2026 Ford Explorer holds IIHS Top Safety Pick+ status for both the 2025 and 2026 model years — the Institute's highest honor — reflecting consistent, year-over-year structural and safety performance. NHTSA's 5-star overall crash rating independently confirms the Explorer's position as one of the safest three-row SUVs in its class. Ford as a brand earned significant recognition in 2026 across its lineup. Kelley Blue Book awarded the Ford Expedition its Best Buy Award in the Full-Size SUV category, and the Ford Maverick earned both the North American Truck of the Year title from NACTOY and MotorTrend Truck of the Year honors for 2026 — demonstrating the depth of engineering capability across Ford's utility vehicle family. Car and Driver has consistently praised the Explorer's balance of practicality and driving engagement, noting that it blends family utility with surprisingly capable performance. Edmunds goes further, calling the Explorer the clear choice among three-row SUVs for buyers who prioritize steering feel and handling precision over raw bulk. These recognitions collectively paint a picture of a vehicle that doesn't ask buyers to trade driving enjoyment for family practicality — a balance that is harder to achieve than it sounds in the three-row segment, and one that the 2026 Explorer Active delivers at a starting MSRP that is competitively positioned for the segment. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature Active 4WD Active RWD MPG 20 city / 27 hwy / 23 combined 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Explorer Active Q: Does the 2026 Ford Explorer Active come with all-wheel drive standard? The Active trim is available in two drivetrain configurations. The Active 4WD at $42,450 includes Ford's Intelligent 4WD — a full-time automatic system that continuously distributes torque between axles without driver input. The Active RWD at $40,450 is rear-wheel drive. The in-stock unit at Valor Ford (Stock #: 26FT128) is the 4WD configuration. For buyers in the Junction City area who encounter variable weather or travel unpaved roads, the 4WD version is the more practical choice. Q: How much can the 2026 Ford Explorer Active tow? The Explorer Active is rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs with trailer towing preparation, which is included as standard equipment. Payload capacity is 1,467 lbs. The trailer stability program is also standard, using sensors to detect and automatically correct trailer sway. These figures make the Active capable of towing a mid-size boat, utility trailer, or small camper — practical for weekend recreation along the Kansas River or hauling equipment across rural roads. Q: What is the fuel economy of the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? EPA ratings for the Active 4WD are 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined, with a calculated range of 412 miles on the 17.9-gallon tank. The Active RWD returns slightly better numbers: 20 city / 29 highway / 24 combined, with a range of 430 miles. Both configurations run on regular 87-octane unleaded fuel. Q: How many passengers does the Explorer Active seat, and can it fit seven? The standard configuration seats 6 in a 2+2+2 captain's chair layout. An optional Second Row Bench With E-Z Entry and Armrest (code 17U) expands seating to a 2+3+2 arrangement for seven occupants. The bench option also adds a center rear seatbelt position. Families who regularly transport more than six people should specify this option at the time of order. Q: Where can I see the 2026 Ford Explorer Active in person? Valor Ford has a 2026 Explorer Active in stock at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441 (Stock #: 26FT128, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Active 4WD with Comfort Package and 20-inch wheels). You can also reach the sales team directly at (785) 238-5114 to confirm availability, ask about current inventory, or browse our used vehicle inventory if a pre-owned option fits your budget better. If you have a vehicle to sell or trade, you can also get an estimate on your current vehicle's value before you arrive. Ready to Experience the 2026 Ford Explorer Active? Trade In Evaluation Browse Used Inventory Get Pre-Approved © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved. Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

How Ford Onboard Scales Measure Real-Time Payload on the 2025 F-150 and Super Duty For generations, truck owners across Dickinson County and Geary County have estimated bed payload through visual checks—watching how far the rear leaf springs crouch or feeling how heavy the steering becomes when hauling a bed full of gravel, seed bags, or fencing supplies. With the introduction of Ford Onboard Scales on the 2025 Ford F-150 and Super Duty lineup, guessing payload weight is officially a thing of the past. This system helps you monitor payload weight in real time and provides helpful feedback before you shift into drive. The system operates through four discrete position sensors integrated directly into all four corners of the truck suspension. By measuring the physical deflection of the suspension springs relative to the chassis frame rails, the vehicle's onboard processing module cross-references sensor data against known suspension spring constants and calibrated curb weight constants. The precise weight calculation is instantly output across three dynamic interfaces: the vertical LED bars on the Smart Taillights, the 12-inch SYNC 4 central touchscreen, and remotely via the FordPass mobile smartphone app. Whether you are loading bulk grain at an auger in rural Kansas or stacking heavy palleted equipment near Fort Riley, Ford Onboard Scales deliver instantaneous feedback so you know exact cargo weights down to the pound. To explore how these heavy-duty technology suites integrate into the newest truck lineup, drivers can Research Ford F-150 models or compare heavy commercial specs through our dedicated Research Ford F-250 guide before visiting Valor Ford in Junction City. The Engineering Behind Ford's Suspension Sensors and Real-Time Weight Tracking At the mechanical core of Ford Onboard Scales are rotary position sensors mounted between the axle housings and the frame structure at each wheel position. These hardware components are similar to the height-leveling sensors utilized by Ford's adaptive headlamps and continuous damping suspension systems. When cargo, tools, or aggregate materials are deposited into the truck bed, the springs compress, causing a linear movement in the sensor linkage arms. The central processing software takes this raw vertical displacement data and runs mathematical algorithms that account for ambient temperature, suspension bushing resistance, and initial vehicle curb weight. By subtracting calibrated curb weight from the gross measured weight, the system isolates net payload mass instantly. Because weight distribution is rarely uniform across the bed floor, having independent sensor channels on all four corners allows the vehicle control module to calculate lateral and longitudinal balance. If a heavy generator or skid of fertilizer is loaded too far toward the tailgate or off-center to the left rail, the system detects uneven axle loading and warns the operator. Furthermore, dynamic filtering algorithms prevent false weight readings caused by fuel sloshing, wind buffeting, or movement inside the cab while loading. Once the truck comes to a complete rest on level ground, the system stabilizes within seconds, providing accurate feedback comparable to many commercial weighing tools. Reading Your Payload Weight: Smart Taillights, SYNC 4, and the FordPass App Ford designed the Onboard Scale interaction model around real-world work environments where operators cannot constantly walk back into the vehicle cab to inspect numbers while working outside in the yard or field. 1. Smart Taillights Bar Graph Integrated directly into the rear LED taillight assemblies are four vertical LED light strips. As you toss cargo into the bed, these LED bars illuminate progressively from bottom to top like a battery charge indicator. Each bar represents 25% of total payload capacity. When all four LEDs light up continuously, your truck is fully loaded. If you exceed maximum payload capacity, the top LED strip blinks rapidly to alert forklift operators or field hands immediately. 2. SYNC 4 Touchscreen Interface Inside the cabin, the 12-inch SYNC 4 central display provides detailed digital metrics. Drivers can view exact weight readouts in pounds or kilograms, check percentage of maximum vehicle capacity, and observe balance indicators showing if cargo weight favors the front, rear, driver, or passenger side. The system automatically accounts for passenger weight sitting inside the vehicle cab to maintain total Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) compliance. 3. FordPass Mobile App Remote View Using the FordPass application on your smartphone, operators can monitor bed scale readouts remotely while operating farm machinery, skid steers, or grain augers. You can stand yards away from the truck tailgate while watching live weight progression on your phone screen, eliminating the need to climb down from agricultural machinery or run back and forth to inspect payload status. Can You Scale Individual Payload Items Sequentially Using Scale Zeroing? Yes, one of the most practical real-world features engineered into Ford Onboard Scales is the **Scale Zeroing** (tare) function, accessible directly through the SYNC 4 touchscreen screen or FordPass smartphone interface. Much like pressing the zero button on a digital kitchen scale or commercial shipping scale, scale zeroing resets the baseline reading back to zero pounds regardless of how much equipment or tools are already resting in the bed. For agricultural producers or contractors making multi-stop pickup runs across Junction City, scale zeroing provides incredible precision. Suppose your F-150 or Super Duty is already loaded with 800 pounds of jobsite toolboxes, auxiliary diesel tanks, and hitch gear. By activating Scale Zeroing, the system temporarily ignores that 800-pound baseline and resets the display to 0 lbs. Now, when you add a specific pallet of seed bags, fence posts, or concrete mix, the scale display measures *only* the new item being loaded. You can verify whether the supplier gave you exactly 500 lbs of seed or 1,200 lbs of fertilizer before leaving the supply yard. Once loading is complete, toggling off zero mode restores your total cumulative payload calculation relative to total GVWR limits. If you want to evaluate your current truck payload or trade in your vehicle for a model with built-in scale zeroing technology, complete our easy online Trade In Evaluation to see what your vehicle is worth today. Evaluate Your Trade-In Online Smart Agricultural Hauling: How Ford's Onboard Scales Protect Your Payload in Rural Kansas Agricultural operations around Dickinson County, Geary County, and the surrounding Flint Hills farm country rely on heavy-duty pickup trucks to keep farms running efficiently. During harvest seasons and spring planting, farm trucks routinely haul dense bulk loads: loose corn, oats, bulk soybean seed, liquid tote containers, mineral blocks, and fencing supplies. Estimating dense agricultural cargo is notoriously difficult; moisture content alone can cause a scoop of soil or grain to weigh hundreds of pounds more than anticipated. Ford Onboard Scales can serve as a helpful safeguard for Kansas farmers. Loading directly from grain augers or gravity wagons often leads to unintended overloading. Overloaded trucks traveling down rural gravel roads face extreme leaf spring strain, bent axle housings, and severe tire sidewall damage. When transitioning onto paved state highways like Highway 77 or I-70, an over-payload truck risks heavy fines from highway patrol commercial scale spot-checks and compromised stopping distances. By utilizing live Smart Taillight indicators during field loading, farm hands can signal the auger operator to shut off grain flow the instant the fourth light bar illuminates. This eliminates wasteful trips back to central elevator scales to dump off excess load and keeps farm equipment running smoothly within factory structural thresholds. How Does the Accuracy of Ford's Factory Onboard Scales Compare to Aftermarket Air Scales? Commercial fleet operators and truck enthusiasts often ask how Ford's factory-integrated sensor setup compares against traditional aftermarket pneumatic air bag scales or aftermarket strain gauge systems. Here is a direct technical comparison across key operational categories: Feature / Metric Ford Factory Onboard Scales Aftermarket Pneumatic Air Scales Measurement Method Direct 4-Corner Optical/Position Suspension Sensors Air Pressure Transducers in Helper Springs System Accuracy High Precision (+/- 50 lbs under level conditions) Moderate (+/- 150-300 lbs, varies with temperature) Display Integration SYNC 4 Screen, Smart Taillights, FordPass App Auxiliary Dash Gauges or Standalone Bluetooth Apps Maintenance Needed Zero Maintenance (Factory Sealed Units) Requires Air Line Maintenance & Pressure Zeroing Warranty Coverage Full 3-Yr/36k-Mi Factory Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty Aftermarket Manufacturer Limited Warranty Factory Integration Ford factory scales require no spliced wiring harnesses, aftermarket gauge pods drilled into your dashboard, or external air compressors. Everything communicates directly over the truck high-speed CAN bus computer network. Precision Calibration Unlike pneumatic helper springs whose pressure fluctuates wildly with ambient Kansas temperature changes, Ford position sensors measure exact physical spring deflection, eliminating thermal reading drift. Factory Warranty Protection Because Onboard Scales are standard or factory-installed options from Ford Motor Company, every sensor and module is covered under your factory warranty with support at Valor Ford. How Onboard Scales Reduce Maintenance Costs and Axle Wear for Farm and Fleet Trucks Operating a commercial truck or agricultural fleet past its rated gross vehicle weight causes rapid, compound mechanical degradation. Overloaded trucks put excess stress on rear leaf springs, coil springs, shock absorbers, and axle bearings. Repeated overload cycles lead to sagging rear suspensions, hair-line frame cracks, premature brake pad glazing, and severe transmission fluid overheating. By providing real-time load visibility, Ford Onboard Scales help prevent accidental overload events. Over a 5-year fleet lifecycle in Junction City or Fort Riley, preventing structural overload cuts unexpected suspension repairs and brake wear costs by an estimated 25% to 35%. Fleet managers can enforce strict safety limits without slowing down jobsite productivity. Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service When routine service or replacement wear parts are required for your work trucks, our technicians are ready. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today or order factory replacement components directly through our team to Order Genuine Ford Parts. Combining Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch for Perfect Trailer Tongue Weight Onboard Scales do not work in isolation—they pair seamlessly with Ford's available **Smart Hitch** technology. While payload scales measure cargo placed directly inside the bed, Smart Hitch measures the downward force (tongue weight) exerted by a connected trailer onto the receiver ball. Proper tongue weight ratio (typically 10% to 15% of total loaded trailer weight) is critical for preventing violent highway trailer sway. When coupling a livestock trailer, flatbed equipment trailer, or camper to your 2025 F-150 or Super Duty, Smart Hitch displays real-time tongue weight status on the SYNC 4 screen. It explicitly guides you to move cargo forward or backward on the trailer floor until optimal tongue weight balance is achieved. Combining live bed payload calculations with live Smart Hitch tongue weight data gives drivers total visibility over Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Whether you are hauling cattle up Highway 77 or towing heavy equipment along I-70 through Kansas crosswinds, this integrated tech suite can help support towing stability. To see how Smart Hitch and Onboard Scales perform together on new inventory models, check out our current inventory options or Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory and truck lineups at Valor Ford. Which 2025 F-150 and Super Duty Trims Include Onboard Scales? 2025 F-150 Trims On the 2025 Ford F-150, Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch come standard on high-tier luxury trims including King Ranch and Platinum. It is available as an optional tech package on Lariat, Tremor, and select XLT high-equipment configurations. 2025 Super Duty Trims For Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks, Onboard Scales are standard equipment on King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited trims. On XL and XLT commercial fleet trims, it can be ordered with the High-Capacity Trailer Tow Package. Used & Fleet Options Looking for pre-owned models equipped with Smart Hitch or scale technology? You can Browse Used Inventory across our pre-owned truck inventory at Valor Ford to find late-model heavy-duty options. Can Kansas Commercial Sales Teams Help Configure Ford Trucks with the Right Onboard Scales and Towing Packages? Navigating package options, axle ratios, payload package codes, and gross combined weight ratings can be complex. The experienced commercial sales specialists at Valor Ford consult daily with Kansas agricultural producers, local construction fleets, and Fort Riley defense contractors to configure trucks tailored to their specific operational demands. Our team analyzes your typical cargo requirements, trailer weight requirements, and terrain demands to ensure your new F-150 or Super Duty comes equipped with the exact scale technology and towing packages needed. We also offer tailored commercial lending solutions and fleet purchasing assistance. To get started on your purchase or custom order, submit an application online to Contact Us for Financing Information in just a few simple steps. Apply for Commercial Credit Pre-Approval Step-by-Step Checklist for Loading and Scaling Agricultural Gear Safely Follow this practical 5-step operational checklist whenever loading heavy agricultural equipment, seed pallets, or aggregate material into your Ford truck bed: 1. **Park on Level Ground:** Park the truck on a flat, level surface in the yard or field with the transmission in Park and the engine running so sensor readings remain continuous. 2. **Zero the Scale (If Needed):** If you wish to weigh only the new cargo item, access the SYNC 4 screen or FordPass app and activate the Scale Zeroing tare feature. 3. **Monitor Smart Taillights:** Have ground personnel observe the LED Smart Taillights while loading. Stop loading once the 4th solid light bar illuminates. 4. **Verify Left/Right Balance:** Check the SYNC 4 touchscreen to ensure cargo weight is distributed evenly between the left and right bed rails to avoid uneven tire wear. 5. **Check Smart Hitch Tongue Weight:** If towing a trailer simultaneously, review Smart Hitch measurements to confirm tongue weight falls within the recommended green zone. To maintain optimal suspension alignment and sensor accuracy over years of heavy use, rely on our certified master technicians. You can easily Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service for routine vehicle maintenance without disrupting your work day. Test Drive and Experience Ford Onboard Scales at Valor Ford in Junction City, KS Nothing compares to experiencing Ford's cutting-edge truck technology in person. The sales team at Valor Ford invites farm operators, fleet managers, and truck owners across Junction City, Manhattan, Abilene, and Fort Riley to visit our showroom and test drive a 2025 Ford F-150 or Super Duty equipped with Onboard Scales and Smart Hitch. During your visit, our truck experts will gladly demonstrate live payload scaling, walk you through SYNC 4 menu features, help evaluate your current trade-in, and guide you through available inventory options. Visit our dealership located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. Need driving instructions? Get Directions to Valor Ford directly on Google Maps, or give our sales team a phone call today at Call us at (785) 238-5114. Browse New Ford Truck Inventory

2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E vs 2026 Ford Mustang Choosing between a cutting-edge electric crossover and a traditional high-performance sports coupe represents one of the most exciting decisions in the modern automotive landscape. While both vehicles proudly wear the iconic pony badge, they serve vastly different lifestyles, balancing raw emotional power with everyday family utility. This comprehensive comparison explores how these two distinct engineering philosophies perform, protect, and deliver value for local drivers. Why Junction City Drivers Are Choosing Between the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E and Mustang Many of our customers who visit our showroom find themselves at a fascinating crossroads, balancing the practical demands of family life with a deep-seated passion for American performance heritage. Under its global platform, Ford is executing a disciplined shift toward purposeful, lifestyle-driven enablement, emphasizing the power of choice across diverse powertrains. This strategic pivot allows buyers to select the exact level of utility and performance they need. The 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E is positioned as a stylish, tech-forward entry in the midsize electric crossover segment, bridging the gap between zero-emission family transit and engaging driving dynamics. Meanwhile, the traditional 2026 Ford Mustang coupe remains the definitive guardian of classic sports-car thrills, appealing to drivers who prioritize mechanical feel and track-bred capability. For active households, military professionals, and daily commuters, deciding between these two models involves comparing their distinct trim structures and price points. The Mustang Mach-E lineup features the efficient Premium RWD starting at a base MSRP of $40,595, the versatile Premium AWD at $43,595, and the high-performance GT AWD at $53,890, with all trims sharing a destination charge of $2,045. The Mustang coupe offers the approachable EcoBoost starting at a base MSRP of $32,995, the upgraded EcoBoost Premium at $36,345, and the extreme, track-focused Dark Horse at $64,080, with a shared destination charge of $1,995. If you are ready to make the switch, our team can help you value your trade-in to see how your current vehicle's equity can transition seamlessly into a new model. Value Your Trade Engine & Performance Powertrain specs by trim Specification 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E 2026 Ford Mustang Engine Dual Motor 5.0L Horsepower 480 hp 500 hp Torque 600 lb-ft 418 lb-ft Transmission single-speed 10-speed automatic Drivetrain All-wheel drive Rear-wheel drive Performance That Powers Your Flint Hills Weekend Drives Have you ever wondered how an advanced all-electric dual-motor setup compares to a traditional high-output combustion engine when navigating rolling hills and scenic highway stretches? The Mustang Mach-E GT AWD utilizes an advanced Dual Motor configuration to generate a thrilling 480 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque, routed through a seamless single-speed transmission. Enthusiasts can elevate this output further with the optional Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Upgrade (package code 41G, priced at $1,295), which increases maximum torque to a staggering 700 lb-ft and enables a blistering 0-60 mph sprint in just 3.3 seconds. For everyday driving, the Mach-E's low-slung battery pack and instant electric torque deliver confident, linear acceleration and exceptional stability. In contrast, the Mustang Dark Horse coupe represents the pinnacle of standard production combustion performance, featuring a modified fourth-generation 5.0L Coyote V8 engine that pumps out 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent exclusively to the rear wheels via a rapid-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, delivering a classic rear-wheel-drive sports-car experience complete with a thumping exhaust note. For those seeking an efficient yet spirited daily driver, the Mustang EcoBoost trims utilize a turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine to produce a highly capable 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. While the Mustang coupe delivers unmatched mechanical drama and track-day precision, the Mach-E's available dual-motor all-wheel-drive system provides superior year-round traction and effortless acceleration that is better suited for handling diverse weather conditions and gravel back roads. Browse New Inventory Cargo Space Perfect for Northeast Kansas Family Outings and Outdoor Gear Working with families has shown me that everyday usability is often decided in the cargo bay and the rear seats, where real-world gear must fit without compromise. The Mustang Mach-E is built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform that maximizes interior volume, providing comfortable seating for 5 occupants and a highly versatile about 30 cu ft of rear cargo space behind the second row. To enhance outdoor utility, buyers can equip the Mach-E with the optional Frunk - Drainable (package code 76B, priced at $495), which adds a molded waterproof plastic front-trunk storage liner with an integrated bottom drain plug—an ideal space for packing ice and cold beverages for weekend picnics or storing muddy hiking boots after a trail run. The Mustang coupe, designed with a classic fastback silhouette, prioritizes driver-centric sports-car proportions, offering a 4 -passenger seating configuration and a more compact about 13.5 cu ft trunk. Reflecting its lightweight performance focus, the Mustang Dark Horse has a curb weight of 3,949 lbs, compared to the Mach-E GT AWD 's solid curb weight of 4,952 lbs. The Mach-E Premium RWD trim also provides a practical payload capacity of 890 lbs to handle heavy cargo loads. For active households that regularly carry strollers, groceries, and sports equipment, the Mach-E's spacious cabin, elevated ride height, and superior cargo flexibility make it the far more practical choice for daily family duties. Dimensions & Capacity Capacity and dimensions by trim Specification 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E 2026 Ford Mustang Seating 5 4 Cargo 29.7 cu ft 13.5 cu ft Curb weight 4,952 lbs 3,949 lbs Payload 890 lbs — Towing — Not rated Fuel Efficiency and Electric Range That Fit Manhattan Campus Commutes With the rising cost of daily travel, matching your vehicle's energy consumption to your daily routine has never been more critical. The Mustang Mach-E GT AWD features a high-capacity 91 kWh battery pack that delivers an EPA-estimated EV range of 280 miles, allowing commuters to travel back and forth for days without needing to plug in. For those seeking maximum electric range, the Premium RWD trim utilizes a 73 kWh battery to deliver 260 miles of range, while the Premium AWD variant provides 240 miles of driving distance. The convenience of overnight home charging means Mach-E owners can start every morning with a 'full tank' of electric range, completely bypassing public fueling stations. On the combustion side, the Mustang Dark Horse with its high-performance 5.0L V8 is rated at an EPA-estimated 14 city / 22 hwy / 17 combined MPG, reflecting its track-oriented engineering. For drivers seeking a more efficient traditional coupe, the EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium trims utilize a turbocharged 2.3L engine to achieve a highly efficient 22 city / 33 hwy / 26 combined MPG. While the EcoBoost coupe offers excellent highway range for long-distance travel, the Mach-E's zero-emission electric powertrain delivers unmatched daily efficiency and substantial long-term fuel savings. You can explore our current new-vehicle inventory to find the exact range and battery configuration that matches your driving habits. Specification 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E 2026 Ford Mustang EV range 280 miles — Battery (kWh) 91 — MPG — 14 city / 22 hwy / 17 combined Get Pre-Approved Technology Features That Simplify Daily Life for Professionals One of the first things you will notice when stepping inside either cabin is how Ford has seamlessly integrated cutting-edge digital interfaces to keep you connected and informed. The Mustang Mach-E features a massive, vertically oriented 15.5-inch Portrait Center Touchscreen with SYNC 4A and a sleek 10.2-inch Digital Instrument Cluster Display directly in the driver's line of sight. Audiophiles will appreciate the standard B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen, which delivers immersive sound through 10 speakers including a subwoofer. Standard integration includes Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto and a wireless charging pad. Buyers can also opt for the Ford Connectivity Package (package code 50B, priced at $745), which bundles connected navigation with real-time routing, an unlimited 5G/4G Wi-Fi hotspot, and in-car streaming capabilities while parked. The Mustang coupe counters with a driver-focused cockpit featuring a 12.4-Inch LCD Digital Instrument Cluster and a 13.2-Inch Centerstack Touchscreen with SYNC 4. To create a seamless, high-tech visual interface, buyers of the EcoBoost Premium and Dark Horse trims can select the optional Magnesium Framed Curved Glass Display (package code 52V, priced at $1,000), which houses both screens behind a single sheet of premium glass. While both vehicles offer exceptional connectivity, the Mach-E's larger vertical screen, advanced EV-specific trip planning software, and standard over-the-air updates make it the ultimate high-tech mobile environment for busy professionals on the go. Safety Designed for Military Families and University Communities Imagine navigating a sudden winter storm or a busy highway corridor where unpredictable road conditions demand immediate vehicle intervention. The Mustang Mach-E GT AWD comes standard with Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 with BlueCruise hands-free highway driving technology (optional on Premium trims via the Technology Package, package code 52M, priced at $1,495). Standard active safety systems include a 360-Degree Camera System, Pre-Collision Assist with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) & Intersection Assist, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and Reverse Brake Assist. Passive protection is anchored by a comprehensive Airbag System with 10 Airbags, helping the Mach-E earn a coveted Top Safety Pick rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Mustang coupe features standard Ford Co-Pilot360 with Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, BLIS, and Lane-Keeping System. The Dark Horse trim also includes an Active Anti-Theft System with intrusion and inclination sensors for maximum security. While both vehicles are engineered to protect their occupants, the Mach-E's advanced driver-assist systems, higher seating position, and standard all-wheel-drive traction provide superior peace of mind during daily family commutes and long highway road trips. Top Safety Pick Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) BlueCruise Hands-Free Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 10 Airbags Comprehensive Cabin Protection Reliable Coverage Tailored for Active Lifestyles in Northeast Kansas When I'm helping buyers navigate the transition to an electric vehicle, explaining the long-term ownership protections and manufacturer-backed support is key to building complete confidence. Both the Mustang Mach-E and the Mustang coupe are backed by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty package, including a 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. The Mach-E adds a specialized 8-year/100,000-mile warranty on its high-voltage battery components, ensuring long-term peace of mind for EV owners. To keep your vehicle running at peak performance, you can easily schedule a service appointment online with our certified technicians. For quick maintenance tasks like tire rotations or fluid checks, our dedicated express service lane provides rapid turnaround with no appointment necessary. Should your vehicle ever require replacement components or specialized accessories, our fully stocked parts department supplies genuine OEM parts designed specifically for your model. Schedule Service Express Lane Parts Department Pricing Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles. 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E Trim MSRP 2026 Ford Mustang Trim MSRP Premium RWD $40,595 EcoBoost $32,995 Premium AWD $43,595 EcoBoost Premium $36,345 GT AWD $53,890 Dark Horse $64,080 Answers to Your Top Questions About Owning a Mustang or Mach-E Choosing between these two legendary nameplates often comes down to matching your daily driving habits with your long-term vehicle goals. Here are the answers to the most common questions shoppers ask when comparing these two exceptional models. Is the 2026 Ford Mustang Mach-E worth the price premium over the Mustang EcoBoost? Yes, for families and daily commuters who need year-round versatility, the Mach-E's standard five-passenger seating, expansive cargo space, and available all-wheel drive provide immense practical value. Additionally, the long-term savings on fuel and reduced maintenance costs associated with an electric vehicle quickly help offset the initial purchase price. Which vehicle has more cargo space for active families? The Mach-E is the clear winner in terms of utility, offering about 30 cu ft of rear cargo space compared to the Mustang coupe's about 13.5 cu ft trunk. The Mach-E also features a unique, drainable front trunk (frunk) that is perfect for storing wet gear or ice, making it far better suited for family road trips and outdoor adventures. Can the 2026 Ford Mustang handle winter driving? While the Mustang's rear-wheel-drive setup is engineered for dry-weather performance and driver engagement, the Mach-E's available dual-motor all-wheel-drive system provides superior traction and confidence on slick, snow-covered roads, making it the more dependable option for winter driving. How do I get pre-approved for financing on these models? You can contact our team to learn more about current financing options through our secure application portal. If you want to compare these vehicles in person, we invite you to visit our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441. You can also give our friendly team a quick call at (785) 238-5114 to ask questions or set up a personalized demonstration. Beyond our new models, you can browse our high-quality used-vehicle listings to find great value on pre-owned options. For local business owners looking to expand their operations, we also maintain a dedicated commercial vehicle inventory tailored to meet vocational demands. New Inventory Get Pre-Approved Used Listings Commercial Vehicles © 2026 Valor CDJR. All rights reserved.

2026 Ford Mustang Trims, Specs, and Pricing Guide The 2026 Ford Mustang stands as the last true American rear-wheel-drive sports coupe in its class, and it arrives with a lineup spanning five distinct trims that cover everything from turbocharged daily driving to track-ready V8 dominance. This guide breaks down every trim, every key spec, and every meaningful package option so you can walk into Valor Ford knowing exactly which Mustang fits your life. Why Dickinson County Drivers Are Excited About the 2026 Ford Mustang Lineup Few vehicles carry the cultural weight of the Mustang, and the 2026 model year makes a compelling case for why this coupe remains the benchmark for accessible American performance. For buyers across the region, the lineup's breadth is the real story. The full 2026 Mustang model overview reveals five distinct trims, each engineered for a different kind of driver, from the fuel-conscious daily commuter to the track-weekend enthusiast. All five trims seat four passengers and share about 13.5 cu ft trunk, which is genuinely useful for weekend gear. Curb weights and towing figures, however, tell a more nuanced story about how each trim is positioned: Feature Dark Horse EcoBoost EcoBoost Premium GT GT Premium Curb weight 3,949 lbs 3,588 lbs 3,588 lbs 3,827 lbs 3,827 lbs Towing Not rated 1,000 lbs 1,000 lbs 1,000 lbs — All trims share: Seating: 4 · Cargo: about 13.5 cu ft The EcoBoost trims' 1,000 lb towing rating makes them surprisingly practical for light trailer use, while the Dark Horse is purpose-built for performance rather than utility. Whether a buyer is weighing the Mustang against a 2026 Ford Explorer for family versatility, or comparing it to a 2026 Ford F-150 for a secondary weekend vehicle, understanding these capacity differences matters. For those who need serious hauling alongside their performance purchase, Valor Ford also carries the 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 and the 2026 Ford Maverick for compact truck utility. And if off-road adventure is part of the picture, the Ford Bronco Badlands rounds out the performance-oriented Ford lineup nicely. The Mustang, though, occupies a category entirely its own: a rear-wheel-drive coupe with genuine sports car credentials, priced competitively. J.D. Power recognized the Mustang as the Highest Ranked Sporty Car in its 2026 U.S. Initial Quality Study, a signal that Ford has refined this generation into something buyers can trust for the long haul. Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory Bold Exterior Styling of the 2026 Ford Mustang Tailored for Local Roads Pull up to the Geary County Historical Museum or cruise past the historic storefronts of downtown Junction City, and the Mustang's exterior makes a statement that no crossover can replicate. The 2026 model's long hood, fastback roofline, and wide rear haunches are unmistakably Mustang, yet each trim wears the body differently. The EcoBoost starts with LED projector headlamps featuring black bezels and LED signature lighting, paired with LED sequential taillights. Body-color side mirrors with manual folding and rain-sensing windshield wipers round out a clean, purposeful exterior. The GT steps up with a functional hood vent, a high-gloss black front grille, and a GT-specific dual exhaust featuring dual 3.5-inch tips that announce the 5.0L V8 before you even see the badges. The Dark Horse takes a different visual path entirely. Its Tarnished Dark-painted upper grille with a Pony badge, Tarnished Dark anodized mirror caps, and integrated hood vent give it a sinister, purposeful look that communicates performance intent at a glance. The standard performance rear spoiler, painted Tarnish Dark, and summer-only performance tires on 19-inch Tarnished Dark-painted low-gloss aluminum wheels complete a stance that looks at home on the Flint Hills' open stretches as much as on a road course. All five trims offer optional exterior personalization. The Matte Wrap ($5,995) applies a factory satin matte clear protective film over the entire exterior, providing paint protection against rock chips and minor abrasions while delivering a premium non-gloss finish. The Mustang Nite Pony Package ($1,960) is available on EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, GT, and GT Premium, adding Ebony Black-painted wheels, black mirror caps, black pony badges, and a painted black roof. The Bronze Appearance Package ($1,195) swaps in Sinister Bronze-painted wheels and matching bronze badging for a warmer, more distinctive look. For buyers who want to protect their investment, genuine Ford OEM parts and accessories are available through Valor Ford's parts department, ensuring any exterior upgrades or replacements maintain factory fit and finish. The powertrain varies significantly by trim, and those differences are worth understanding before choosing a configuration: Feature Dark Horse EcoBoost EcoBoost Premium GT GT Premium Engine 5.0L 2.3L 2.3L 5.0L 5.0L Horsepower 500 hp 315 hp 315 hp 480 hp 480 hp Torque 418 lb-ft 350 lb-ft 350 lb-ft 415 lb-ft 415 lb-ft Transmission 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 10-speed automatic 6-speed manual 6-speed manual All trims share: Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive Performance Highlights of the 2026 Ford Mustang Trims Enthusiasts Here is the honest truth about what separates these five trims at the mechanical level, because the spec sheet differences are not minor. EcoBoost Performance The EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium share a 2.3L turbocharged four-cylinder producing 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. A 3.15 limited-slip rear axle is standard, with electronic line-lock and launch control included for track-day use. The EcoBoost's fuel economy advantage is real: 22 city / 33 hwy / 26 combined MPG, making it the sensible choice for buyers who want the Mustang's styling and rear-wheel-drive dynamics without a fuel bill that climbs every week. GT Performance The GT and GT Premium bring the 5.0L Coyote V8 with 480 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. Standard transmission is a 6-speed manual with rev matching, which is a significant and deliberate choice by Ford — this is a driver's car in the traditional sense. A 10-speed SelectShift automatic is available at no additional cost via the Equipment Group 44U option. The GT's 3.55 limited-slip rear axle, four-wheel disc brakes with four-piston front calipers, and selectable drive modes give it genuine sports car credentials. The optional GT Performance Package ($5,660) transforms the GT into a near-track weapon: it adds Brembo 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes with black calipers, 19-inch Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels with 255/40R19 front and 275/40R19 rear summer-only tires, an electric hand-operated drift brake, a K-brace, heavy-duty front springs, an upsized rear sway bar, a TORSEN limited-slip rear axle, and unique chassis, stability control, EPAS, and ABS tuning. That is a comprehensive track-prep kit with substantial performance equipment. Dark Horse Performance The Dark Horse sits in a category of its own. Its modified Gen-4 5.0L Coyote V8 produces 500 hp and 418 lb-ft of torque — 20 hp more than the GT — through a 10-speed SelectShift automatic. Standard equipment includes Brembo 6-piston front and 4-piston rear brake calipers with performance linings, a TORSEN 3.55-ratio limited-slip rear differential, a MagneRide Damping System, engine oil and transmission and differential coolers, an active valve performance exhaust with quad black-finish tips, a silver-painted strut-tower brace with a Dark Horse badge, and an underhood K-brace. Electronic line-lock and launch control are standard. The optional Dark Horse Handling Package ($5,495) pushes the chassis further still, adding wider 19x10.5 front and 19x11 rear Tarnished Dark-painted wheels, 305/30R19 and 315/30R19 extreme summer-only performance tires, adjustable strut top mounts, a performance front aero splitter, a performance rear spoiler with a Shadow Black-painted Gurney flap, and a MagneRide system with revised chassis tuning. Fuel economy reflects the performance priorities: the GT returns 15 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined, while the Dark Horse delivers 14 city / 22 hwy / 17 combined. For drivers who cover open Kansas plains highways regularly, the EcoBoost's 33 MPG highway figure is a meaningful practical advantage. Road & Track noted that the Mustang "feels honed and modern without straying too far from the public's perception of what a Mustang should look like," a sentiment that applies equally to the way Ford has tuned each trim for its intended audience. Contact us for current financing options Interior Comfort and Space in the 2026 Ford Mustang for Family Life A common misconception about the Mustang is that it sacrifices practicality for performance. The reality is more nuanced. All five trims seat four passengers and offer about 13.5 cu ft of trunk space, which is sufficient for a weekend's worth of gear for two or a full set of luggage for a short trip. The 50/50 split-bench folding rear seat expands cargo capacity when rear passengers are not aboard, a genuine convenience for buyers who use the Mustang as their primary vehicle. Seating materials and comfort features differ meaningfully by trim. The EcoBoost starts with cloth front bucket seats and a vinyl flat-bottom steering wheel. The optional Equipment Group 101A (no added cost) upgrades to heated cloth/vinyl front bucket seats, a 6-way power driver seat with power lumbar support, and dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control. The EcoBoost Premium raises the standard significantly. ActiveX synthetic leather seating is standard, along with heated and ventilated front seats, a 6-way power driver seat with memory settings, a heated leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad, customizable ambient lighting with MyColor, and a cabin particulate air filter. This is a genuinely premium interior for a sports car at this price point. The GT starts with cloth front bucket seats and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom sport steering wheel. The optional Equipment Group 301A ($2,300) adds heated cloth/vinyl front seats, ambient lighting with MyColor customizable colors, a 9-speaker stereo system with amplifier, SiriusXM with 360L and HD Radio, and dual-zone electronic automatic temperature control. The GT Premium brings ActiveX synthetic leather seating, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and ambient lighting with MyColor as standard equipment. The optional Equipment Group 401A ($2,900) adds Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ driver assistance technology, a Premier Trim with Color Accent Group featuring accent-stitched center console lid and shifter boot, leather-wrapped steering wheel with color-accented door trim, driver seat memory with 3 settings, heated mirrors with pony puddle lamps and integrated turn signals, aluminum foot pedals, and a perimeter alarm. The Dark Horse standard interior includes a leather-wrapped flat-bottom sport steering wheel with a performance suede insert, a heated steering wheel, a titanium anodized blue gear shift knob, heated cloth/vinyl front bucket seats, a 6-way power driver seat with power lumbar, a 4-way power passenger seat, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming frameless rearview mirror, premium floor liners with carpet mats, and a Dark Horse instrument panel badge with a unique chassis number. The optional Equipment Group 700A ($4,995) transforms the Dark Horse into a premium-level configuration, adding climate-controlled heated and cooled front seats, driver seat and mirror memory with 3 settings, approach detection with welcome/farewell exterior lighting, aluminum foot pedals, a universal garage door opener, a security package, and adaptive cruise control with stop and go, lane centering assist, intelligent speed assist, and predictive speed assist. For buyers who want track-specific seating, the optional RECARO Leather-trimmed Sport Seats ($1,995) are available on both the Dark Horse and GT Premium, replacing standard front seats with race-ready buckets featuring leather-trimmed surfaces with micro-suede inserts and aggressive side bolstering. Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance the 2026 Ford Mustang Experience Every 2026 Mustang trim comes standard with a 12.4-inch LCD digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch capacitive touchscreen running SYNC 4. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across all trims, eliminating the cable clutter that plagues older vehicles. Intelligent Access with push-button start is standard, and Track Apps — Ford's performance telemetry software — ships on every trim, giving buyers access to a G-force meter, acceleration timer, and lap timer without any additional cost. The EcoBoost base configuration includes a 6-speaker audio system, while the Equipment Group 101A option (available at no charge) upgrades to a 9-speaker stereo with SiriusXM 360L and HD Radio. The EcoBoost Premium steps up to a 9-speaker amplified system as standard, with the optional B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen ($1,160) available — a 12-speaker setup with a trunk-mounted subwoofer and Bang & Olufsen's signature acoustic tuning. The GT Premium also includes a 9-speaker system standard, with the same B&O upgrade available. The Dark Horse ships with the full B&O Sound System by Bang & Olufsen (12 speakers including a subwoofer) as standard equipment. The optional Ford Connectivity Package ($745) is available on all five trims and extends the vehicle's connected services for 7 years from the warranty start date. It includes unlimited 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot capability, connected navigation, Alexa Built-in, and audio streaming. For military families stationed at Fort Riley who rely on consistent connectivity across base and surrounding areas, this package is a practical long-term investment. The EcoBoost Premium also offers the optional Magnesium Framed Curved Glass Display ($1,000), which integrates the 12.4-inch instrument cluster and 13.2-inch center touchscreen behind a single seamless curved glass panel — a visual upgrade that makes the interior feel genuinely modern. Safety Innovations in the 2026 Ford Mustang Designed for Military Families The 2026 Mustang's safety suite is more comprehensive than many buyers expect from a performance coupe. Ford Co-Pilot360 is standard across the lineup, delivering a foundation of driver-assistance technology that includes Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, a rear view camera, rear parking sensors, and auto high-beam headlamps. The SOS Post-Crash Alert System is standard on EcoBoost, EcoBoost Premium, and GT Premium trims, automatically signaling for emergency assistance after a collision. The airbag architecture is thorough: dual-stage front airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and safety canopy side-curtain airbags are all present. LATCH child safety seat anchors are included, an important feature for military families with young children who need to install car seats in the rear seating positions. Individual Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) is standard on all trims, providing per-tire pressure readings rather than a simple warning light. For buyers who want the most advanced active safety suite, the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package adds Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Lane Centering Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist, Predictive Speed Assist, and Evasive Steering Assist. On the EcoBoost Premium, this is available as a standalone package ($1,295) or bundled within the Equipment Group 201A ($3,000). On the GT Premium, it is included in the Equipment Group 401A ($2,900). The Dark Horse includes it as part of the Equipment Group 700A ($4,995). AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control is standard on all trims, working alongside the rear-wheel-drive platform's launch control and selectable drive modes to keep spirited driving manageable in varying road conditions. The Personal Safety System, which coordinates seatbelt pretensioners, airbag deployment, and occupant sensing, is standard on the EcoBoost Premium, GT Premium, and Dark Horse. Research Ford Mustang Breaking Down the 2026 Ford Mustang Trim Pricing for Buyers Pricing across the five trims spans a wide range, reflecting the genuine performance and content differences between configurations: Feature Dark Horse EcoBoost EcoBoost Premium GT GT Premium Base MSRP $64,080 $32,995 $36,345 $46,560 $52,075 All trims share: Destination charge: $1,995 EcoBoost The EcoBoost at $32,995 is the accessible entry point — a rear-wheel-drive sports coupe with 315 hp, a 10-speed automatic, wireless smartphone integration, and Ford Co-Pilot360 safety technology. For buyers who want the Mustang experience without the V8 fuel and insurance costs, this is a genuinely compelling value. EcoBoost Premium The EcoBoost Premium at $36,345 adds ActiveX synthetic leather, heated and ventilated seats, a wireless charging pad, ambient lighting, a 9-speaker audio system, and a remote engine start system. The $3,350 step-up over the base EcoBoost buys a meaningfully more refined daily driver. GT & GT Premium The GT at $46,560 is the emotional heart of the lineup — a 6-speed manual, 480 hp V8, and enough standard performance equipment to satisfy most enthusiasts without optional packages. The available GT Performance Package ($5,660) turns it into a serious track-day tool. The GT Premium at $52,075 combines V8 power with a luxury-leaning interior: heated and cooled seats, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a 9-speaker system are all standard. The optional B&O Sound System ($1,160) and RECARO sport seats ($1,995) make it the most comfortable daily V8 experience in the lineup. Dark Horse The Dark Horse at $64,080 is a purpose-built performance machine. Its 500 hp, standard Brembo brakes, MagneRide damping, TORSEN differential, and active exhaust represent a level of factory track preparation that rivals purpose-built sports cars costing significantly more. Buyers ready to move forward can contact us for financing information through Valor Ford's online credit application before visiting the showroom. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Options for 2026 Ford Mustang Owners Ford backs the 2026 Mustang with manufacturer warranty coverage that applies to all five trims. For specific coverage terms and mileage limits, contact Valor Ford directly, as warranty details should be confirmed at the time of purchase. For active-duty military members and working professionals whose schedules do not accommodate traditional service appointments, Valor Ford offers a vehicle pickup and delivery service — a practical option when base schedules or work commitments make dropping off a car inconvenient. Routine maintenance, from oil changes to tire rotations to brake inspections, can be scheduled through Valor Ford's service department online, keeping the Mustang in peak condition between weekend drives. The optional Ford Connectivity Package ($745), available on all five trims, extends connected services for 7 years and includes over-the-air capability that helps keep the vehicle's software current. For buyers who invest in optional performance packages, keeping up with factory-recommended service intervals is particularly important for components like the MagneRide damping system, Brembo brake linings, and summer-only performance tires, all of which perform best when maintained to Ford's specifications. Schedule Ford Service Today Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Mustang's Strengths Third-party validation matters when making a significant purchase decision, and the 2026 Mustang has earned meaningful recognition from credible sources. J.D. Power awarded the Mustang the Highest Ranked Sporty Car — J.D. Power U.S. Initial Quality Study (2026), reflecting owner-reported satisfaction with the vehicle's build quality and feature execution in the first 90 days of ownership. The same organization named it the Most Appealing Sporty Car — J.D. Power U.S. APEAL Study (2026), a separate measure of how much owners enjoy their vehicles across performance, comfort, features, and design. Car and Driver placed the Mustang on its Editors' Choice: Sports Car (2026) list, one of the automotive press's most respected annual recognitions. Expert commentary reinforces these accolades. Edmunds describes the Mustang as "at once a charmer and a hammer," noting its V8 power, handling, and modern technology as a package that avoids being a one-trick performance car. MotorTrend's reviewers found the GT "shockingly poised and well balanced" when pushed through canyon roads — praise that translates directly to the rolling Flint Hills terrain near Fort Riley. Car and Driver's assessment is direct: the Mustang proves that American muscle is alive and well. Fuel Economy Fuel economy and range by trim Feature Dark Horse EcoBoost EcoBoost Premium GT GT Premium MPG 14 city / 22 hwy / 17 combined 22 city / 33 hwy / 26 combined 22 city / 33 hwy / 26 combined 15 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined 15 city / 23 hwy / 19 combined Common Questions from Buyers About the 2026 Ford Mustang Which Mustang trim gets the best fuel economy? The EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium both achieve 22 city / 33 hwy / 26 combined MPG — significantly better than the V8 trims. The GT and GT Premium return 15 city / 23 hwy / 18 combined, while the Dark Horse delivers 14 city / 22 hwy / 17 combined. Does the GT come with a manual transmission? Yes. Both the GT and GT Premium come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission with rev matching. A 10-speed SelectShift automatic is available at no additional cost through the Equipment Group 44U option. What is the difference between the GT and the Dark Horse? The GT produces 480 hp from its 5.0L V8 and starts at $46,560. The Dark Horse uses a modified version of the same engine producing 500 hp and adds standard Brembo 6-piston front brakes, a TORSEN limited-slip differential, MagneRide damping, an active valve exhaust, a strut-tower brace, and a K-brace — all as standard equipment. The Dark Horse starts at $64,080. Can I tow anything with a 2026 Mustang? The EcoBoost and EcoBoost Premium are rated for 1,000 lbs of towing. The GT is also rated for 1,000 lbs. The GT Premium and Dark Horse are not rated for towing. What safety features come standard on every trim? All five trims include Ford Co-Pilot360 with Pre-Collision Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, a rear view camera, rear parking sensors, auto high-beam headlamps, AdvanceTrac with Electronic Stability Control, and LATCH child safety seat anchors. Is the RECARO seat option available on the EcoBoost? No. The optional RECARO Leather-trimmed Sport Seats ($1,995) are available only on the Dark Horse and GT Premium trims. Why the 2026 Ford Mustang Is a Top Choice for Drivers The 2026 Mustang's staying power comes from something no competitor has been able to replicate: a coherent lineup that genuinely serves five different buyers without compromising any of them. The EcoBoost delivers sports car styling and rear-wheel-drive engagement at a price and fuel economy that makes it a practical everyday vehicle. The GT delivers the V8 manual experience that enthusiasts have sought for decades. The Dark Horse delivers factory-built track capability at a price that undercuts European alternatives by a considerable margin. Car and Driver's Editors' Choice recognition and J.D. Power's dual 2026 awards for Initial Quality and APEAL confirm that this is not merely a nostalgic purchase — it is a well-engineered, well-built vehicle that owners are genuinely satisfied with. Valor Ford is located at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441, and the team is ready to walk through every trim, every package, and every configuration option in detail. Give us (785) 238-5114 a call to check current availability or schedule a test drive. If you want to explore the current inventory before visiting, check out our complete 2026 Mustang research page to compare trims side by side and find the configuration that fits your driving life. Research Ford Mustang © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.

2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend: Complete Buyer's Guide The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend delivers genuine four-wheel-drive capability, a confident boxy stance, and a standard suite of modern technology — all starting at $31,845. This guide covers everything a serious buyer needs: powertrain specs, cargo dimensions, available packages, safety technology, pricing, and explains why this compact SUV fits the daily rhythm of military families and weekend adventurers in the Junction City area. Table of Contents Rugged Exterior Design Tailored for Plains and River Trails Power and Traction for Outdoor Adventures Family-Friendly Comfort and Space Weekends Connectivity That Keeps You Linked Wherever You Go Peace of Mind for Military Families and Daily Commutes Mid-Range Value Tailored for Working Families: 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend Pricing Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Support for Owners Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers Final Thoughts on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend's Value Why Junction City Drivers Are Choosing the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend The Flint Hills terrain surrounding Fort Riley demands more than a generic commuter crossover. Seasonal rains turn unpaved access roads into slick challenges, winter storms roll across the Kansas plains with little warning, and weekends often end at a trailhead or riverbank rather than a shopping center. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend addresses all of that with standard four-wheel drive, a purpose-built suspension, and a cabin designed for people who carry gear rather than just groceries. For military families rotating through Fort Riley, the Big Bend hits a practical sweet spot. It is compact enough to navigate Junction City streets during Riverfest weekend, capable enough for light trail duty, and efficient enough that fuel costs stay manageable on a service member's budget. Civilian employees commuting between post and town appreciate the same combination. Active-duty buyers who need a harder-working vehicle have plenty of Ford options to explore alongside the Bronco Sport. Valor Ford carries the full lineup, so shoppers comparing hauling and towing needs can read up on the 2026 F-150, the heavy-duty Super Duty F-250, or the compact-yet-capable 2026 Maverick. Families prioritizing three-row space can review the 2026 Explorer, and performance enthusiasts will want to look at the 2026 Mustang. The F-250 rounds out the heavy-duty end of the lineup for buyers with serious towing requirements. For the buyer who wants one vehicle that handles the Monday morning commute and the Saturday afternoon campsite run without compromise, the Big Bend makes a compelling case from the moment you look at the spec sheet. Rugged Exterior Design Tailored for Plains and River Trails Forbes described the Bronco Sport as "boxy in a way that feels deliberate, not retro or corny," noting that its upright stance, squared-off shoulders, and blunt nose give it a MINI-expedition vibe. That assessment holds for the Big Bend, which wears its rugged proportions naturally against the open Kansas landscape. The standard exterior begins with a Carbonized Gray grille featuring white BRONCO lettering, 17-inch Carbonized Gray-painted high-gloss aluminum wheels wrapped in 225/65R17 all-season tires, and black roof-rack side rails ready to accept crossbars. Power and heated sideview mirrors come standard, as does a body-color roof and configurable LED daytime running lamps. A manual liftgate with a flip-up rear glass panel adds real-world practicality for loading gear at the tailgate, and the hatch-integrated bottle opener is a small but characterful touch that signals this vehicle's outdoor priorities. Active grille shutters manage airflow automatically, contributing to the Big Bend's highway fuel efficiency. The Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat unit currently in stock at Valor Ford shows how well an optional premium paint elevates the Big Bend's presence. Buyers who want to personalize further can choose from Velocity Blue Metallic, Space White Metallic, Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, or the striking Orange Fury Tri-Coat — the latter two tri-coat options adding depth and richness to the finish. For a more cohesive adventure aesthetic, the optional Bronze Package swaps in 17-inch Sinister Bronze-painted aluminum wheels, bronze fender vents, an Ebony Black grille with bronze BRONCO lettering, and a Painted Shadow Black roof, all for $1,500. The Black Appearance Package at $1,600 takes a contrasting approach with 17-inch matte black-painted wheels, a Carbon Black grille with black-painted lettering, and a matte black textured hood graphic. When you're ready to keep your Big Bend looking its best, Valor Ford's genuine Ford parts department stocks OEM accessories and replacement components to maintain that factory fit and finish. Feature Big Bend Engine 1.5L Horsepower 180 hp Torque 200 lb-ft Transmission 8-speed automatic Drivetrain Four-wheel Drive Power and Traction for Outdoor Adventures A compact crossover that looks trail-ready but struggles when the pavement ends is a disappointment. The Big Bend avoids that trap through a combination of a turbocharged powertrain, a purpose-engineered suspension, and a terrain management system that goes well beyond a simple AWD toggle. The 1.5L EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine produces 180 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque, channeled through an 8-speed automatic transmission to all four wheels as standard equipment. The EcoBoost's turbocharged architecture means peak torque arrives early in the rev range, which translates to confident pull when merging onto a highway or climbing a gravel embankment. The electric power-assisted steering calibration keeps the effort light in parking lots while providing adequate feedback on winding back roads. The standard HOSS 1.0 (High-Performance Off-Road Stability Suspension) system is engineered specifically for the Bronco Sport platform, tuning the dampers and spring rates to balance on-road composure with off-road articulation. Paired with this is Ford's G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Type of Terrain) system, which offers five selectable drive modes — Normal, Eco, Sport, Slippery, and Sand — allowing the driver to optimize throttle response, transmission shift points, and traction control thresholds for the surface underfoot. The electric parking brake includes an Auto Hold function that prevents rollback on inclines, a practical feature on the rolling terrain west of Fort Riley. Towing capability of 2,200 lbs is unlocked through the optional Trailer Tow Package ($690), which adds a Class II hitch receiver, a 4-pin trailer wiring harness, trailer sway control, and a full-size spare wheel and tire. For buyers hauling a small utility trailer to a Dickinson County hunting lease or towing a personal watercraft to the Kansas River, that capacity covers the most common weekend use cases. Feature Big Bend Seating 5 Cargo 32.5 cu ft Curb weight 3,458 lbs Towing 2,200 lbs The optional Black Diamond Off-Road Package ($1,500) takes the Big Bend's capability a meaningful step further, adding 225/65R17 all-terrain tires, steel underbody protection covering the under-engine skid plate and canister shield, Black Molded-in-Color front and rear bumpers with steel plates, two front D-ring recovery hooks, a full-size spare tire, and the Class II Trailer Tow Package with trailer sway control. For buyers who regularly venture onto unpaved Flint Hills roads or rural creek crossings, this single package addresses the most common trail vulnerabilities without requiring a higher trim level. The standalone Recovery Kit ($350) adds D-ring recovery shackles, a recovery strap, gloves, and a storage bag for those who want emergency extraction gear on hand. Family-Friendly Comfort and Space Weekends Consider what a typical Saturday looks like for a Fort Riley family: soccer gear for two kids, a cooler for the riverbank, and a dog in the back. The Big Bend's about 32.5 cu ft of cargo space behind the second row handles that load without requiring a roof box, and the 5-passenger cabin keeps everyone comfortable on the drive out. The second-row seating features a 60/40 split-fold-flat configuration, so one side can fold to extend the cargo floor while the other retains a passenger seat. The rear seat center armrest adds comfort for longer drives, and the manual tilt/telescoping steering column lets the driver dial in a comfortable position. Standard cloth front bucket seats are designed to be easy to clean — a practical priority for families who spend time outdoors — and the 6-way manual driver seat adjustment covers the basics for most body types. Buyers who want more adjustment range and added comfort can add the optional Convenience Package ($1,800), which upgrades the driver seat to an 8-way power configuration with power lumbar, adds heated front seats for both driver and passenger, installs a premium-wrapped steering wheel, includes driver and front passenger seatback map pockets, and adds an adjustable liftgate flood light. The Azure Gray Tri-Coat unit in stock at Valor Ford is equipped with this package, making it a particularly well-appointed example of the Big Bend. The cargo area itself benefits from optional accessories that make weekend adventures more organized. The Cargo Management System ($195) is a five-way configurable shelf that functions as a cargo divider, a load organizer, or a fold-out picnic and work table — genuinely useful at a campsite or tailgate. Rubberized second-row seat backs ($95) protect the seatback surfaces from scuffs when gear shifts during transit. The Interior Protection Package ($395) bundles front and rear all-weather floor liners with a cargo mat for comprehensive coverage against mud, grass, and spilled drinks. The Big Bend's fuel economy of 25 city / 30 hwy / 27 combined MPG keeps operating costs in check for families running multiple errands or making the daily Fort Riley commute. Feature Big Bend MPG 25 city / 30 hwy / 27 combined Connectivity That Keeps You Linked Wherever You Go A common misconception about entry-level trims is that they compromise on technology. The 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend corrects that assumption with a standard infotainment setup that rivals vehicles priced considerably higher. At the center of the dashboard sits a 13.2-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen, Ford's latest infotainment interface, paired with an 8-inch digital instrument cluster that replaces the traditional analog gauges with a configurable digital display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility comes standard, eliminating the cable that most compact crossover owners eventually lose. There is no need to plug in — the phone connects automatically when you get in. Standard connectivity extends further with the Ford Connectivity Package, which includes a one-year unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot subscription via the vehicle's built-in modem. Amazon Alexa Built-in handles voice commands for navigation, music, and smart home control without requiring a paired phone. The audio system is a 6-speaker AM/FM stereo setup that delivers solid everyday performance. For buyers who want to extend their connected services beyond the included year, the optional Ford Connectivity Package (7-Year Option) ($745) locks in seven years of Connected Navigation, Alexa Built-in, unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot access, and streaming services from the warranty start date. That is a meaningful investment in long-term usability, particularly for military families who move frequently and rely on up-to-date navigation data in unfamiliar locations. The optional SiriusXM with 360L (3-year plan) ($300) adds three years of satellite radio with personalized 360L content for buyers who prefer curated audio on long highway stretches. Buyers who want to expand the vehicle's electrical utility can add the 400W Inverter ($175), which installs a Pro Power Onboard 400-watt outlet accessible from the cargo area — useful for charging tools, running a small device, or powering a camp light at a trailhead. The Aux Switches and Wiring option ($115) installs five overhead console auxiliary switches and a pre-run accessory wiring harness, giving accessory-minded owners a clean factory-quality foundation for light bars, compressors, or other aftermarket additions. The optional SecuriCode Keyless Entry Keypad ($195) adds a driver-side illuminated keypad that allows cabin access via a five-digit code — practical for outdoor activities where carrying a key fob is inconvenient. Peace of Mind for Military Families and Daily Commutes Safety technology on the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend is not a curated list of premium add-ons — it is a comprehensive standard suite built into the base price. The Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package covers the full spectrum of active driver assistance without requiring an upgrade. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking monitors the road ahead and can apply the brakes autonomously if the driver fails to react to an imminent collision. The system includes pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, dynamic brake support, and AEB Oncoming — addressing threats from vehicles crossing into the lane as well as those directly ahead. Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering maintains a set following distance in traffic and keeps the vehicle centered in the lane, reducing fatigue on the long, straight Kansas highway stretches between towns. The Lane-Keeping System combines lane-keeping alert, lane-keeping assist, driver alert, and road edge detection — the last of which is particularly relevant on rural two-lane roads where the shoulder drops off sharply. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and Exit Warning monitors the blind zones beside and behind the vehicle, warning of approaching vehicles when changing lanes or backing out of a parking space. Evasive Steering Assist helps the driver steer around a detected obstacle when braking alone is insufficient. Intersection Assist adds a layer of protection at cross-traffic scenarios. Post-Collision Braking applies the brakes automatically after a primary impact to reduce the severity of secondary collisions. The SOS Post-Crash Alert System and SYNC 4 911 Assist ensure that emergency services can be reached quickly after a serious incident. Structural protection includes a 7-airbag safety system, AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control), four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, and Hill Start Assist. LATCH anchors are fitted at the rear outboard positions for child seat installation. The SecuriLock Passive Anti-Theft System provides engine immobilization as a standard deterrent. Individual tire pressure monitoring tracks each tire independently, alerting the driver before a pressure drop becomes a roadside problem. Safety Feature Big Bend Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ Standard Pre-Collision Assist with AEB Standard (Pedestrian Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Dynamic Brake Support, AEB Oncoming) Adaptive Cruise Control Standard (Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, Predictive Speed Assist) Lane-Keeping System Standard (Lane-Keeping Alert, Lane-Keeping Assist, Driver Alert, Road Edge Detection) BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert Standard (Cross-Traffic Alert and Exit Warning) Evasive Steering Assist Standard Intersection Assist Standard Rear Cross-Traffic Braking Standard Post-Collision Braking Standard Rear View Camera Standard (With Backup Assist Grid Lines) Rear Parking Sensors Standard Auto High-Beam Headlamps Standard 7-Airbag System Standard AdvanceTrac with RSC Standard LATCH System Standard (Rear Outboard Positions) SOS Post-Crash Alert System Standard SYNC 4 911 Assist Standard Hill Start Assist Standard Individual TPMS Standard SecuriLock Anti-Theft Standard Four-Wheel Disc Brakes with ABS Standard Mid-Range Value Tailored for Working Families: 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend Pricing At a base MSRP of $31,845 plus a $1,995 destination charge, the Big Bend positions itself as the accessible entry point to the Bronco Sport lineup — and the value packed into that base price is considerable. Standard four-wheel drive, a 13.2-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, the full Co-Pilot360 Assist+ safety suite, and adaptive cruise control are all included before a single option is added. In a segment where rivals often charge extra for AWD or reserve advanced safety tech for higher trims, the Big Bend's standard equipment list represents genuine value. Feature Big Bend Base MSRP $31,845 Destination charge $1,995 The Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat unit currently in stock at Valor Ford (Stock #26FT103) is priced at $37,445 and includes the Azure Gray Tri-Coat paint, the 18-inch Dark Gravity Gray-painted aluminum wheel upgrade, and the Convenience Package — three of the most popular add-ons for buyers who want a more premium daily experience. That combination upgrades the driver seat to a powered 8-way configuration with lumbar, adds heated front seats, and steps up the wheel size and finish, making it a well-rounded specification for a family that commutes daily and recreates on weekends. Buyers considering the optional Bronze Package ($1,500) or Black Diamond Off-Road Package ($1,500) can evaluate those choices against their actual use patterns. The Bronze Package is the right call for buyers who prioritize visual distinction; the Black Diamond Off-Road Package delivers mechanical substance for those who genuinely take the vehicle off pavement. If you are trading in a current vehicle, Valor Ford makes it straightforward to find out what your vehicle is worth before you commit to a purchase, which can meaningfully reduce the out-of-pocket cost of stepping into a new Big Bend. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Support for Owners Owning a Ford in the Junction City area means having Valor Ford's service team nearby when scheduled maintenance comes due. Ford's standard factory warranty coverage applies to the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend, providing new-vehicle protection from the date of purchase. Contact Valor Ford directly for current warranty specifics applicable to your vehicle. For owners with demanding schedules — military personnel working irregular hours, civilian employees with limited daytime availability — Valor Ford offers a vehicle pickup and delivery service that brings your Bronco Sport in for service without requiring you to rearrange your day. When you are ready to book routine maintenance or address a specific concern, you can schedule your Ford service appointment online at any time. Keeping the Big Bend running at its best means using components engineered for the vehicle. Ford's factory-trained technicians at Valor Ford use genuine OEM parts, which maintain the tolerances and performance characteristics the vehicle was designed around. This matters particularly for components like the HOSS 1.0 suspension system and the EcoBoost engine, where aftermarket substitutes may not meet the original specifications. For owners who want to add capabilities after purchase — whether that is a roof-rail crossbar set for a bike rack, a rubberized cargo mat, or a recovery kit for trail use — Valor Ford's parts and accessories team can source and install factory-approved items that integrate cleanly with the Big Bend's existing systems. Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend Third-party recognition from credible automotive sources provides meaningful context for buyers evaluating the Bronco Sport against competitors like the Jeep Compass, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota RAV4, Mazda CX-50, and Honda CR-V. The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport earned the Editors' Choice award from Car and Driver (2026), a recognition that reflects the publication's assessment of overall value, driving character, and real-world usability. Car and Driver's reviewers have noted that the Bronco Sport boasts an attractive interior design, a plethora of popular features, and an impressive amount of space with several neat innovations — a characterization that aligns closely with what the Big Bend delivers at its price point. U.S. News and World Report named the Bronco Sport the Best Subcompact SUV for Off-Roading (2026) and the Best Subcompact SUV for Camping (2026), two recognitions directly relevant to buyers who plan to use the vehicle beyond paved roads. Edmunds has observed that the Bronco Sport feels like a Bronco in spirit but in a way that makes sense for daily life — a concise summary of what the Big Bend accomplishes as an entry-level trim. J.D. Power awarded the Bronco Sport Highest Initial Quality in the Small SUV segment (2025), signaling that build quality concerns are minimal for new owners. Frequently Asked Questions from Buyers Does the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend come with four-wheel drive as standard? Yes. The Big Bend includes standard four-wheel drive — it is not an upgrade or an option. Every Big Bend ships with the 4x4 drivetrain, the HOSS 1.0 suspension, and five G.O.A.T. terrain modes as part of the base configuration. What is the fuel economy on the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend? The Big Bend is rated at 25 MPG city, 30 MPG highway, and 27 MPG combined. For a daily Fort Riley commute or regular highway driving, that efficiency keeps fuel costs manageable compared to larger SUVs. How much can the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend tow? The maximum towing capacity is 2,200 lbs when properly equipped with the optional Trailer Tow Package, which includes a Class II hitch receiver, a 4-pin wiring harness, trailer sway control, and a full-size spare tire. Without this package, the Big Bend is not rated for trailer towing. What does the optional Black Diamond Off-Road Package add to the Big Bend? The Black Diamond Off-Road Package adds 225/65R17 all-terrain tires, 17-inch Carbonized Gray-painted aluminum wheels, steel underbody protection (under-engine skid plate and canister shield), Black Molded-in-Color front and rear bumpers with steel plates, two front D-ring recovery hooks, a full-size spare tire, and the Class II Trailer Tow Package with trailer sway control. It is the most practical way to add genuine trail hardware to the Big Bend. Is the 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend available to test drive at Valor Ford? Valor Ford currently has a 2026 Bronco Sport Big Bend in stock in Azure Gray Metallic Tri-Coat (Stock #26FT103), equipped with the Convenience Package and 18-inch Dark Gravity Gray-painted aluminum wheels. You can browse available Bronco Sport inventory at Valor Ford online, or get a head start on the purchase process by submitting a credit application online before you visit. What safety features come standard on the Big Bend? The full Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite is standard, including Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping System with Road Edge Detection, Evasive Steering Assist, Intersection Assist, Post-Collision Braking, rear parking sensors, a rear view camera with backup assist grid lines, and a 7-airbag system. Final Thoughts on the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend's Value The 2026 Ford Bronco Sport Big Bend earns its place in this market by delivering standard four-wheel drive, a comprehensive safety suite, a large touchscreen, and wireless smartphone integration at a starting price that working families and service members can realistically budget for. The available packages — particularly the Black Diamond Off-Road Package and the Convenience Package — allow buyers to tailor the vehicle precisely to their use case without paying for features they do not need. The Valor Ford team is ready to walk you through the options in person. Stop by our showroom at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, or give us (785) 238-5114 to check current availability and schedule a test drive. © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.

2026 Ford Maverick XL: The Right-Sized Truck for Kansas Life The 2026 Ford Maverick XL starts at $27,145 and delivers a hybrid powertrain rated at 38 MPG combined — making it one of the most fuel-efficient pickup trucks available today. This guide covers everything Junction City and Fort Riley area buyers need to know: powertrain specs, cabin practicality, available packages, safety technology, and how to build a Maverick XL that fits both a military family's budget and a working week on Kansas plains. Contact Us for Financing Information Why Junction City Drivers Are Choosing the 2026 Ford Maverick XL for Everyday Versatility Think about what most truck buyers in this part of Kansas actually need day to day. A vehicle that parks easily in Junction City's historic downtown. One that hauls gear to the Kansas River on a Saturday without burning through a tank of gas. Something that fits five passengers for school runs, yet still has a usable bed for hauling supplies to a weekend project. That vehicle is the 2026 Ford Maverick XL. Built on a unibody platform that borrows its driving manners from a crossover rather than a body-on-frame workhorse, the Maverick XL occupies a space no other truck quite fills. It is smaller and easier to thread through traffic than a full-size F-150 or a Super Duty F-250, yet it offers a genuine open cargo bed that a Ford Explorer simply cannot match. For buyers who want truck utility without truck-sized operating costs, the Maverick XL makes a compelling case. Military families stationed near Fort Riley represent a natural fit. Deployments and PCS moves create a constant need for practical, affordable hauling capacity. The Maverick's compact footprint means it fits in standard parking spaces and narrower base housing lots, while its hybrid efficiency keeps fuel costs manageable on a service member's budget. Independent contractors, landscapers, and small-business owners working across Geary County find the same appeal: a low entry price, low running costs, and enough bed space to carry tools and materials without renting a bigger truck. Ford's broader lineup gives buyers plenty of room to step up when needs grow. Buyers who want more off-road capability can explore the Bronco Badlands, while performance enthusiasts might look at the 2026 Mustang. But for the buyer who needs one versatile truck to handle work, family, and weekend life in Kansas, the 2026 Maverick XL is worth considering. Rugged Exterior Design Tailored for Urban and Plains Driving The 2026 Ford Maverick XL wears a clean, purposeful face. A black mesh grille with a black surround gives the front end a confident, no-nonsense stance that suits the working character of the XL trim. Molded-in-color black door handles, tailgate handles, and side mirrors keep the exterior cohesive without adding chrome accents that would look out of place on a truck built to earn its keep. Lighting is handled by LED reflector headlamps with automatic on/off control and auto LED high-beams — a genuinely useful feature when driving rural Kansas roads after dark. The headlamps activate and deactivate without driver input, reducing distraction on early morning commutes to Fort Riley. The standard 17-inch Sparkle Silver steel wheels are a practical choice for a working truck. Steel wheels resist the kind of curb and pothole damage that alloys suffer, and replacements are inexpensive if one gets bent on a gravel road or farm track in Dickinson County. The XL's exterior can be personalized through Valor Ford's parts department. The optional four-piece molded splash guards ($180) protect the lower body panels from the mud and road debris common on Kansas back roads. A clear protective paint film for the hood and front fenders ($360) is worth considering for buyers who regularly drive gravel routes — it shields the paint from stone chips without altering the truck's appearance. When you are ready to add genuine Ford accessories, our parts department can source and install the right components for your specific build. For buyers who want a color that stands out, the optional Orange Fury Metallic Tri-Coat paint ($495) is available. Otherwise, the Oxford White example currently in stock at Valor Ford gives the truck a clean, versatile look that works equally well on base housing or a job site. Feature XL Engine 2.5L Horsepower 184 hp Transmission eCVT Drivetrain Front-wheel drive Order Genuine Ford Parts Power and Efficiency for Fort Riley Commutes and Fields The number that defines the 2026 Maverick XL's powertrain story is 38 MPG combined. For a vehicle with a pickup bed, a curb weight of 3,674 lbs, and seating for five, that figure is exceptional. It means a Fort Riley soldier driving to and from the installation every day spends significantly less at the pump than a colleague in a conventional midsize truck — and that difference compounds quickly over a year of daily driving. The standard powertrain is a 2.5L hybrid I-4 engine producing 184 hp, paired with a power-split eCVT transmission driving the front wheels. A 1.1 kWh battery pack works in concert with the gasoline engine, capturing energy under braking and deploying it to assist acceleration. The result is a smooth, linear power delivery that feels natural in stop-and-go traffic and on the open highway. The rotary gear shift dial frees up center console space and gives the interior a clean, uncluttered feel. Buyers who need all-wheel drive — and Kansas winters do occasionally make that a legitimate concern — can add the optional 2.0L EcoBoost package (102A), which swaps in a turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive with a 3.63 axle ratio. This package is priced at no additional cost over the XL base price, making AWD traction genuinely accessible for buyers who want it. Standard towing capacity stands at 2,000 lbs, sufficient for a small utility trailer, a loaded cargo trailer, or a jon boat headed to the Kansas River. Buyers who regularly pull heavier loads — a larger trailer for farm equipment or a camper — should consider the optional 4K Tow Package (53Q) at $745. It upgrades capacity to 4,000 lbs and adds a Class III 2-inch receiver hitch, a trailer brake controller, a 7-pin and 4-pin wiring harness, an upgraded radiator, an upgraded cooling fan, and a conventional 17-inch spare tire. That combination gives the Maverick XL genuine working-truck towing credentials without requiring a step up to a larger, more expensive vehicle. The 13.8-gallon fuel tank pairs well with the hybrid's efficiency. At 38 MPG combined, a full tank covers over 500 miles of mixed driving — enough for a round trip from Junction City to Wichita and back with range to spare. Feature XL Seating 5 Cargo 33.3 cu ft Curb weight 3,674 lbs Towing 2,000 lbs Payload 1,500 lbs Spacious Interior Comfort Built for Military Families and Weekend Adventures Step inside the Maverick XL and the first thing that registers is how well-organized the space is for a truck at this price point. The SuperCrew body style provides four full doors and a rear seat that comfortably accommodates three adults — or two adults and a couple of child seats for the school-run crowd. A full bench folding rear seatback with a flip-up cushion unlocks a useful interior storage mode: fold the seat up and the floor beneath it reveals rear under-seat storage bins, a clever solution for stowing gear you want locked inside the cab rather than exposed in the bed. Up front, cloth bucket seats are standard. The driver's seat adjusts six ways manually; the passenger seat adjusts four ways. Neither is power-operated at this trim level, but the manual adjustments cover a wide enough range to accommodate most body types comfortably. The steering column tilts and telescopes manually, which matters more than it sounds — a properly positioned steering wheel reduces fatigue on longer drives across the Kansas plains. Climate control is handled by a manual air conditioning system with a cabin particulate filter. The particulate filter is a practical touch for buyers who spend time near dusty farm roads or construction sites. Power windows with a driver one-touch-down feature, power door locks, and remote keyless entry round out the convenience equipment. Dual front USB ports — one Type-A and one Type-C — plus front and rear 12V powerpoints keep devices charged throughout the day. The interior's real storage ace is the FLEXBED system in the cargo bed. Six tie-down hooks and pre-wired 12V bed power connections come standard, giving buyers a ready foundation to customize their hauling setup. The bed holds about 33 cu ft of cargo volume — enough for a weekend's worth of camping gear, landscaping supplies, or materials from a hardware run. Optional bed accessories from Valor Ford include a removable rubber bed mat ($140), spray-in bedliner ($525), hard drop-in plastic bedliner ($385), soft folding tonneau cover ($600), hard trifold cover ($1,260), and a hard rollup cover ($1,280). Each addresses a different balance of security, weather protection, and bed accessibility. Research Ford Maverick Tech That Simplifies Your Commute and Keeps You Connected A reasonable question to ask about any entry-level trim is whether it skimps on technology. The 2026 Maverick XL does not. It ships with a 13.2-inch center touchscreen running Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system — the same display size found in vehicles costing considerably more. The large screen makes navigation inputs, audio controls, and vehicle settings genuinely easy to operate without squinting or hunting through menus while driving. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, which means a driver can connect their phone without hunting for a cable every time they get in the truck. For military families who rotate devices frequently or share a vehicle between partners, the wireless connection eliminates one more daily friction point. A 6-speaker AM/FM audio system with SiriusXM 360L capability handles audio duties, and an 8-inch digital instrument cluster keeps key driving data clearly in the driver's sightline. Connectivity is built around FordPass Connect 5G, which enables a Wi-Fi hotspot capability in the vehicle. A one-year subscription to Ford's Connectivity Package is included with the purchase. Buyers who want to extend that coverage can add the optional Connectivity Package (7 year) at $745, which extends the 5G Wi-Fi hotspot to up to 10 devices, along with audio and video streaming features and voice assistant integration, for seven years from the warranty start date. For families with multiple devices — phones, tablets, laptops — that extended coverage pays for itself quickly compared to individual data plan upgrades. Buyers who want satellite radio can add a three-year SiriusXM with 360L subscription ($300), while the optional SecuriCode keyless-entry keypad ($230) — a dealer-installed pillar-mounted keypad — lets drivers unlock the doors with a personal code, useful when hands are full carrying groceries or gear. Feature XL MPG 42 city / 35 hwy / 38 combined Battery (kWh) 1.1 Safety Features Designed to Protect You and Your Family The 2026 Maverick XL carries a meaningful set of active safety systems as standard equipment, not as optional add-ons. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) monitors the road ahead and can apply the brakes autonomously if a collision is detected and the driver has not reacted in time. Pedestrian detection is included, which matters in environments where children and foot traffic are present around base housing or school zones. The standard Lane-Keeping System bundles lane-keeping assist, lane-keeping alert, and driver alert into a single suite. Lane-keeping assist applies gentle steering corrections when the truck begins to drift from its lane without a turn signal active; driver alert monitors driving patterns for signs of fatigue and prompts the driver to take a break when needed. Intersection Assist watches for oncoming vehicles when the driver is turning, adding a second layer of collision awareness at busy intersections. Post-Collision Braking applies the brakes automatically after an initial impact to reduce the severity of secondary collisions. Structural protection includes a 7-airbag safety canopy system, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), and AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control — the latter monitors vehicle dynamics and intervenes when the system detects a potential rollover condition. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and SOS Post-Crash Alert System round out the standard safety package. The rear view camera is standard, giving a clear view of what is behind the truck when reversing. Buyers who want expanded awareness can add the optional Ford Co-Pilot360 1.0 package at $795. This suite adds BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert and trailer coverage, rear cross-traffic braking, rear parking sensors, exit warning, road edge detection, and power glass manual-folding mirrors. For families frequently parking in busy lots or towing a trailer, the blind-spot and cross-traffic systems are a worthwhile upgrade. Affordable Toughness: 2026 Ford Maverick XL Pricing Breakdown for Kansas Buyers At a base MSRP of $27,145 plus a destination charge of $1,695, the 2026 Ford Maverick XL enters the market as one of the most accessible new trucks available today. For working-class families and military households managing tight budgets, that starting figure opens the door to a genuinely capable, hybrid-powered pickup without requiring a significant financial stretch. The XL's value proposition strengthens further when you account for fuel savings. At 42 MPG city, the Maverick XL's hybrid powertrain significantly reduces daily operating costs compared to conventional gasoline trucks. Over 15,000 miles of annual driving, the fuel savings relative to a truck averaging 20 MPG city can amount to hundreds of dollars per year — a meaningful figure for a household on a service member's income. The vehicle currently in stock at Valor Ford — Stock #26FT101, VIN 3FTTW8B38TRA85742 — is priced at $32,475 and comes equipped with the AWD package, a conventional spare tire, a 2K trailer hitch receiver with 4-pin connector, and the Oxford White exterior with a Navy Pier Black/Slate interior. It has 10 miles on the odometer and is ready for immediate delivery. Buyers who want to explore other body styles or capability levels can browse our current used-vehicle inventory for additional options, or explore the Bronco Badlands inventory if off-road capability is the priority. When you are ready to move forward on a Maverick XL, getting prequalified online takes just a few minutes and helps clarify your budget before you arrive at the dealership. Feature XL Base MSRP $27,145 Destination charge $1,695 Get Pre-Approved for Financing Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Support for Long-Term Ownership Owning a new Ford comes with manufacturer warranty coverage that provides a meaningful safety net, particularly for military families who move frequently and may not always be near the same dealership. Ford's warranty structure is backed by an extensive authorized service network, meaning coverage travels with the vehicle regardless of where the owner is stationed. For buyers who want added peace of mind on the road, Valor Ford offers a dealer-installed roadside assistance kit ($80) that includes booster cables, an LED flashlight, a rain poncho, a survival blanket, first aid materials, and a compact carrying case. A commercial-grade version ($240) adds a reflective safety vest, a thermal survival blanket, a hazard reflective triangle, and a more comprehensive first aid supply set. The optional GB40 Jump Start Kit ($190) — a NOCO Genius Boost Plus GB40 lithium jump starter with heavy-duty battery clamps, USB charging cables, and a protective carry case — is a practical addition for anyone who regularly works or recreates in areas where help may be slow to arrive. Valor Ford's service team is equipped to handle routine maintenance, warranty work, and accessory installations. You can schedule your Ford service appointment online, or if your schedule does not allow time to bring the vehicle in, take advantage of our convenient vehicle pickup and delivery service — we come to you, handle the service, and return the truck when it is done. Schedule Ford Service Today Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Maverick XL's Strengths The 2026 Ford Maverick earned the MotorTrend Truck of the Year — MotorTrend (2026) and the North American Truck of the Year — North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year (2026), two of the most competitive recognitions in the automotive industry. It also earned the Edmunds Top Rated Truck — Edmunds (2026) and a spot on Car and Driver's 10Best Trucks and SUVs — Car and Driver (2026). Additionally, Kelley Blue Book named it the Best Buy Award winner in the Compact Truck category — Kelley Blue Book (2026). 🏆 MotorTrend Truck of the Year (2026) 🏆 NACTOY North American Truck of the Year (2026) 🏆 Edmunds Top Rated Truck (2026) 🏆 Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Compact Truck (2026) The expert commentary behind these awards is consistent. MotorTrend described the Maverick as fun and playful while praising its real-truck capability. Edmunds noted that the Maverick delivers as much truck as most people will ever need, crediting its efficient hybrid engine, functional bed, and competitive price. Car and Driver recognized that the Maverick proves value and driving engagement are not mutually exclusive. These are not participation awards — they reflect a consensus among the industry's most respected evaluators that the Maverick XL delivers genuine, measurable value. Frequently Asked Questions from Local Buyers What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Maverick XL? The standard XL is rated to tow 2,000 lbs. Adding the optional 4K Tow Package (53Q, $745) upgrades that rating to 4,000 lbs and includes a Class III 2-inch receiver hitch, trailer brake controller, 7-pin and 4-pin wiring harness, upgraded radiator, upgraded cooling fan, and a conventional 17-inch spare tire. What MPG does the 2026 Maverick XL get? The hybrid-powered XL is rated at 42 MPG city, 35 MPG highway, and 38 MPG combined. The 1.1 kWh battery pack works with the 2.5L hybrid I-4 engine to maximize efficiency, particularly in stop-and-go driving conditions. Can I get all-wheel drive on the Maverick XL? Yes. The optional package 102A swaps the standard front-wheel-drive hybrid system for a 2.0L EcoBoost turbocharged engine, an 8-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive with a 3.63 axle ratio. This package is available at no additional cost over the base XL price. How much cargo space does the Maverick XL have? The Maverick XL's bed holds about 33 cu ft of cargo and comes standard with six tie-down hooks and pre-wired 12V bed power connections. The FLEXBED system supports a wide range of optional accessories including tonneau covers, bed extenders, bedliners, and tie-down locking rails. Does the Maverick XL come with safety features like blind-spot monitoring? Blind-spot monitoring is not standard on the XL but is available through the optional Ford Co-Pilot360 1.0 package at $795. Standard safety equipment includes Pre-Collision Assist with AEB, Lane-Keeping System, Intersection Assist, Post-Collision Braking, rear view camera, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, 4-wheel ABS, and a 7-airbag safety canopy system. What is the payload capacity of the 2026 Maverick XL? The XL is rated for a 1,500 lbs payload, with a curb weight of 3,674 lbs. That payload rating comfortably handles most residential and small-business hauling tasks, from landscaping materials to construction supplies. Final Thoughts: The 2026 Ford Maverick XL's Value Proposition for Kansas Lifestyles The 2026 Ford Maverick XL solves a problem that a surprising number of Kansas buyers face: needing a truck's capability without committing to a truck's size, fuel cost, or price tag. At $27,145 to start, with a hybrid powertrain rated at 38 MPG combined, a five-passenger cabin, about 33 cu ft cargo bed, and a comprehensive set of standard safety technology, the XL delivers a package that is genuinely difficult to argue against for daily commuters, military families, and working households who need one vehicle to handle everything. The extensive list of available packages — from the 4K Tow Package to Ford Co-Pilot360 to the 7-year Connectivity Package — means buyers can build the Maverick XL to match their specific needs rather than paying for a higher trim loaded with features they will never use. That flexibility is part of what makes the XL so practical. Valor Ford has a 2026 Maverick XL in stock right now at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd. Stop by our showroom on Goldenbelt Blvd, give our team (785) 238-5114, or start the process online by taking a moment to get an estimate on your current vehicle's trade-in value. The team at Valor Ford is ready to put you in the right truck for your life in Kansas. Trade In Evaluation Get Pre-Approved for Financing © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.

2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX: Full Review The 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX is where ranch-bred luxury meets full-size family utility — a purpose-built SUV that carries seven passengers, hauls up to 9,000 lbs, and wraps it all in Premium Del Rio Leather with Sinister Bronze accents. This guide covers every spec, standard package, optional add-on, and real-world ownership consideration to help Junction City and Fort Riley families decide if this is the right vehicle for their lives. Table of Contents Bold Exterior Styling Tailored for Plains and Terrain Power and Performance: Towing and Engine Specs Adventures Spacious Interior Comfort Designed for Military Families and Rural Lifestyles Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance Everyday Life Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems Built for Active Community Comprehensive Pricing Breakdown of the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX Trims Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Expedition Max's Strengths Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for Long-Term Ownership Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX Why Junction City Families Are Choosing the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX Military families stationed near Fort Riley face a specific challenge: they need one vehicle that handles school runs on Tuesday, a camping trip to the Flint Hills on Friday, and towing a boat to the Kansas River on Saturday. The 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX is purpose-built for exactly that kind of life. Its extended-wheelbase body delivers a genuine cargo advantage over standard-length full-size SUVs, while the King Ranch's western-luxury trim level adds the kind of interior refinement that makes a two-hour highway stretch feel effortless rather than exhausting. Fuel economy is a practical consideration for anyone commuting between base housing and Junction City daily. The King Ranch MAX returns fuel economy figures that reflect the reality of moving a 5,794-lb SUV: Feature King Ranch MAX MPG 15 city / 22 hwy / 18 combined At 18 combined MPG, the Expedition Max holds its own for a vehicle in this class and weight category. Highway driving — which dominates most Kansas commutes across the flat plains — pushes efficiency toward that 22 mpg figure, making longer runs to Dickinson County or weekend trips through the Flint Hills more economical than the city number alone suggests. For families who are also evaluating other Ford vehicles for different household needs, Valor Ford carries the full lineup. If a second vehicle is on the table, our team can walk you through the 2026 F-150 research page, the F-250 heavy-duty overview, or even the compact Maverick for a more fuel-efficient daily driver. Households wanting a three-row crossover at a lower price point can explore the 2026 Explorer, and performance enthusiasts in the family can check out the 2026 Mustang. The Expedition Max King Ranch MAX, though, sits at the top of the utility hierarchy — the vehicle you choose when compromise is not an option. Bold Exterior Styling Tailored for Plains and Terrain The King Ranch MAX's exterior identity starts at the grille. Sinister Bronze-painted bars and signature lighting give the front fascia a warm, distinctly western character that separates it immediately from the chrome-heavy aesthetics of competing full-size SUVs. That bronze theme carries through to the 22" x 9.0" Sinister Bronze Diamond Cut Machined Face Aluminum wheels wrapped in P275/50R22 all-season tires — a combination that looks purposeful on the flat Kansas plains and fills the wheel wells with authority on gently rolling Flint Hills terrain. Satin Chrome "EXPEDITION" lettering on the hood and King Ranch badging announce the trim level without shouting. Polished Stainless Steel beltline moldings run the length of the extended-wheelbase body, and chrome roof rails with black end caps complete the exterior trim story. The 360-Degree Zone Lighting with Illuminated Rear Spoiler adds functional illumination for loading gear in the dark after a late return from a community event or a long day on the water. Black Onyx Painted Power-Deployable Running Boards extend automatically when a door opens, a practical feature for families with young children or for loading gear into a vehicle that sits at a commanding height. An Active Air Dam at the front manages aerodynamic efficiency at highway speeds. For buyers who want a two-tone look, the optional Black Painted Roof (code 90A) adds a gloss black finish to the roofline — a sharp contrast against lighter body colors like the Star White Metallic Tri-Coat currently in stock at Valor Ford. The physical dimensions of this SUV reflect its extended-wheelbase mission. The capacity numbers tell the story clearly: Feature King Ranch MAX Seating 7 Cargo 37.4 cu ft Curb weight 5,794 lbs Towing 9,000 lbs Payload 1,956 lbs With about 37 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row and a payload rating of 1,956 lbs, the Max body style delivers on its core promise. Buyers who are also considering a rugged off-road SUV at a different price point can browse Valor Ford's Bronco Badlands inventory for a trail-focused alternative. Power and Performance: Towing and Engine Specs Adventures A 9,000-lb towing rating is only meaningful if the powertrain behind it is genuinely capable — and the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 under the King Ranch MAX's hood delivers. Twin-turbocharged and direct-injected, this engine produces 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, numbers that put it in serious company among full-size SUVs. That torque figure is particularly relevant for towing: pulling a loaded horse trailer out of a Dickinson County property or launching a boat at a Kansas River ramp requires low-end grunt, and 480 lb-ft provides it in abundance. Feature King Ranch MAX Engine 3.5L Horsepower 400 hp Torque 480 lb-ft Transmission 10-speed automatic Drivetrain Four-wheel Drive The 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission manages gear selection with a wide ratio spread that keeps the engine in its power band whether cruising at 75 mph on the highway or climbing a gravel county road. The Intelligent 4WD System with Terrain Management System and two-speed automatic transfer case gives drivers the ability to select terrain modes suited to conditions — from dry pavement to loose gravel to light trail surfaces. The 3.73 rear axle ratio (non-limited-slip), part of the standard Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, is specifically calibrated for towing duty rather than maximum fuel economy, a deliberate engineering choice that prioritizes pulling confidence. The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package — included at no additional cost on the King Ranch MAX — also brings an upgraded 26mm engine radiator to manage heat during sustained towing, an integrated trailer brake controller, a Class IV trailer hitch receiver, and both 4-pin and 7-pin trailer connectors. Trailer sway control monitors trailer behavior and applies selective braking to keep the combination stable. The two-speed transfer case includes neutral towing capability for situations where the vehicle needs to be towed itself. Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) suspension reads road conditions in real time and adjusts damper firmness accordingly, delivering a composed, planted ride whether the vehicle is loaded with seven passengers and gear or running empty. For owners who need genuine Ford OEM replacement components down the road, Valor Ford's team can help you source genuine Ford parts directly. Spacious Interior Comfort Designed for Military Families and Rural Lifestyles Three rows of Del Rio leather seating across all seven positions is the King Ranch MAX's defining interior statement. The front captain's chairs are both heated and ventilated — a combination that matters equally in a Kansas January and a Kansas August. The Del Rio Leather-wrapped heated steering wheel with Norias solid stitching carries the western theme through to the driver's hands, while door trim panels feature Ebony Del Rio Leather inserts paired with Mesa Antique Leather armrests throughout the cabin. The second row deserves particular attention for families with children. Power-folding heated captain's chairs with perforated leather inserts include a tip-and-slide function that creates a clear walking path to the third row without requiring passengers to fully exit the vehicle. This matters practically when loading kids at a school pickup line or helping elderly family members into the rear seats. The second-row 40/20/40 bench seat option is not available on the King Ranch trim — the captain's chair configuration is the only choice here, which actually benefits passenger comfort at the cost of an eighth seating position. The third row uses a flexible 40/20/40 PowerFold seat with power recline and remote power-folding head restraints. This means third-row passengers get genuine recline capability rather than the upright, tolerate-it posture that plagues competitors' rearmost seats. Edmunds noted in their Expedition evaluation that the cabin is quieter than expected from a truck-based SUV, and that leather upholstery felt genuinely premium — an assessment that aligns with what the King Ranch's Del Rio leather specification delivers. The Flex Powered Console and Digital Device Holder in the center console provides a configurable storage solution, and floor mats with the King Ranch logo cover the front and second rows. Brushed aluminum front door scuff plates carry the King Ranch badge, reinforcing the trim's identity from the moment a door opens. With about 37 cu ft of cargo space behind the third row, there is room for a full weekend's worth of luggage, sports equipment, or festival supplies without asking anyone to give up their seat. Infotainment and Connectivity Features That Enhance Everyday Life Consider what the instrument panel looks like on the King Ranch MAX: a 24" panoramic instrument panel display spans the width of the dashboard, integrating a 12.4" digital LCD gauge cluster on the driver's side with a 13.2" center touchscreen on the passenger side. This is the Ford Digital Experience, and it represents a genuine generational leap in how information is presented in a full-size SUV. Kelley Blue Book specifically called out the massive panoramic digital dashboard as one of the Expedition's most impressive features. Audio is handled by the B&O Unleashed Sound System by Bang & Olufsen with 22 speakers and Beosonic customizable sound experience. Beosonic allows occupants to adjust the sound profile using an intuitive visual interface rather than traditional equalizer sliders — a refinement that makes a real difference on long highway stretches when the system is filling a large cabin. HD Radio is included as a standard feature. Connectivity runs through FordPass Connect with a 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, keeping multiple devices online simultaneously — useful for military families managing communications across multiple schedules. Smart-charging multimedia USB ports serve the front row, with multimedia USB ports also present at the second row, third row, and cargo area. A wireless charging pad handles front-row device charging without cables. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving comes standard with a 1-year + 90-day subscription plan, enabling true hands-free operation on over 130,000 miles of mapped North American highways. The system includes hands-free lane change assist and in-lane repositioning. For buyers who want to lock in extended coverage without ongoing subscription decisions, The optional BlueCruise Equipped One-Time Purchase (code 55C) extends service to 7 years from the warranty start date. The optional Ford Connectivity Package (code 65B) upgrades the standard connected services trial to a 7-year one-time purchase, covering 5G connectivity for the Ford Digital Experience, unlimited Wi-Fi hotspot access, audio and video streaming including YouTube and Alexa, productivity tools such as video conferencing and a web browser, and voice assistant with navigation data. The optional Rear Seat Entertainment system (code 18E) adds dual rear screens with 60W USB ports built into each screen and wireless headphone compatibility — a practical addition for families with younger children on road trips. Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Systems Built for Active Community The King Ranch MAX arrives with Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0 as a standard suite — not a package to negotiate for. This comprehensive collection of active safety systems addresses the full range of daily driving scenarios that Junction City and Fort Riley families encounter, from busy school zone pickups to open highway cruising to backing into tight spots at community events. Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) monitors the road ahead and can apply the brakes autonomously if a collision threat is detected and the driver does not respond in time. Intersection Assist extends this capability to cross-traffic scenarios, identifying vehicles approaching from the sides when the Expedition Max is turning at an intersection. These two systems working together address the most statistically common collision types in suburban and small-city driving environments. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Trailer Tow Coverage is a particularly relevant feature for a vehicle rated to tow 9,000 lbs. Standard blind-spot monitoring systems lose effectiveness when a trailer extends behind the vehicle; the trailer tow coverage version accounts for the trailer's footprint in its detection zone. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, Reverse Brake Assist, and Front and Rear Parking Sensors round out the low-speed maneuvering assistance. The Lane-Keeping System with Lane-Keeping Assist and Lane Departure Warning, combined with Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, creates a cohesive highway driving assistance framework that reduces fatigue on long Kansas highway runs. The 360-Degree Camera System with aerial view provides a bird's-eye perspective for tight parking situations. Structural protection includes Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags covering all three rows, dual-stage front airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags. Electronic Stability Control with Roll Stability Control monitors vehicle dynamics and can intervene to prevent rollovers — a meaningful feature in a tall, heavy SUV. The SOS Post-Crash Alert System activates automatically following a collision. The Driver Monitoring-Alert System watches for signs of driver drowsiness or inattention and issues alerts before the situation becomes dangerous. The Ford Security Package provides vehicle security and recovery services with a one-year plan included. Comprehensive Pricing Breakdown of the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX Trims The 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX carries a base MSRP of $87,360 before destination. Add the $2,795 destination charge and the as-delivered starting point is $90,155 — before any optional equipment. Feature King Ranch MAX Base MSRP $87,360 Destination charge $2,795 That base price includes a substantial amount of content that would be optional on competing vehicles. The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, the Driver's Package (22" wheels, 22-speaker B&O audio, power running boards), Ford Co-Pilot360 Active 2.0, and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving are all folded into the standard Equipment Group 400A at no additional charge. The King Ranch MAX currently in stock at Valor Ford (Stock #26FT98, VIN 1FMJK1P88TEA51071) is listed at MSRP of $91,895, finished in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat with Mesa Del Rio Leather interior and the Ford Connectivity Package one-time 7-year purchase included. For buyers who want to personalize further, The meaningful optional additions include the Black Painted Roof ($7,550) for a two-tone exterior statement, the Rear Seat Entertainment system ($1,995) for family road trips, the BlueCruise One-Time Purchase ($2,000) for long-term hands-free driving coverage, the Ford Connectivity Package ($745) for 7-year connected services, the Off-Road Underbody Shield ($625) for added protection on rougher terrain, and the Console Vault in-vehicle safe ($360) for secure storage. An Engine Block Heater ($190) is a practical addition given Kansas winters. Buyers cross-shopping the King Ranch MAX against the Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, Jeep Wagoneer L, or Lincoln Navigator L will find that the Expedition Max's standard content level competes favorably when the full equipment picture is considered rather than base price alone. Getting pre-approved for financing before visiting the showroom streamlines the purchase process considerably. Awards and Expert Recognition Highlighting the 2026 Ford Expedition Max's Strengths Third-party recognition for the 2026 Expedition is specific and earned rather than honorary. The Ford Expedition received the Best Buy Award: Full-Size SUV from Kelley Blue Book for 2026, and the Best Large SUV for the Money designation from U.S. News & World Report for 2026. Consumer Guide Automotive also named it a Best Buy: Full-Size SUV for 2026. Three separate organizations reaching the same conclusion in the same model year is a meaningful signal for buyers doing their research. Car and Driver summarized the Expedition's appeal plainly, noting that it checks all the full-size SUV boxes with ample space, performance, and pulling power. The Knocking Rod's review of the King Ranch variant specifically highlighted the soft, cushioned highway character and the commanding road presence that sets it apart from competitors. Kelley Blue Book's editorial team called out the split liftgate versatility and the panoramic digital dashboard as standout features that deliver a genuinely premium experience. MotorTrend noted that the Expedition continues to set a high benchmark for full-size utility vehicles, merging traditional big-SUV fundamentals with contemporary design and technology. At the broader brand level, Ford also earned the Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Award for Full-Size SUV (Ford Expedition) for 2026, reinforcing the model's standing in its segment. Buyers can also explore the used vehicle inventory at Valor Ford for pre-owned Expedition options. Warranty, Maintenance, and Service Insights for Long-Term Ownership Owning a vehicle as capable and feature-rich as the King Ranch MAX is most rewarding when service is straightforward. Valor Ford's service team at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd is equipped to handle the full scope of Expedition maintenance and repair, from routine oil changes to EcoBoost-specific service intervals. For owners whose schedules make it difficult to bring the vehicle in during business hours, Valor Ford offers a vehicle pickup and delivery service that collects your Expedition, completes the service work, and returns it — a practical option for active-duty personnel or busy parents who cannot easily carve time out of a duty day. For routine scheduling, the team can be reached directly through the Ford service appointment page. Ford's standard warranty coverage applies to the 2026 Expedition Max King Ranch MAX; contact Valor Ford directly for specific coverage details, as warranty terms can vary and are best confirmed at the point of purchase. The Ford Security Package included with the vehicle provides one year of vehicle security and recovery services. The standard BlueCruise subscription runs for 1 year plus 90 days, after which owners can renew or, if they selected the optional one-time purchase at the time of order, continue service for the full 7-year term without further subscription decisions. For owners who need to source replacement components between service visits, Valor Ford's parts department can help you find genuine Ford OEM parts to maintain the vehicle's performance and warranty integrity. Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX What is the towing capacity of the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX? The King Ranch MAX is rated to tow 9,000 lbs when properly equipped. This rating is enabled by the standard Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, which includes a Class IV hitch receiver, integrated trailer brake controller, trailer sway control, and a 3.73 rear axle ratio. That capacity covers most family boats, horse trailers, and travel campers commonly used in the Junction City and Fort Riley area. How many passengers does the King Ranch MAX seat? The King Ranch MAX seats 7 passengers across three rows. The second row is configured as power-folding captain's chairs with a tip-and-slide function for third-row access; the bench seat option is not available on this trim. The third row features a 40/20/40 PowerFold seat with power recline. What cargo space is available behind the third row? Behind the third row, the King Ranch MAX provides about 37 cu ft of cargo space. The extended-wheelbase Max body is specifically designed to maximize this figure compared to the standard-length Expedition, making it the preferred choice for families who regularly travel with all seats occupied and still need meaningful storage. Does the King Ranch MAX come with BlueCruise hands-free driving? Yes. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is standard on the King Ranch MAX with a 1-year + 90-day subscription plan included. The system enables hands-free operation on over 130,000 miles of mapped North American highways, with hands-free lane change assist and in-lane repositioning. Buyers who want extended coverage can add the BlueCruise One-Time Purchase option (code 55C) for $2,000, which covers 7 years from the warranty start date. What optional packages are available for the King Ranch MAX? The most meaningful optional additions include the Black Painted Roof ($7,550), Rear Seat Entertainment with dual screens ($1,995), BlueCruise One-Time Purchase ($2,000), Ford Connectivity Package for 7-year connected services ($745), Off-Road Underbody Shield with steel skid plates ($625), Console Vault in-vehicle safe ($360), and Engine Block Heater ($190). The second-row bench seat is not available on this trim. Where can I see the 2026 Ford Expedition Max King Ranch MAX in person? Valor Ford has a 2026 Expedition Max King Ranch MAX in stock (Stock #26FT98) in Star White Metallic Tri-Coat with Mesa Del Rio Leather interior. Visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441, or give our team (785) 238-5114 to check availability and schedule a test drive. You can also get an estimate on your current vehicle's trade-in value before you arrive to streamline the purchase conversation. © 2026 Valor Ford. All rights reserved.

2026 Ford BRONCO SPORT Recall: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT Attention all owners of the adventurous 2026 Ford Bronco Sport in Junction City, Kansas, and the surrounding Geary County area. A critical safety recall has been issued regarding the front lower control arm ball joint assembly. This component is essential for maintaining precise steering, vehicle stability, and structural integrity under all driving conditions. At Valor Ford, we believe in prioritizing your safety above all else. This detailed guide is designed to provide you with comprehensive, transparent, and actionable information about this recall, how it impacts your daily drive, and how our certified service department will resolve the issue for you completely free of charge. Our dealership has served the local community for years, providing trusted service, transparent advice, and dependable vehicles. We understand that hearing about a manufacturer safety recall on your vehicle can bring up immediate questions and concerns. Is it safe to drive? How long will the repair take? How do I get a replacement part? We are here to address every single concern. If you suspect your vehicle is involved, we encourage you to promptly Call us at (785) 238-5114 or use our convenient digital scheduling system to book your priority service appointment as soon as possible. Schedule Your Free Recall Service Now What is the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport lower ball joint recall? To understand this recall, we have to look beneath the rugged exterior of your 2026 Bronco Sport. The front lower control arm is a key structural member of your independent front suspension system. It connects the wheel hub and steering knuckle to the vehicle's frame. At the outer end of this control arm sits the lower ball joint—a highly engineered spherical bearing that allows the front wheels to steer left and right while simultaneously pivotally moving up and down to absorb bumps, dips, and off-road obstacles. The specific issue outlined in the NHTSA safety recall involves a manufacturing defect within the lower ball joint assembly itself. In affected 2026 Bronco Sport models, the ball joint housing or internal retaining rings may not meet Ford's rigorous structural specifications. Under high-load situations—such as hard braking, sudden steering maneuvers, or traversing rough Kansas dirt roads—the ball joint can experience excessive wear, mechanical deformation, or in extreme cases, complete separation from the front lower control arm. If a front lower ball joint separates while the vehicle is in motion, the affected front wheel can pivot outward unpredictably. This sudden physical detachment can lead to a severe loss of steering control, an increased risk of a collision, and extensive secondary damage to the vehicle's axle shafts, braking lines, and fender well. The recall covers specific production ranges of the 2026 Ford Bronco Sport manufactured within a designated window. Because safety is our primary objective, Ford is proactively replacing the entire affected front lower control arm assembly—including the integrated lower ball joint—on all designated vehicles. This ensures that the structural integrity of your vehicle's front suspension is fully restored to original factory standards, using updated, certified components designed to withstand the toughest driving environments. What are the warning signs of a failing front lower ball joint? While some suspension issues can develop silently, a failing or compromised lower ball joint often presents noticeable symptoms before a critical failure occurs. Drivers in Junction City and the wider Geary County area should remain highly vigilant and pay close attention to any changes in their vehicle's handling dynamics, ride comfort, or auditory profile. If you experience any of the following indicators, please bring your SUV to our certified mechanics immediately. 1. Unusual Clunking or Popping Noises One of the most common early warning signs is a metallic clunking, rattling, or popping noise coming from the front suspension. This sound is typically most pronounced when driving over speed bumps, pulling into driveways, navigating potholes, or making sharp turns at slow speeds. As the internal tolerances of the ball joint degrade, the ball stud begins to rattle inside its housing, producing a distinct physical knock. 2. Steering Wheel Vibration & Wandering A worn, loose, or damaged front lower ball joint introduces excessive play into your steering geometry. This play can manifest as a persistent vibration or shimmy felt directly through the steering wheel, particularly at highway speeds. You may also notice your Bronco Sport 'wandering' or drifting slightly to the left or right, requiring constant micro-corrections to maintain a straight path down the road. 3. Uneven or Accelerated Tire Wear When a ball joint fails to hold the wheel alignment in its precise factory position, the tire contact patch changes dynamically. This results in rapid, uneven tire wear—often referred to as 'feathering' or 'cupping.' If you notice the inner or outer edges of your front tires wearing down significantly faster than the rest of the tread, it is a clear indicator of a critical wheel alignment or suspension component issue. Will Ford pay for the ball joint repair under this safety recall? Yes, absolutely. By federal law and Ford Motor Company policy, all safety recall repairs are 100% free of charge to the vehicle owner. This complete coverage includes all necessary genuine Ford replacement parts, professional diagnostic checks, specialized shop supplies, and the labor required for our factory-certified technicians to perform the repair. You will never receive a bill or be asked to pay a deductible for safety recall work performed at Valor Ford. When you bring your 2026 Bronco Sport to our service bay, we do not just swap out the control arm. Our technicians conduct a thorough inspection of the surrounding suspension, steering, and braking components to ensure everything is structurally sound. Once the new front lower control arm and ball joint assembly are installed, we perform a professional wheel alignment. This critical step guarantees that your steering feels precise, your tires wear evenly, and your vehicle drives exactly as the engineers intended. To make sure we have your parts reserved, you can quickly Order Genuine Ford Parts or contact our service advisors directly to coordinate your appointment. Book Your Free Recall Repair How the Kansas terrain impacts your front suspension performance Living and driving in Central Kansas places unique demands on any vehicle's suspension system. Whether you are daily commuting along I-74, exploring the beautiful rolling Flint Hills, navigating the expansive agricultural landscapes of Dickinson County, or driving down the rugged gravel roads surrounding Junction City, your suspension is constantly at work. These diverse driving environments introduce substantial vibrational energy and physical impacts into your lower control arms. A compromised front lower ball joint is particularly vulnerable to the heavy road dust, loose gravel, and deep potholes common to our local geography. Over time, fine limestone dust and moisture can penetrate damaged rubber dust boots, accelerating internal wear on an already structurally vulnerable joint. When a component has a manufacturing defect, these demanding environmental factors act as catalysts, significantly increasing the probability of a mechanical failure. Does Valor Ford offer loaner vehicles while safety recall work is being performed? We know your time is highly valuable, and having your primary vehicle in the shop can disrupt your work schedule, family commitments, and daily routines. To minimize this inconvenience, Valor Ford is proud to offer alternative transportation solutions for our safety recall customers. Depending on parts availability, service scheduling, and your personal preferences, we provide several convenient options to keep you moving. For repairs that require your Bronco Sport to stay in our service bays for an extended duration, we offer a fleet of clean, modern loaner vehicles. Alternatively, our complimentary local shuttle service can drop you off at your home or workplace in Junction City and pick you back up when the service is complete. For the ultimate convenience, you can also Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service, allowing us to pick up your vehicle from your home or office, perform the recall service, and return it directly to you. If you choose to wait for your vehicle at our dealership, we invite you to enjoy our comfortable guest lounge. We offer complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen televisions, comfortable seating, and a premium coffee and beverage station so you can stay productive or relax while our factory-trained technicians complete your vehicle's safety updates. Please speak with our service coordinators when scheduling to reserve your loaner vehicle or arrange a pickup time. Arrange Pickup & Delivery Are there other historical recalls on the Ford Bronco Sport? Maintaining a complete and accurate safety history of your SUV is a vital part of responsible vehicle ownership. Over its production generations, the Ford Bronco Sport has been subject to a few other safety recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs). Being aware of these historical campaigns allows you to ensure your vehicle has had all necessary warranty updates performed, protecting its resale value and your peace of mind. Rear Brake Disc Fractures In some early production model years of the Bronco Sport, a recall was issued regarding potential microscopic cracks in the rear brake discs. Under extreme stopping forces, these cracks could expand, leading to reduced braking efficiency. Authorized dealers resolved this by inspecting the rear braking system and replacing affected brake rotors with upgraded, reinforced materials. Fuel Injector Integrity Certain models equipped with the 1.5L EcoBoost engine experienced a recall involving potential cracking of a fuel injector. A cracked injector could allow fuel or fuel vapor to accumulate near hot engine surfaces, raising safety concerns. The fix involved installing a physical fuel drain tube and updating the engine control software to detect pressure drops. Rearview Camera Software A minor digital update was issued for select model years regarding the rearview camera displaying a blank or distorted image when shifting into reverse. This was quickly resolved via a simple electronic module software update performed by dealership technicians, restoring clear rearward visibility. If you purchased your 2026 Bronco Sport used, or want to verify if any past campaigns remain open on your vehicle, our service team can run a comprehensive Oasis Report using your VIN. This report details the entire factory service, warranty, and recall history of your specific SUV. If you are ever looking to trade in or upgrade your ride, you can also complete a quick Trade In Evaluation online to see how these completed safety updates help maximize your vehicle's current market value. Comparing trims: What is the price difference between the Outer Banks and Badlands trims? When configuring a 2026 Ford Bronco Sport, buyers often find themselves choosing between two highly popular top-tier trims: the premium, street-focused Outer Banks and the rugged, off-road-optimized Badlands. While both trims share the same fundamental platform, their suspension architectures, powertrain configurations, and intended driving dynamics are notably different, which naturally reflects in their pricing and long-term durability profiles. The Outer Banks trim typically starts at a lower price point and is designed for drivers who prioritize premium interior comfort, advanced technology, and refined daily driving on paved surfaces. It features a standard independent front suspension optimized for smooth highway cruising. On the other hand, the Badlands trim commands a price premium, reflecting its heavy-duty off-road upgrades, including a more powerful 2.0L EcoBoost engine, advanced twin-clutch 4x4 system, and unique off-road-tuned suspension with larger dampers and rugged lower control arms designed to absorb severe off-road impacts. Feature / Specification Outer Banks Trim Badlands Trim Engine Option 1.5L EcoBoost I3 (Standard) 2.0L EcoBoost I4 (Standard) Suspension Setup Standard Independent Suspension Off-Road Tuned with Hydraulic Rebound Stops 4x4 System Standard 4x4 Advanced Twin-Clutch 4x4 with Rear Locker Ground Clearance 7.8 inches 8.8 inches (with optional off-road tires) Terrain Management 5 G.O.A.T. Modes 7 G.O.A.T. Modes (adds Mud/Ruts & Rock Crawl) Primary Focus Premium Comfort & Fuel Efficiency Extreme Trail Capability & Rugged Durability Regardless of which trim package you drive, both utilize precision-engineered front lower control arm and ball joint assemblies that must meet strict safety standards. If you are interested in exploring the unique handling dynamics of these different suspension systems firsthand, we invite you to Shop New Ford Bronco Inventory or visit our showroom to speak with a vehicle specialist about personalizing your driving experience. How to verify if your specific 2026 Bronco Sport is affected Not every 2026 Ford Bronco Sport produced is affected by this front lower ball joint safety recall. The campaign is limited to vehicles manufactured within a specific production window when the supplier parts in question were utilized on the assembly line. To find out if your vehicle is included, you will need to locate your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Your VIN can be found in a few convenient locations: • On the driver's side dashboard, visible from the outside looking through the lower corner of the windshield. • Printed on the safety certification label located on the driver's side door jamb or inner door pillar. • Listed on your vehicle's state registration card, insurance policy documents, or original vehicle purchase invoice. Once you have your 17-digit VIN, you can input it into the official Ford Recall Lookup Tool on our website, visit the NHTSA recall portal, or simply call our friendly service department. We will instantly verify your vehicle's status and let you know if any action is required. If you are considering purchasing a pre-owned vehicle or looking to check the credit details for a replacement vehicle, you can also Contact us for current financing options online to explore your options. Check Your Vehicle's Recall Status Schedule your certified Ford recall service in Junction City today If you have concerns, for suspension symptoms to develop before taking action. Your safety on the road is our absolute priority, and our team at Valor Ford is fully equipped, trained, and ready to resolve this safety recall for you quickly and professionally. Our factory-certified technicians have the specialized tools, alignment machinery, and genuine OEM parts needed to restore your 2026 Ford Bronco Sport's front suspension to perfect working order. We make scheduling your appointment as easy as possible. You can use our online portal to select a day and time that fits your schedule, choose our convenient pickup and delivery service, or call our service desk directly. We are proud to serve our neighbors in Junction City, Fort Riley, Manhattan, and across Central Kansas. Visit us at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441, or Get Directions to Valor Ford. Let us take care of your vehicle so you can continue exploring the open road with complete peace of mind. Schedule Your Priority Appointment

Getting Your Show Stock to the Fair: Why Towing Prep Matters in Junction City and Beyond Summer in Kansas signals a revered tradition: county fair season. From the bustling arenas of the Tri-County Fair in Herington to the highly competitive show rings at the Dickinson County Fair in Abilene, local 4-H members, FFA chapters, and multi-generational ranching families are preparing their prized livestock for exhibition. Months of early mornings, meticulous grooming, and rigorous feeding schedules culminate in these few critical days. However, before your cattle, sheep, swine, or horses can stand under the judge's watchful eye, they must endure the journey from your farm to the fairgrounds. Transporting live animals is vastly different from hauling inert construction materials or flatbed cargo; it requires specialized equipment, a deep understanding of vehicle mechanics, and an unyielding commitment to safety. At Valor Ford, located in the heart of Junction City, KS, we recognize that your truck is more than just a daily driver—it is the lifeblood of your agricultural operation. Hauling livestock down Highway 77 or along the rolling corridors of Interstate 70 demands a tow vehicle that is perfectly matched to its payload. If your truck is underprepared or incorrectly configured, you risk not only mechanical failure on the road but also the health and safety of your animal cargo. Shifting weight, summer humidity, and sudden stops create dynamic forces that will test the limits of any truck. That is why proper trailering preparation is non-negotiable. Whether you are a seasoned livestock producer hauling a heavy 24-foot gooseneck with an F-350 Super Duty, or a proud parent taking your child's first market lamb to the fair in a bumper-pull trailer behind an F-150, this guide is designed for you. We will dive deep into configuration choices, safety rules, legal requirements, and maintenance checks that guarantee a smooth arrival. If you need immediate assistance or want your rig professionally inspected before the big event, feel free to Get Directions to Valor Ford and visit our service center, or simply Call us at (785) 238-5114 to speak directly with our truck experts. At what trailer weight or size should you upgrade from an F-150 to an F-350? Understanding the limits of your tow vehicle is the foundation of safe livestock trailering. While a properly configured Ford F-150 is an incredibly capable light-duty machine, it operates in a different class than the heavy-duty F-350 Super Duty. The primary dividing line between these two platforms isn't just the raw maximum tow rating; it's a combination of payload capacity, tongue weight, trailer length, and lateral stability. Livestock trailers are notoriously heavy, often built with rugged steel or thick aluminum, and the live weight inside behaves unpredictably. When animals move, they shift the trailer's center of gravity, sending lateral and vertical forces directly to your truck's chassis. Generally, if your loaded trailer weight exceeds 8,000 to 9,000 pounds, or if the overall trailer length exceeds 20 to 22 feet, you should strongly consider stepping up to an F-350. At this threshold, tongue weight (which should represent 10% to 15% of a bumper-pull trailer's weight, or up to 25% for a gooseneck) will quickly exhaust the payload limits of a half-ton truck once you factor in passengers, feed, tack, and show gear in the truck bed. An F-350 provides the structural mass, heavy-duty braking systems, and beefier suspension components required to counteract trailer sway and maintain absolute control. Gooseneck trailers represent another major decision point. While a select few lightweight, aluminum two-horse goosenecks can theoretically be towed by a specially packaged F-150, the vast majority of gooseneck livestock trailers belong strictly in the domain of the F-350. A gooseneck places its hitch point directly over the truck's rear axle, requiring immense payload capability. If you are regularly hauling more than three head of cattle or four to five horses, the tongue weight alone will crush a half-ton's rear suspension. Upgrading to an F-350 ensures that your rear axle is engineered to bear these heavy vertical loads, keeping your front steering tires firmly planted on the pavement of Kansas highways. Spec / Capability Ford F-150 (Half-Ton) Ford F-350 (One-Ton) Max Tow Capacity Up to 13,500 lbs Up to 38,000 lbs Max Payload Up to 2,445 lbs (Heavy Duty Payload Pkg) Up to 8,000 lbs+ Hitch Styles Bumper Pull (Gooseneck highly discouraged) Bumper Pull, 5th Wheel, & Gooseneck Frame Construction High-Strength Steel (Light Duty) High-Strength Steel fully boxed (Heavy Duty) Rear Axle Options Single Rear Wheel (SRW) ONLY SRW or Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) available Which Ford F-150 configuration offers the maximum towing capacity for a livestock trailer? If your fair setup involves a light to medium bumper-pull livestock trailer—perhaps a 14-foot or 16-foot aluminum stock trailer carrying smaller animals like sheep, goats, or swine—the Ford F-150 is more than capable of handling the task. However, you cannot simply hook up to any standard F-150 and expect peak performance. To achieve the absolute maximum towing capacity of 13,500 pounds, you must select a highly specific configuration of engine, cab, bed length, and factory-installed packages. The Powertrain: 3.5L EcoBoost The undisputed king of F-150 towing is the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Delivering a stout 400 horsepower and an incredible 500 lb-ft of torque, this twin-turbocharged powerhouse provides its peak torque low in the RPM band. This is exactly where you need it when pulling a loaded trailer up a highway ramp or keeping pace on hilly country roads. While the naturally aspirated 5.0L V8 is a legendary engine with a great exhaust note, the twin-turbo EcoBoost holds the crown for maximum towing capacity and effortless low-end grunt. Cab & Bed: SuperCrew 4x4 To maximize stability and leverage, the optimal setup is the SuperCrew cab configuration with either the 5.5-foot or 6.5-foot bed, paired with a 4x4 drivetrain. The longer 157-inch wheelbase of the 6.5-foot bed version offers superior straight-line tracking and resists the 'porpoising' or bucking effect that shorter trucks can experience when pulling heavy bumper-pull trailers. The extra interior space of the SuperCrew is also perfect for securing expensive tack, show clothes, and climate-sensitive show gear. The Max Trailer Tow Package You must equip your truck with the factory Max Trailer Tow Package. This package adds crucial mechanical upgrades: an upgraded rear bumper, a class IV receiver hitch, an integrated trailer brake controller, a heavy-duty rear axle with a 3.55 electronic-locking differential, and enhanced cooling systems for both the engine and transmission. Without this package, your F-150's tow rating is significantly lower, and attempting to tow heavy loads can lead to rapid transmission overheating and premature wear on critical components. Before you hook up your trailer, make sure you know exactly what your truck can handle. If you're considering buying or ordering a light-duty powerhouse, you can Research Ford F-150 specifications, packages, and interior features online to build the ultimate family show rig. Which Ford F-350 engine and axle setup provides the highest towing capacity for livestock trailers? For serious livestock operations hauling multi-horse trailers, commercial stock trailers, or massive goosenecks loaded with market cattle, the Ford F-350 Super Duty is the undisputed gold standard. To unlock the absolute peak towing capacities of this heavy-duty workhorse—which tops out at an astronomical 38,000 pounds for gooseneck towing—you must select the correct engine, axle configuration, and gear ratio. The ultimate heavy-duty setup begins with the legendary High Output (H.O.) 6.7L Power Stroke® Turbo Diesel engine. This beast of an engine produces a class-leading 500 horsepower and an earth-shaking 1,200 lb-ft of torque. This torque is fully available at extremely low engine speeds, meaning you can pull heavy, fully loaded stock trailers up steep grades or out of muddy fairground parking lots without the engine breaking a sweat. It is paired with a heavy-duty TorqShift® 10-speed automatic transmission designed specifically to manage these immense thermal and mechanical loads. To translate that massive power to the ground and support the high pin weight of a large gooseneck trailer, you must configure the F-350 with a Dual Rear Wheel (DRW) axle setup. Known affectionately as a 'dually,' the DRW configuration adds two extra tires to the rear axle, drastically increasing lateral stability. This is crucial for livestock towing, as it eliminates the side-to-side sway caused by shifting cattle or high winds on open Kansas plains. Furthermore, selecting the 4.10 limited-slip or electronic-locking rear axle ratio optimizes the transmission's gearing for maximum pulling power, ensuring you have the ultimate mechanical advantage from a dead stop. At Valor Ford, we maintain a robust inventory of heavy-duty trucks ready to tackle the toughest agricultural demands. If you are looking to research standard three-quarter-ton options that balance daily driving with heavy pulling, we recommend you Research Ford F-250 options as well, which offer many of the same diesel powertrain advantages in a single-rear-wheel configuration. Get Pre-Approved for Your Heavy Duty Upgrade Is the 80% towing rule widely recommended by towing experts? When calculating towing capacities, many experienced towers and safety experts refer to the '80% rule.' This guideline suggests that you should never load your trailer to more than 80% of your vehicle's maximum rated towing capacity. For example, if your Ford F-150 has a maximum tow rating of 10,000 pounds, the 80% rule advises keeping your fully loaded trailer weight under 8,000 pounds. While this rule is not a legal requirement, it is highly recommended by towing professionals—especially when hauling live, shifting cargo like horses, cattle, or show stock. Why is this safety margin so critical for livestock? Unlike static loads—such as a flatbed trailer stacked with lumber or a boat securely strapped to its trailer—animals move. When a cow steps backward, a horse shifts its weight to balance around a curve, or a group of market hogs moves to one side of the trailer, they create dynamic, unpredictable forces. This shifting weight changes the tongue load on your truck hitch and can initiate dangerous trailer sway. By maintaining a 20% safety buffer under your truck's mechanical limits, you preserve the handling, steering, and braking capabilities needed to recover from sudden trailer movements or unexpected maneuvers on the highway. Additionally, the 80% rule protects your truck's mechanical longevity. Towing at the absolute limit of a vehicle's capacity generates extreme heat in the transmission, places immense strain on the engine's cooling system, and accelerates wear on brakes and suspension components. This is especially true during hot Kansas summers when ambient temperatures routinely exceed 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Operating with a comfortable safety margin guarantees that your truck will run cooler, last longer, and successfully deliver your prized livestock to the fairgrounds without mechanical incident. Do you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) to tow a livestock trailer to a Kansas county fair? Navigating the legalities of towing a livestock trailer in Kansas can often feel confusing. Many farmers and 4-H families wonder if their large dually trucks and multi-car stock trailers push them into Commercial Driver's License (CDL) territory. Under federal and Kansas state law, the general threshold that triggers a CDL requirement is a Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR)—the total weight of the truck and the trailer combined—of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the trailer's Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) is more than 10,000 pounds. If your truck and trailer combination stays below this 26,001-pound mark, a standard Class C driver's license is completely sufficient. However, what happens if your heavy-duty F-350 (which often has a GVWR of 11,500 to 14,000 pounds) is paired with a large gooseneck livestock trailer (GVWR of 14,000 pounds or more)? Mathematically, this combination can easily push your total GCWR past 26,001 pounds. Fortunately, Kansas law provides several crucial exemptions specifically tailored for the agricultural community. If you are operating as a farmer or rancher transporting your own livestock, feed, or equipment, you may qualify for the Kansas Covered Farm Vehicle (CFV) exemption. Under the CFV guidelines, a farm-registered vehicle operated by a farmer, farm employee, or family member can be driven anywhere within the state of Kansas (and within 150 air miles of the farm across state lines) without a CDL, regardless of the vehicle's weight. This exemption is designed to support the local agricultural economy and allows families to easily transport their own animals to county fairs, livestock shows, and local markets. It is important to note, however, that the vehicle must be registered as a farm vehicle and must not be used for hire or commercial transport outside of personal farm operations. For youth exhibitors in 4-H or FFA, transporting show animals is typically classified as a recreational or educational endeavor, meaning it falls outside of commercial regulations. However, if you are sponsored by a business or are hauling animals for other people for a fee, you could be deemed a commercial operator and must comply with full CDL and Department of Transportation (DOT) registration requirements. To ensure you stay fully compliant with all local laws and registration needs, we highly recommend consulting with the Kansas Highway Patrol or contacting a local licensing office before hitting the road. How often should you inspect and service your truck's trailer hitch and receiver? Your truck's trailer hitch and receiver are the single points of physical connection between your vehicle and your valuable cargo. Under the strain of livestock trailering, these mechanical connection points endure massive stress, friction, and vibration. Neglecting hitch maintenance is one of the most common causes of catastrophic trailer detachments. To guarantee safety, you must establish a rigorous inspection and service schedule. Pre-Trip Visual Check Every single time you hook up your trailer, perform a thorough visual inspection. Look closely at the hitch receiver tube on your truck for any signs of hairline cracks, rust-through, or metal fatigue. Check that the hitch pin and cotter clip are in perfect condition and securely locked in place. If you are using a bumper-pull setup, ensure the hitch ball is completely tight on the drawbar and shows no signs of pitting or excessive wear. For gooseneck setups, verify that the gooseneck ball is free of debris and that the locking mechanism operates smoothly. Monthly Maintenance On a monthly basis, or before every major long-distance trip, apply a thin layer of high-quality lithium grease to the hitch ball or gooseneck coupling mechanism. This lubrication minimizes metal-on-metal friction, preventing premature wear on both the trailer coupler and your truck's hitch. Additionally, crawl beneath the rear of your truck and check the mounting bolts that secure the receiver assembly to the vehicle's frame. Use a torque wrench to ensure these bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's exact specifications. Annual & Electrical At least once a year, conduct a deep electrical and structural service. Clean the inside of the 7-way electrical connector plug on your truck with a dedicated electrical contact cleaner, and apply dielectric grease to prevent corrosion. Inspect the heavy steel loops where your trailer's safety chains attach; these must be free of cracks or deformation. If you find any damaged hardware, you can easily Order Genuine Ford Parts through our dealership to replace worn-out components with factory-certified equipment. Navigating the Road to the Dickinson County Fair and Fort Riley Community Exhibits Towing through the scenic rolling topography of the Flint Hills region presents unique challenges that every livestock exhibitor must plan for. While Kansas is often stereotyped as flat, local drivers know that navigating the hilly corridors of Dickinson, Geary, and Riley counties requires active driving and a highly prepared vehicle. If you are hauling a loaded trailer from Junction City to the Dickinson County Fairgrounds in Abilene, you will face steady climbs and rolling descents along Interstate 70. These sustained elevation changes generate immense heat in your truck's transmission, making robust cooling systems and proper gear selection vital. To successfully manage this terrain, always ensure your truck's Tow/Haul mode is engaged. This factory Ford feature recalibrates transmission shift points, holding gears longer during climbs to prevent the transmission from constantly hunting for gears—a behavior that causes rapid thermal buildup. When descending hills, Tow/Haul mode automatically downshifts to provide engine braking, reducing the load on your brakes and preventing brake fade. Additionally, having a properly calibrated, integrated trailer brake controller ensures that your trailer slows down in perfect unison with your truck, preventing the trailer from pushing or jackknifing on slick, unpaved fairground entrances. For those heading north toward the Fort Riley community exhibits or navigating the gravel access roads of Riley County, dust, dirt, and rough surfaces are common. These conditions demand that your truck's suspension and air filtration systems are in peak health. Long gravel roads can clog engine air filters quickly, reducing fuel efficiency and pulling power. Furthermore, rough, washboard gravel roads will test your trailer's suspension and tire integrity. Driving at reduced speeds, planning routes that minimize low-maintenance roads, and ensuring your tires are properly inflated for gravel travel will protect your livestock from a stressful, bumpy ride. Before you set out on your next journey across the Flint Hills, let our certified technicians verify that your cooling systems, brakes, and transmission fluids are fully prepared for the heavy demands of the road. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today to ensure your truck receives a comprehensive pre-trip inspection, giving you complete peace of mind. Schedule Your Pre-Fair Service Appointment The Pre-Fair Towing Checklist for Kansas Livestock Exhibitors A successful trip to the county fair starts long before you pull out of your driveway. Experienced exhibitors know that a detailed pre-flight routine prevents breakdowns and protects the welfare of their animals. To help you stay organized, the truck and towing experts at Valor Ford have compiled this comprehensive, step-by-step checklist. Run through these critical inspections the day before you load your livestock to guarantee a stress-free journey. 1. Tire Pressure and Integrity (Truck & Trailer): Check the air pressure in all tires, including the spares. Under-inflated tires generate excessive heat, which is the leading cause of highway blowouts. Inspect tire sidewalls for dry rot, cracking, or embedded debris. 2. Braking Systems: Verify that your truck's brake pads and rotors are in excellent condition. Test the trailer's electronic brakes by manually sliding the override lever on your dashboard brake controller at a slow speed to ensure the trailer slows the truck down independently. 3. Electrical Connections: Connect your 7-way plug and have a helper verify that all running lights, brake lights, left and right turn signals, and hazard flashers are operating flawlessly. Clean away any corrosion on the metal pins. 4. Hitch and Coupler Security: Ensure the coupler is fully closed over the hitch ball and the locking latch is pinned shut. Cross your safety chains under the trailer tongue (forming an 'X' to catch the tongue if it detaches) and secure the breakaway switch cable to a solid point on the truck frame. 5. Fluid Levels: Check your engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant reservoir, and brake fluid. If you are driving a diesel F-350, ensure your Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) tank is fully topped off. 6. Trailer Ventilation & Bedding: Open all sliding vents and windows to guarantee maximum airflow for your animals. Lay down a thick layer of clean wood shavings or straw to absorb moisture and provide traction, preventing slips and falls during transit. 7. Emergency Kit Essentials: Pack heavy-duty roadside flares or reflective triangles, a hydraulic bottle jack capable of lifting a loaded trailer, spare tire tools, wood blocks for wheel chocks, a flash light, extra trailer fuses, and a fully stocked livestock first aid kit. Essential Towing Accessories and Upgrades for Your Ford Truck Extendable Towing Mirrors Standard side mirrors simply do not provide the wide-angle visibility required to safely tow a wide livestock trailer. Upgrading to Ford's OEM power-telescoping and power-folding trailering mirrors allows you to extend your field of view with the push of a button. These mirrors feature integrated spotter mirrors and blind-spot monitoring systems designed to detect vehicles alongside your trailer, ensuring safe highway lane changes. Smart Camera Systems Ford's 360-degree camera package is a game-changer for solo hookups and tight fairground navigation. By utilizing multiple high-definition cameras strategically placed around the truck, this system provides a birds-eye view of your surroundings. Additionally, you can install an auxiliary Ford camera on the rear of your livestock trailer, transmitting a crystal-clear live video feed directly to your central touchscreen display for effortless backing. Suspension Upgrades If your F-150 or single-rear-wheel Super Duty experiences rear-end sag when loaded, upgrading your suspension can drastically improve ride quality. Installing OEM-approved helper springs, suspension stabilizers, or rear air helper bags will level your truck, restoring steering response and headlight alignment. To browse these upgrades and customize your rig, you can Order Genuine Ford Parts directly from our online catalog. How Valor Ford Helps Junction City Farmers and Families Prep for Fair Season At Valor Ford, we are deeply embedded in the local Junction City community. We understand that county fairs represent far more than just a weekend competition; they showcase the dedication, values, and hard work of our local youth and ranching families. That is why our commitment goes beyond selling and servicing vehicles. We are proud supporters of Geary County 4-H, local FFA chapters, and the agricultural initiatives that keep our rural communities thriving. Our team of certified Ford technicians is specifically trained in the heavy-duty service and maintenance required for agricultural use, making us the premier destination for truck and trailer preparation. Our service department is equipped to handle everything from routine fluid changes and heavy-duty brake replacements to complete suspension diagnostic work and electrical harness repairs. We use specialized testing equipment to diagnose integrated trailer brake controller issues, ensuring your truck communicates seamlessly with your livestock trailer's electric brakes. We understand that your time is valuable—especially during the hectic fair prep season—which is why we offer streamlined booking options and efficient turnarounds. For families with tight schedules, we also offer our convenient pickup and delivery service. We can retrieve your truck directly from your farm or workplace, bring it to our state-of-the-art facility for service, and return it directly to you once the work is completed. To save valuable time and keep your preparation on track, you can easily Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service online. Let our professionals handle the mechanical details so you can focus on grooming, feeding, and preparing your livestock for a blue-ribbon performance. Ready to Tow? Schedule Your Pre-Fair Inspection or Upgrade Your Rig at Valor Ford Today Schedule your service before fair season. Ensure your truck is fully prepared to transport your hard work and prized livestock safely across Kansas. Whether you need a comprehensive multi-point safety inspection on your current vehicle, replacement hitch parts, or are ready to upgrade to a high-capability F-150 or F-350 dually, the dedicated team at Valor Ford is here to help. Click below to schedule your service or evaluate your current truck's trade-in value today! Schedule Pre-Fair Service Get Trade-In Evaluation Have questions about towing capacities, agricultural exemptions, or truck parts? Call us at (785) 238-5114 or Get Directions to Valor Ford to speak with our friendly team in person. We look forward to helping you make this fair season your most successful yet!

2021 Ford F-150 Recall: STEERING:RACK AND PINION — What Valor Ford Customers Need to Know As a proud owner of a 2021 Ford F-150, you know your truck is built to handle the toughest jobs across Junction City, Kansas, and the surrounding Geary County area. Whether you are hauling equipment to a job site, towing a trailer for a summer weekend getaway, or simply navigating your daily commute, you rely on your truck's steering to be precise, responsive, and completely reliable. However, Ford Motor Company has identified a critical safety issue concerning the electronic power-assist steering (EPAS) rack and pinion assembly on certain 2021 F-150 models. At Valor Ford, we want to ensure you have all the facts, understand the potential safety risks, and know exactly how to get this resolved quickly and covered at no cost under the recall. A steering recall can sound alarming, but it is important to remember that safety campaigns are designed to protect you before an issue leads to an accident. The core of this steering rack and pinion recall involves a manufacturing defect where certain internal components within the steering gear assembly may have been built out of specification. Under specific driving conditions, this can lead to an unexpected increase in steering effort or, in more severe cases, a sudden lock or restriction in the steering wheel's range of motion. Because your safety on Kansas roads is our absolute highest priority, our team of factory-trained technicians here at Valor Ford is fully prepared to inspect, diagnose, and repair affected vehicles with genuine OEM parts. For our customers in Junction City, Fort Riley, and nearby Dickinson County, addressing this recall promptly is vital for maintaining the structural and mechanical integrity of your truck. Operating a vehicle with a compromised steering gear is highly dangerous, especially at highway speeds where sudden maneuvers require absolute control. By partnering with our certified Ford service department, you can gain immediate peace of mind. We are here to walk you through every step of the recall process, from verifying your vehicle's status to completing the precision repair work in our state-of-the-art facility. Read on for a comprehensive breakdown of the recall, its technical implications, and how you can protect your investment. If you suspect your truck is affected, you do not have to wait to seek assistance. You can easily Call us at (785) 238-5114 to speak directly with our service advisors, or keep reading to find out how to locate your vehicle identification number and verify your status online. Our team is dedicated to providing transparent, friendly, and expert service to keep your F-150 running safely for years to come. Which Specific 2021 F-150 Models Are Affected by the Steering Rack Recall? Not every 2021 Ford F-150 rolling off the assembly line is included in this safety campaign. The recall is highly targeted and applies to specific production windows, particular trim levels, and select chassis configurations. Ford's engineering teams traced the issue back to a specific batch of steering gear assemblies manufactured by an external supplier during a narrow timeframe in late 2020 and throughout 2021. Because of these precise manufacturing batches, trucks built at the Dearborn Truck Plant and the Kansas City Assembly Plant within those designated production dates are the primary focus of this campaign. The mechanical issue itself stems from the internal ball nut assembly within the steering rack. During the supplier's manufacturing process, some of these assemblies received structural components that were susceptible to premature wear or micro-cracking under heavy load. Over time, these micro-cracks can expand, leading to a structural failure of the steering gear teeth or the internal ball return system. When this occurs, the driver may experience a tight spot in the steering wheel or, in the worst-case scenario, the steering mechanism could bind completely, making it impossible to steer the truck without extreme physical effort. This steering rack recall spans across multiple trim configurations, including popular variants like the work-ready XL, the versatile XLT, the luxurious Lariat, and even some high-end King Ranch or Platinum models. Additionally, both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations are represented, depending on the exact steering rack model installed during assembly. Because the steering system differs slightly based on engine selection—such as the 3.5L EcoBoost, the 5.0L V8, or the 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid—it is crucial to cross-reference your specific drivetrain with the official recall database rather than assuming your model is exempt. Because this involves a complex safety system, we strongly advise owners not to rely on guesswork. To help you identify if your vehicle is within the affected group, you can explore our comprehensive online research materials. To learn more about Ford's engineering specifications for this model year, you can Research Ford F-150 models and their technical updates directly on our website, or contact our service desk to verify your vehicle's specific build parameters. How Do I Check If My Specific F-150 VIN Is Included in This Recall? Checking whether your truck is part of this recall is a straightforward process that you can do from the comfort of your home in Junction City or Dickinson County. The single most accurate way to verify your F-150's recall status is by using its unique 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Your VIN acts like your truck's fingerprint, containing precise details about where it was built, its exact trim level, engine configuration, and manufacturing date. To find your VIN, look at the base of your driver's side windshield from the outside of the truck, or check the safety certification label located on the driver's side door B-pillar jamb. Once you have written down your 17-digit VIN, you have several reliable lookup options. You can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall portal or the official Ford Owner website and enter your VIN into their search tools. Alternatively, you can bypass the online search completely and let the certified team at Valor Ford do the heavy lifting for you. By contacting our service advisors directly, we can instantly pull up your vehicle's complete history, check for any open campaigns, and verify if the parts required for your specific steering rack replacement are currently in stock. If you discover that your 2021 F-150 has an active steering recall, do not delay. We make the booking process as smooth as possible for our local drivers. You can schedule a convenient appointment online using our dedicated portal, or coordinate with us to have your vehicle picked up and returned to your home or office. Schedule Pickup & Delivery Service What Are the Key Mechanical Specs of the 2021 Ford F-150 Steering System? The 2021 Ford F-150 features a highly advanced Electronic Power-Assist Steering (EPAS) system. Unlike older hydraulic steering pumps that continuously draw power from the engine, the EPAS system utilizes an electric motor to provide assist only when needed. This design significantly improves fuel efficiency and allows for dynamic steering tuning. Below is an overview of the technical specifications that define this sophisticated system: EPAS Technology The system features a rack-mounted electric motor that delivers variable assist based on vehicle speed. This provides lighter steering effort during low-speed parking maneuvers and a firmer, more stable feel at highway speeds across Geary County. Active Nibble Control Built-in software algorithms constantly monitor for minor vibrations or 'nibbles' caused by uneven road surfaces or tire imbalance. The steering gear automatically counters these forces to deliver a smooth, premium driving experience. Pull-Drift Compensation This advanced feature automatically detects consistent side-winds or heavily crowned roads that would normally cause a vehicle to drift. The system applies a subtle, continuous correction so the driver doesn't have to fight the steering wheel. Steering Parameter Technical Specification Driver Benefit System Type Rack-and-Pinion with Electric Power Assist (EPAS) Saves fuel by eliminating constant hydraulic drag on the engine. Turning Circle 41.2 to 47.8 feet (varies by wheelbase) Provides excellent maneuverability for a full-size light-duty truck. Steering Ratio 16.5:1 to 17.5:1 (ratio varies by trim) Ensures highly responsive and predictable handling on Kansas highways. Integration Support ADAS & Pro Trailer Backup Assist Co-Pilot360 Enables automated steering inputs for parking, towing, and lane keeping. Does the 2021 F-150 Have Lane-Keep Assist Integrated Into the Steering Rack? Yes, the 2021 Ford F-150's modern driver-assist technologies are deeply integrated with the electronic power-assist steering (EPAS) rack and pinion system. Safety features like Lane-Keep Assist, Lane-Centering, and the highly acclaimed Pro Trailer Backup Assist do not operate independently of your physical steering gear; instead, they rely on digital commands sent directly to the electric motor mounted on the steering rack. This allows the vehicle's computer to make microscopic steering adjustments on your behalf, helping you stay safely centered in your lane during long highway road trips. Because of this close relationship between software and mechanical hardware, any physical fault within the steering rack assembly can immediately disrupt your truck's advanced safety features. If the internal gear teeth or ball nut mechanism experiences binding or mechanical friction, the electronic steering motor will struggle to execute the precise commands sent by the Ford Co-Pilot360 system. This can trigger dashboard warning lights, disable driver-assist features, or even cause unexpected feedback through the steering wheel as the system attempts to overcome the physical resistance inside the gear. Ensuring your physical steering rack is in flawless condition is key to keeping these safety systems working exactly as Ford designed them. If you are experiencing warning messages on your driver display or feel the Lane-Keep Assist pulling abnormally, it could be related to this underlying mechanical steering issue. Our team can quickly diagnose both the physical components and the electronic control modules to guarantee complete system harmony. Does the Chevy Silverado Have Similar Steering Recalls to the F-150? When mechanical issues like a steering recall surface, it is natural for truck owners to wonder if these problems are unique to Ford or if they represent broader industry challenges. The reality is that steering gear campaigns are common across the light-duty truck segment. Major manufacturers, including General Motors with the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, have issued similar steering-related recalls over recent model years. This is largely because light-duty trucks carry massive loads, tow heavy trailers, and operate in challenging off-road conditions, putting immense stress on their steering components. For instance, Chevrolet has faced past recalls involving sudden losses of electric power steering assist in the Silverado, often traced back to software bugs or electrical grounding issues. By comparing these industry campaigns, we can see that steering complexity is a challenge shared by all major automakers as they transition to fully electronic, software-defined steering systems. Ford's recall of the 2021 F-150 reflects its safety monitoring process and ensures that structural and mechanical improvements are addressed before issues affect drivers on the road. If you are currently driving a pre-owned truck or thinking about trading in your vehicle, we invite you to check out our extensive pre-owned selection. At Valor Ford, we ensure that every single vehicle in our inventory is thoroughly inspected and free of outstanding safety recalls before it ever hits our lot. You can confidently Browse Used Inventory online or evaluate your own truck's trade value today. Get Your Trade-In Evaluation How Long Does It Take for Valor Ford to Complete the Steering Rack Recall Repair? At Valor Ford, we understand that your F-150 is a vital part of your daily life, and having it in the shop can disrupt your schedule. That is why our service team is committed to completing recall repairs as efficiently as possible without ever compromising on safety or quality. The physical replacement of the steering rack and pinion assembly is a highly technical procedure that typically takes our certified technicians between two to four hours of dedicated labor time. However, we ask that customers plan for their vehicle to be at our Junction City facility for a half-day to allow for thorough post-repair diagnostics and quality-control testing. During the repair process, our master technicians will disconnect the battery, drain the necessary cooling or auxiliary lines if required by your truck's specific engine configuration, and carefully extract the affected steering gear. We then install a brand-new, factory-authorized OEM steering rack assembly. Because the steering system is electronic, we must also connect your vehicle to our advanced Ford diagnostic computers to program the new EPAS module, calibrate the steering wheel angle sensor, and update any related software to ensure flawless communication with your driver-assist technologies. To guarantee that the replacement parts meet Ford's strict engineering standards, we only use genuine OEM components directly from our parts warehouse. If you ever need additional replacement parts or custom accessories for your truck, you can easily Order Genuine Ford Parts through our website to maintain your vehicle's factory specifications. Do I Need an Alignment After Replacing the Steering Rack? The short answer is: yes, absolutely. Whenever the steering rack and pinion assembly is unbolted, removed, or replaced, the physical geometry of your front suspension is altered. Even the slightest microscopic variation in how the new steering rack sits on the subframe can throw off your truck's wheel alignment. To ensure your vehicle operates safely and efficiently after the recall repair, a complete wheel alignment is a non-negotiable step in the process. Here is why performing an alignment is so critical: Prevents Tire Wear An incorrect alignment will cause your front tires to scrub against the road, leading to rapid, uneven tire wear. Performing an alignment protects your investment in high-quality truck tires. Ensures Straight Tracking Without a precise alignment, your F-150 may pull or drift to one side, requiring constant steering correction. A proper alignment guarantees the truck tracks perfectly straight. Calibrates Sensors Our alignment process includes resetting the Steering Angle Sensor (SAS). This ensures that your truck's electronic stability control and lane-keep features have an accurate center baseline. Because the alignment is a necessary part of a successful steering rack replacement, it is covered under the recall campaign. You will not have to pay out of pocket for the replacement rack or the subsequent alignment. Our team uses state-of-the-art laser alignment racks to verify that your front toe, camber, and caster are set exactly to Ford's original factory specifications before handing you back the keys. Does a Recall History Hurt the Resale Value of a Used F-150? A common concern among truck owners is how a safety recall might affect their vehicle's history report, such as CARFAX or AutoCheck, and its ultimate resale or trade-in value. Many believe that having a recall listed on the vehicle record acts as a red flag to future buyers. However, the exact opposite is true. An open, uncompleted safety recall is indeed a negative mark on a vehicle's history, but a fully documented, completed recall actually demonstrates responsible vehicle ownership and proactive maintenance. When you bring your 2021 Ford F-150 to an authorized dealership like Valor Ford, we record the completed recall repair directly in Ford's national database. This information is subsequently shared with vehicle history reporting agencies. When a prospective buyer or appraiser pulls your truck's CARFAX report in the future, they will see that the steering rack recall was resolved by factory-certified technicians using genuine parts. This serves as proof that the truck has been maintained to the highest safety standards and that its most critical steering components are brand new. Completing recall work is one of the easiest ways to protect your truck's residual value. If you are curious about what your F-150 is worth in today's current market, we encourage you to get an instant appraisal. Use our quick online tool to receive a fair, competitive valuation for your vehicle. Get Your Trade-In Evaluation Navigating Recalls in Dickinson County: Drive with Confidence For truck owners living and working throughout Junction City, Geary County, and Dickinson County, local support makes all the difference when handling manufacturer recalls. We know that driving into a dealership for service can feel like a chore, which is why Valor Ford is dedicated to redefining the dealership experience. We don't view recalls as mere transactions; we view them as an opportunity to support and protect the hard-working members of our Kansas community. Our service department is staffed by local professionals who understand the unique driving demands of our region—from agricultural hauling to daily highway commuting. To ensure your recall experience is entirely stress-free, we offer a range of customer-first conveniences. If you cannot afford to take time out of your busy day, ask our team about our service pickup and delivery options. We can arrange to pick up your F-150 from your home or workplace, transport it safely to our service center, complete the entire steering rack replacement and alignment, and return it directly to you. This ensures your life keeps moving forward without interruption while our master technicians take care of your vehicle's safety needs. We invite you to experience the Valor Ford difference firsthand. Our facility is conveniently located and easy to access. If you need to stop by for an inspection, to check parts availability, or to discuss your truck's history with our advisors, you can quickly Get Directions to Valor Ford and visit our team in Junction City today. Schedule Your Recall 2021 Ford F-150 Recall Repair at Valor Ford Today Your safety, your family's safety, and the long-term reliability of your truck should never be left to chance. If you own a 2021 Ford F-150, taking action on this steering rack and pinion recall is the single best way to ensure your truck remains safe, capable, and responsive on every Kansas road. At Valor Ford, we are fully equipped with the factory parts, specialized tools, and certified expertise required to complete this critical service quickly, professionally, and entirely free of charge. If you have concerns about steering symptoms, Contact our friendly service department today to verify your vehicle's VIN and reserve your service appointment. You can schedule your appointment instantly using our online scheduling tool, or speak with our service team directly to coordinate your visit. Let us help you drive with confidence. Schedule Ford Service Today Call Service: (785) 238-5114