How to Decorate Your Home This Fall

PEKIN, Ill.,–– Now that the fall season is here to stay, it's time to decorate! Give your home maximum curb appeal from the inside out with our handy guide on fall decorating. You'll learn how to decorate your home this fall in no time with these easy and affordable decorating tips. Give your home a cozy, warm feel to match the changing temperatures. Decorate with pumpkins, mums, string lights, and more this autumn!

DIY Pumpkin Vase

Need a centerpiece for your table? This DIY pumpkin vase is perfect for both the Halloween and Thanksgiving season. Using a faux pumpkin and a little bit of creativity, you can turn a pumpkin of any shape, size, and color into a beautiful vase for your fall flowers!

Happy Fall Wreath

Greet your guests with a stylish, vibrant, and creative wreath this year. With twigs from your own yard and a personalized greeting, you'll have a "happy fall" wreath in no time!

Fall Leaf Art

Want to give your home a warm and cozy fall feel? This fall leaf art project only takes a few minutes and can be put together with the leaves in your backyard. It's the perfect touch to any home this fall!

Maple Leaf Mason Jars

For a natural and warm look this season, try out these maple leaf mason jars! These lights are perfect for fall evenings spent by a bonfire or even cozied up on the couch.

Flannel Coasters

Another quick and easy DIY project, these flannel coasters will add a cozy touch to any home. They only take a couple of minutes to make and will be perfect for both the fall and winter seasons!

Pumpkin Pie Garland

For something sweet, try making this pumpkin pie garland! It doesn't require much time and gives a unique appeal rather than traditional fall decorations.

Mason Jar Scone

Give your old mason jars a new home with this easy mason jar scone DIY project! Paint them white and pair them with vibrant flowers to make them really stand out. This decoration is perfect for dining rooms and fall festivities!

Patterned Pumpkins

Want an easy project for you and your entire family? Instead of carving your pumpkins this year, try a new look by painting them with fun designs! Using tape and a foam brush, the possibilities are endless!

Whether you love bonfires, apple cider, or hayrides, giving your home a festive and fall look will make it feel cozy, warm, and welcoming! Now that you know how to decorate your home this fall, let the festivities begin. If you're looking for more fall inspiration, follow our Pinterest page for recipes, DIY projects, and much more! Are you in the market to purchase a new vehicle? Find out the benefits of owning a CPO vehicle, whether or not it's right for you, and browse our Certified Pre-Owned inventory today!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Family-Friendly Fall Activities

PEKIN, Ill.,–– Fall is finally here! Now's the time to enjoy bonfires, warm cider, changing colors, apple-picking, and more fall fun. While the fall season is known for hayrides and cider mills, there's plenty of fun to be had all around Pekin! Try our list of family-friendly fall activities for unforgettable memories this season. From caramel apples to the farmer's market, the Pekin area is full of fun for everyone this autumn.

Grab a treat at Maurie's

Every fall, Maurie's in Pekin makes homemade caramel apples for everyone to enjoy. For the past 75 years, these amazing apples have been a must for Pekin residents in the fall season. Make sure you call ahead or stop in early because these tasty treats go fast and are only available from August-November. If you're in the mood for other fall necessities, you can get your hands on candy, caramel popcorn, hot chocolate, cider, and other goodies! 

Enjoy a Day at Rader Farms

Rader Family Farms, located in Normal, Illinois, is full of adventure and activities for anyone of any age! Challenge your friends to an apple shooting competition with Apple Blasters, make your way through a corn maze, explore over six acres of U-Pick pumpkins, and much more! Hungry? Rader Farms has five food and drink locations. Grab a bite to eat at Pumpkin Blossom Cafe or sip on a cup of coffee at the Harvest Brew Coffee Shop. You'll want to have a full stomach when you're ready to take on the 10-acre corn maze!

Explore the Spoon River Scenic Drive

The first two weekends of October are full of color at the Spoon River Valley Scenic Drive! Make your way through this beautiful route and discover this breathtaking corner of Fulton County. Enjoy the vibrant fall colors, explore the 50th Annual Fall Festival, and find the perfect place to camp or stay for the night! There are countless sights to see and places to go on the Spoon River Scenic Drive. Don't miss out on the annual fall festival this October!

Enjoy Fall Fun at Tanners Orchard

Tanners Orchard, located in Speer, Illinois, is celebrating over 70 years of service this fall. Get lost in the corn maze, pick your own apples in the orchard, or play a game of Tug O' War! Feeling hungry? Snack on a doughnut, grab a glass of warm apple cider and hitch a ride on a hayride as the sun sets. For an unforgettable orchard experience, look no further than Tanners Orchard!

Stop by the Heritage Farmer's Market

From September to July, the Heritage Farmer's Market provides the Pekin area with locally sourced ingredients and foods that help local families year round! Get to know the people who grow the food for your family, enjoy arts and crafts with your kids, and learn new recipes every Saturday from 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Check in with the farmer's market schedule to find out about special events and fun for the whole family!

This fall, support your local businesses and enjoy some family-friendly fall activities! You can make great memories, help the community around you, and appreciate the fall season. Did you know that owners of Certified Pre-Owned vehicles receive 24/7 roadside assistance? Owning a Ford CPO vehicle comes with a lot of unique perks that can benefit drivers, including extended warranties, a clean vehicle title, and much more. If you're interested in purchasing a CPO vehicle, take a look at our CPO inventory to browse our wide selection of vehicles and get a great deal. A CPO Ford would be the perfect vehicle to take on all your fall adventures!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Knowing the Difference Between CPO and Used Cars

PEKIN, Ill.,–– Certified pre-owned and used vehicles have many things in common. Both types of vehicles have been previously owned, are available in a variety of makes and models, and usually have affordable down payments. However, CPO and used vehicles are also very different. Knowing the difference between CPO and used cars can help you make a more informed purchase decision when it's time to buy a new vehicle. Get to know what makes a vehicle Certified or Used, and learn the benefits of purchasing one today!

What Makes a CPO Vehicle Certified?

Certified Pre-Owned vehicles must pass a 172-point inspection before they're considered Ford Certified. Each CPO vehicle must belong to one of the current or preceding 5 model years and must have no more than 80,000 miles on its odometer. CPO vehicles also receive comprehensive limited warranties, covering over 1,000 components for 10,000 miles/1 year and a limited powertrain warranty for 100,000 miles/7 years. In order to receive their certification, CPO vehicles must also have a clean title and history report, without a history of accidents or costly repairs. Find out how vehicles become CPO certified to learn more about this process and Certified Pre-Owned vehicle features.

What Makes a Used Vehicle Different From a CPO?

While Certified Pre-Owned vehicles have a rigid set of rules and regulations, used vehicles carry much less restrictions on their vehicles. You can purchase a used version of just about any make and model on our lot, no matter how old or new. Plus, if you purchase a used vehicle from us at Velde Ford, any warranties still valid on your used vehicle will carry over to you so you won't have to worry about purchasing new warranties! With more options and affordability in mind, purchasing a used vehicle provides drivers with plenty of opportunity in finding a vehicle that's up to their standards. Take a look at our used vehicle inventory to find something today!

The Pros of Owning a CPO Vehicle

Owning a CPO vehicle comes with a lot of great perks that can benefit drivers! Take a look at our CPO program overview for more information on what this exclusive program entails. Some of the biggest pros to owning a CPO can include:

• Ownership of a newer vehicle
• Comprehensive limited warranties
• Limited powertrain warranty for 7 years
• Ford-certified service
• 172-point inspection
• Clean vehicle title and history report
• 24-hour roadside assistance

The Pros of Owning a Used Vehicle

However, owning a used vehicle comes with a lot of benefits as well! At Velde Ford, you can find used vehicles of just about every make and model available. Take a look at our used vehicle inventory to find out for yourself. These are the biggest benefits to owning a used vehicle:

• Wider range of vehicle options
• Much more affordable compared to CPO
• Avoid new vehicle fees
• Negotiable prices
• Affordable insurance rates
• Transferrable warranties
• Less paperwork and time at the dealership

While CPO and used vehicles can often be confused with one another, knowing the difference between CPO and used cars can help you make your purchasing decision based off your budget and needs. Whether you're looking for a specific make and model or prefer the security of a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle, we at Velde Ford have something for everyone! Shop around our used vehicle and CPO inventory to see what we have in stock, and let us know if we can help you find anything! If you're still on the fence about CPO vehicles, consider why you should buy a CPO with our handy guide.

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Childproof Your Vehicle

PEKIN, Ill.,–– No one wants to drive around in a dirty vehicle. Crumb-filled, sticky vehicles are the nightmare of every parent's existence. What may start off as a small mess at first can quickly become a trash-filled disaster. Childproof your vehicle today to reduce the messiness of your vehicle and keep your children occupied through any drive. Whether you're planning on heading out on a vacation or going for a drive to the grocery store, these helpful tips can be the difference between a pristine vehicle and an unappealing one.

Fill Your Vehicle With Entertainment

Electronics, road games, coloring books, and more can keep your passengers occupied while you continue on your drive. This will reduce the buildup of messes and can entertain everyone in the vehicle. From the License Plate Game to 20 Questions, get everyone in the vehicle involved with fun road trip games! Before you leave for a vacation, commute, or errand with your passengers, make sure you have several forms of entertainment to reduce your distractions and prevent any messes.

Keep Your Vehicle's Entertainment Organized

Now that your vehicle is full of entertainment, you'll want to avoid creating more messes by keeping everything all in one place. IKEA hackers is a blog dedicated to repurposing old IKEA products into new uses. In their most recent endeavor, they repurposed a Flort, a remote organizer, into an entertainment organizer for their children. Keep everything in one place with a repurposed Flort to teach your kids the importance of organization!

Manage Backseat Messes With a Bath Rug

Yes, you read that correctly - a bath rug can make all the difference between a messy and clean vehicle! You can easily take it out of your vehicle and shake off any crumbs or residue that builds up on its surface and can place it back in with ease. It can protect the floor mats on your vehicle and can increase its resale value or prevent fines if you own a lease! View the quick and easy installation directions to create an efficient backseat cleaner!

Turn an Art Caddy into a Food Container

Another great way to minimize messes in your vehicle is by repurposing art caddies into food containers! They're relatively inexpensive and can help make a huge difference with the buildup of messes, as passengers can contain most of their debris within these caddies. While it may not prevent the spread of crumbs that end up everywhere, it will at least teach your children the value of organization, especially with food!

Use Shopping Bags to Clean Up Trash

Put your plastic shopping bags to good use by keeping one or two in your vehicle to clean up trash easily! Keep yourself and your passengers accountable by hanging them from the backs of your front seat's headrests. That way, everyone in the back can throw their trash in the grocery bags instead of scattering it throughout your vehicle. You can also use your shopping bags to carry emergency supplies, food, or other necessities, giving your passengers easy access should they need it.

Whether you're heading on a cross-country road trip or are visiting friends, make sure you childproof your vehicle to protect it from a potential backseat disaster. Traveling soon? Keep your kids occupied on road trips to reduce distractions, messes, and "are we there yet?"s. Before you know it, school will be starting up again. Grab everything your elementary schooler may need with our back to school shopping list to prepare them for the new year! 

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Back to School Checklist for Elementary Schoolers

PEKIN, Ill.,–– In no time, school will be starting up again! The thought of school starting up again can be exciting for some kids, while others will dread counting down the days till they have to wake up early again. No matter how they feel, however, they always enjoy picking out their school supplies for the upcoming year. It gives kids a chance to express themselves and choose a style that best fits them. We've put together a back to school checklist for elementary schoolers so your 1st-5th graders can come to school prepared and stylish every day! While individual teachers have different requirements for their classrooms, this list should serve as a helpful starting point so you can have a head start on back to school shopping!

1st Grade

Make sure you and your child check these items off your list. You'll need them, especially for their first day of elementary school!

• 1 Backpack
• 1 box of 24 crayons
• 2 Erasers
• 2-3 glue sticks
• 1 pair of rounded scissors
• 1 pencil case for organization
• 12 #2 pencils
• 1 3-ring binder
• 1 8oz bottle of hand sanitizer
• 1 pack of washable markers

2nd Grade

Similar to the 1st grade shopping list, 2nd grade shopping is a little easier but you'll need some different supplies.

• 1 backpack
• 1 package of Post-It notes
• 1 package of disinfectant wipes
• 2 notebooks
• 2 3-ring binders
• 2 highlighters
• 1 pencil box
• 12 sharpened or mechanical pencils
• 2 large erasers
• 5 2-pocket folders

3rd Grade

3rd grade is the beginning of multiplication and division tables. Help your child remain ahead of the curve by providing them with math flashcards, loose leaf paper to help them learn on their own, and other supplies to get ahead of the curve!

• 1 package of loose leaf paper
• 1 set of multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction tables/flashcards
• 1 package of portable hand sanitizer 
• 2 composition notebooks
• 1 box of 12 colored pencils
• 5 pencils and 5 mechanical pencils w/erasers
• 1 package of portable wipes
• 1 yellow highlighter
• 2 erasers
• 1 12" ruler

4th Grade

Around the 4th grade, students begin to learn how to edit their own work and the work of others with red pens. Getting them started on organization with folders, notebooks, and binders will improve their editing and writing abilities.

• 2 3-pronged pocket folders
• 4 spiral notebooks
• 2 red pens
• 1 box of 12 colored pencils
• 1 pair of scissors
• 2 - 12 packs of #2 pencils
• 1 pair of PE shoes, shorts, shirt
• 1 package of scotch tape
• 1 stick/bottle of glue
• 1 school supply bag/pouch/pencil case

5th Grade

If your child's elementary school only goes to 5th grade, then this is the last year before they head into middle school. Help them pick out their supplies, but let them pick out anything they'd like to express themselves. These items should help your child remain prepared for their last year of elementary school:

• 2 3-subject notebooks
• 2 binders w/dividers
• 5 pocket folders w/prongs
• 1 package of black pens
• 1 package of looseleaf paper
• 1 set of dry erase markers
• 2 packages of Post-It notes
• 1 roll of clear tape
• 2 yellow highlighters
• 2 bottles of portable hand sanitizer

We hope this back to school checklist for elementary schoolers helps you and your child pick out supplies that will last the entire year! From 1st to 5th grade, our comprehensive list is full of options that allow your children to express themselves, from folders to backpacks to writing utensils. If you're looking for a great way to save some extra money for back to school shopping, refer to our coupons when you need routine maintenance or work done on your vehicle! Use some of our vehicle tips and tricks for additional ways to extend the life of your vehicle and save more money, too!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Collision Services Offered At Velde Ford

PEKIN, Ill.,–– In the event of an accident, getting your vehicle in for repairs and scheduling an appointment for service can seem like a daunting task. That's why we at Velde Ford are here to help! We understand how stressful car accidents can be, and our goal is to make the entire process as stress-free as we can. We prioritize simple, efficient, and quick service for each and every of our customers as if they were our own family! Take a look at the collision services offered at Velde Ford to find out how we can help you get your vehicle looked at and fixed today!

Collision Center & Body Shop Services at Velde Ford

Our Collision Center at Velde Ford serves all make and models, and is fully staffed with an experienced team and state-of-the-art tools to service any kind of vehicle! Our direct repair facility allows you to get your vehicle serviced and your insurance taken care of, all at our Collision Center! If your vehicle requires repair over a long time and you need to get back on the road, we offer rental vehicles so you'll be able to continue your day while we work on your vehicle. From estimates to auto paint touch-ups and heavy frame repairs, we can help get your vehicle back in tip-top shape.

The best way to prevent vehicle collisions from happening is by remaining safe and attentive on the road. Knowing the types of vehicle collisions and how to avoid them is a great way to avoid any trips to our Collision Center. As much as we'd love to see you, we'd rather you remain safe on the road to save money and prevent any costly repairs from occurring! Predicting the behavior of other drivers can be very difficult, so knowing what to do in the event of a collision will help you remain prepared if a car accident does occur. Make sure to contact us if something occurs and we can get towing out to you right away! We'll even drive you to our Collision Center and get you set up with a rental vehicle so you can carry on with your day.

Whether you need your windshield fixed or your auto frame straightened, the collision services offered at Velde Ford will bring your vehicle back up to speed right away! We inspect your vehicle and provide you with a written estimate to keep you in the loop on pricing and repair costs. We're also happy to help you contact your insurance company, because we're a direct repair facility, so you'll be able to file a claim with ease Whether you're from Pekin, Washington, Marquette Heights, Morton, Canton, Peoria, Tremont, Bellevue, or anywhere in the area, we're happy to assist you! Schedule an estimate with us today and check out our wide variety of collision services!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Top 20 Road Trip Essentials

PEKIN, Ill.,–– Packing for a road trip? If you're planning on heading out of state, across the country, or simply through Illinois, we have a guide for you! To make your vacation a fun, exciting, and relaxing experience, make sure you bring these top 20 road trip essentials so you and your passengers have the best time possible. A great way to plan out your road trip is by budgeting out your gas with the AAA Gas Calculator. It gives you an estimate on how much gas your vehicle will require, prices in the areas you travel, and more based on the make and model of your vehicle.

1. Jacket: If you're going somewhere warm, it won't hurt to bring a jacket in case it rains or gets cold at night.
2. Boarding Passes, Tickets, Etc: These are some of the most frequently forgotten items on road trips, and are essential in ensuring you make it to your destination!
3. Extra Phone Charger: There's always a chance you may lose or misplace your phone charger, so bringing an extra one will keep your phone at full battery whenever you need it.
4. Several Pairs of Shoes: Tennis shoes, flip flops, and weather appropriate footwear will keep your feet comfortable on the beach, sidewalk, or wherever you go!
5. Extra SD Card: If you fill up your SD card on your camera, you can keep an extra SD card to fill with other memories so you won't have to delete old photos.
6. Copies of Travel Documents: If you're driving or traveling outside the country, keeping extra copies of your travel documents will save you a trip home and can reduce a lot of stress.
7. Headphones: Listen to your favorite tunes while shutting out any unnecessary noise with a pair of sound-isolating headphones.
8. Extra Tube of Toothpaste: In case you run out, bring an extra tube! You'll save yourself some extra money in the long run.
9. Sunscreen: In some tourist destinations, sunscreen can cost as much as $8 per bottle. Avoid an extra trip to a convenience store by bringing a bottle of sunscreen!
10. Hats: On scorching hot days, hats can protect your head from sunburns and discomfort.
11. Towels: Whether you're going to the beach or exploring a big city, bringing a towel never hurts if you have to dry off from a day full of swimming.
12. Sunglasses: This may seem like a no-brainer, but if you forget your pair, you'll have to purchase some from the convenience store, and like sunscreen, it can get very expensive!
13. Extra Socks: Have you ever tried to put on wet socks? It's not an enjoyable experience. Prevent this inconvenience by bringing extra socks along for the journey.
14. Umbrella: Protect yourself from any unexpected rain, snow, or other weather with an umbrella. On sunny days, it can help you reduce the chances of sunburn!
15. Snacks: For long journeys, whether you're on a plane or driving, snacks can hold you over and reduce the frequency of pit stops.
16. Medication: Bringing along ibuprofen or Tylenol can help you in the event that someone gets a sore throat or feels sick to avoid any road bumps in the trip!
17. Refillable Water Bottle: Help the planet out with a refillable water bottle so you won't have to purchase so much disposable plastic. Plus, they are easy to fill up and help save space!
18. Hand Sanitizer: In case you stop somewhere that's a little less than ideal, hand sanitizer will keep everyone's hands clean and prevent the spreading of germs!
19. First-Aid Kit: In case you run into an emergency, making sure your first-aid kit in your vehicle is well stocked will prepare you for any situation. It's better to be safe than sorry.
20. An Empty Bag: This may seem a little silly, but bringing an empty bag gives you the chance to fill it with any souvenirs you collect along the way!

There are tons of things you can bring on your vacation, but these top 20 road trip essentials should keep you prepared for just about anything you'll encounter on the road. Before you leave on your road trip, however, you'll want to make sure your vehicle is able to handle the road ahead. Use these summer car care tips to prepare yourself (and your vehicle) for the summer, whether you're going on a road trip or simply heading to work! Give us a call if you'd like to have your vehicle inspected before you leave for your vacation. Our helpful Service Staff can inspect all of the components of your vehicle to make sure you'll be able to hit the road without any bumps along the way!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Great Gardening Tips for Beginners this Summer

PEKIN, Ill.,–– Gardening is one of the most satisfying hobbies you can undertake this summer, but it can also be one of the most challenging. Providing the right amount of sunlight, fertilizer, and water to all of your plants can be difficult to keep track of. However, watching your flowers bloom and your vegetables sprout and grow is worth the wait and the effort! Earn your green thumb this season with these great gardening tips for beginners this summer!

Get Your Soil Tested

Your garden's soil provides nutrients to your plants, keeping them healthy and growing. Keeping track of your soil's pH levels and texture will determine whether or not plants can grow in your garden. Since certain plants thrive in specific pH levels, it's best to get your soil tested so you know what plants can and can't grow. For example, the ground near or underneath pine trees will likely have very acidic soil due to the falling needles, and be much tougher for plants to grow in. You can either send your soil in to a nearby nursery, or get your own testing kit from Home Depot or Lowe's. If you'd like to try a homemade testing kit, put soil in two cups of water. Then, put baking soda in one cup, and vinegar in another. If the vinegar cup fizzes, you have alkali soil, and if the baking soda cup fizzes, you have acidic soil.

Repurpose Coffee Grounds & Eggshells

These homemade remedies are perfect if you need to keep pesky insects away from your plants! Sprinkling used coffee grounds in your soil will keep ants, snails, and slugs away from your budding plants. If you coarsely crush your egg shells and sprinkle them around your plants, you can create a barricade to protect them from slugs, snails, and other soft-bodied pests. The smell of eggshells and coffee grounds are deterrents for deer and other hungry mammals, too! Coffee grounds and eggshells also make excellent compost, providing more nutrients to your growing plants.

Keep Your Plant Tags

If you aren't sure about how much or how little to water your plant or what environment is most healthy for it, keeping the plant tags will help! Your plant tags detail how much water it needs, the sunlight it requires, and the environment it grows best in. You can even create a scrapbook to keep track of the plants you're growing, their requirements, and, if you're feeling creative, a few sketches of what the plant looks like. It's a great way to keep track of your plants' needs!

Keep an Easy-to-Read Rain Gauge

Rain gauges are extremely useful on both hot and rainy summer days. You can monitor the amount of water that gets to your plants to determine whether they're getting not enough or too much. Rain gauges, while very helpful, can be occasionally difficult to read, especially on rainy and humid days. Put a few droplets of food coloring in the gauge to make the water level extremely legible, helping you keep track of the output of your sprinkler or rainwater. Just make sure you install it away from the trees to prevent water runoff!

Start with Easy Plants

The best way to hone your skills as a gardener is to get started with some easy-to-maintain plants! These little guys require little to no maintenance and provide the perfect starting point as you dive headfirst into gardening. Plants like lavender, snapdragons, and pansies are very low maintenance and can live a very long time if properly cared for. Once you've built up your confidence with these plants, you can expand your garden with some easy-to-grow vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and basil. Before you know it, you'll have a fully furnished garden with the best homegrown veggies of the Midwest!

Gardening can be tedious, but remaining diligent and attentive to your plants will give you a beautiful landscape and fresh fruits and vegetables for your home. Give your home's exterior a personal touch with these great gardening tips for beginners this summer. For some additional inspiration, hobbies, and crafting ideas this summer, follow our DIY + Crafts page on Pinterest! Also, keep an eye out for our regularly updated coupons and follow our summer car care tips to keep your vehicle in good working order this season. But if you're in the market for a new vehicle, take a look at our Ford crossover comparison to find the perfect crossover for your lifestyle!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Different Types of Vehicle Collisions and How to Avoid Them

PEKIN, Ill.,–– According to the National Safety Council, in 2016, over 4.6 million people were injured in car accidents last year. At Velde Ford, your safety is our biggest priority. We want our customers to maintain their and their passenger's safety and prepare themselves for any vehicle situation on and off the road. We've put together a list of different types of vehicle collisions and how to avoid them to reduce your chances of getting into a car accident. While, in some cases, it can be impossible to stop an accident from occurring, this list should help remind you to remain alert and ready to reduce or prevent an accident.

Single Car Accidents

Single car accidents are exactly as they sound, because they only involve one vehicle. These types of accidents can be caused by a wide range of factors, from runaway deer to slippery roads, but usually occur when drivers aren't paying attention or aren't properly adjusting their driving to the condition of the road. These types of accidents can cause a wide range of damage and injury depending on the impact point and severity of the accident, but are one of the most preventable types collisions. Remaining alert and utilizing your mirrors, windshield wipers, lights and high-beams, and keeping close watch of warning signs and nearby drivers can help to reduce the chances of a single car accident from occurring.

Rear-End Collisions

Rear-end collisions are the most common type of car accident and occur when one driver hits another from behind, typically causing damage to both vehicles. Depending on the speed of the rear-ender, damages can be very minor or potentially very costly and can even deploy airbags. The vehicle that rear-ends another usually receives more damage, and in some instances, can severely damage critical components of their vehicle. The best way to prevent rear-end collisions from happening is by keeping a safe distance from other vehicles. Keep your eyes on the road to avoid any potential distractions, and be prepared to brake in emergencies or when following other drivers closely in traffic. 

Side-Impact Collisions

Better known as "T-bone" or "broadside" collisions, side-impact collisions are when the side of one vehicle is hit by the front of another. The speed of both vehicles and the angle at which the side-impacter hits the other vehicle can cause potentially extreme vehicle damage and injuries to persons within the vehicles. These types of collisions can be very expensive and dangerous, because they typically involve body work in repair, and are most likely to occur at intersections and stops. Going slow and paying attention to other drivers, even during green lights, is the best way to prevent side-impact collisions.

Sideswipe Collisions

Different from side-impact collisions, sideswipe collisions happen when two vehicles driving parallel to one another touch and "swipe" each other. The damage range for sideswipe collisions is entirely dependent on the direction both vehicles are heading, the speed, and the impact itself. If both vehicles are traveling in the same direction and neither lose any control, they may only suffer minor cosmetic damage. However, if they're going separate directions, it can cause vehicles to lose control and spin into objects or other vehicles, causing property damage and personal injury. To avoid these types of collisions, keep an eye on your blind spots before switching lanes and make sure to avoid vehicles you see that are swerving or driving close to or over the lane lines. 

Multi-Car Pileups

Involving two or more vehicles, multi-car pileups are most likely to happen on highways and freeways. Multi-car pileups can occur vey quickly and can be among the most expensive types of accidents due to the multi-risk factor. They can potentially cause fires, severe injuries, and costly damage or vehicle totaling. If you're involved in this type of collision, stay in your vehicle to avoid the risk of getting injured from what's happening outside. Keeping a safe distance from other vehicles and being aware of the road's condition will greatly reduce your risk of getting in a multi-car pileup. Remaining attentive of all situations will ensure your safety on the highway.

We know that it's impossible to predict the behavior of other drivers, but informing yourself on different types of vehicle collisions and how to avoid them will increase your safety on the road and minimize your chances of getting into an accident. If you happen to find yourself in an accident and need auto body repair or collision services, we'd be happy to help! Your insurance company cannot tell you where to go for repairs. It's your choice, so choose the best! You can schedule a free collision repair estimate online, or by giving our friendly team a call. 

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Ford Ranks #2 in Initial Quality by J.D. Power

PEKIN, Ill.,––J.D. Power, a global market research company, runs a study each and every year. This year, the annual IQS (Initial Quality Study) came with some surprises. Ford now ranks #2 in initial quality by J.D Power. This is the best ranking Ford has received yet in the 31 years the IQS has been conducted. In fact, vehicle satisfaction as a whole is now at its highest level. Let's take a look at the study and some of its findings:

First, this study is run to measure new car owner satisfaction and vehicle quality. The data is collected from the first 90 days of vehicle ownership, and is done with over 200 study parameters! The data comes from about 80,000 new-car owners of 33 brands and various models from each brand.

The data collected reveals audio/communication/entertainment/navigation to still be the highest cause for complaint or most identified problem area, yet it was also the category with the most improvement. Ford has most definitely been a part of this movement. Ford is working on equipping 70% of vehicles with SYNC 3, which is significantly improved in comparison to previous SYNC versions.

The study also revealed Ford took a big leap in vehicle problems. In 2016 Ford vehicles 102 problems per 100 vehicles, but improved to 86/100 in 2017. The "Big 3", which includes Ford, outperformed imports in this category for the second year in a row.

Within the IQS, J.D. Power ranks top cars, trucks, and SUV models. The 2017 Ford Expedition ranked in the top 10, and came out #9 in 24 ranked vehicles. This model had no changes, but will see a big change with the redesigned 2018 model. The 2017 Ford Mustang also ranked in the top ten and came out #10.

At Velde Ford, it's our goal to treat you like family which means providing you the highest quality Ford vehicles. We're proud to offer the #2 ranked car brand in initial quality by J.D. Power. If you're interested in a large SUV or a sports car, we highly recommend taking a test drive of the 2017 Ford Expedition or 2017 Ford Mustang to feel the quality for yourself! Stay tuned to our blog and on social media for new information about the redesigned and refreshed 2018 models and new technology, safety, and quality innovations Ford continues to roll out!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Why You Should Consider Buying a CPO Ford

PEKIN, Ill., – If you are in the market for a new vehicle, there are several 'types' of vehicles you can choose from. You can purchase or lease a new vehicle, purchase a used vehicle, or purchase a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO). Each have their own unique benefits, but today, we'll be talking about why you should consider buying a CPO Ford. If you're thinking about buying used, a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle is a great option! Take a closer look at why by reading below.

CPO vehicles must meet initial quality marks, come with extensive warranty coverage, and offer the reliability you want in a new-to-you vehicle.

First, the vehicle must be within the previous 5 model years, have less than 80,000 miles, and have a clean title obtained through the vehicle history report process. If a vehicle doesn't meet these qualifications, it will not become a CPO!

Next, the vehicle must pass a rigorous 172-point inspection process in order to be classified as a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. You'll be able to enjoy warranty coverage and roadside assistance at a much cheaper rate with a CPO! Make the most of these features and more today. 

Lastly, you'll be able to rest easy knowing that your CPO Ford is safe and secure with the unique warranty and roadside assistance program. Your Certified Pre-Owned Ford will come equipped with a 12-month/12,000-mile comprehensive limited warranty and a 7-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty. These warranties, coupled with the reliable roadside assistance program, keep you and your vehicle insured and safe anywhere your road travels take you (in the U.S. and Canada)! 

We hope this brief overview of why you should consider buying a CPO Ford helps you better understand the benefits of buying used over buying new! Take a look at the our wide range of CPO vehicles available to you at Velde Ford, and make an appointment to take a test drive. If you're still mulling over your buying options, and aren't sure where to look, our staff would be more than happy to guide you. We're proud to serve the areas of Pekin, North Pekin, Peoria, Normal, Chatham, East Peoria, Bloomington, and beyond!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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The Velde Lease Experience

PEKIN, Ill., – At Velde Ford, we hold ourselves to a very high standard and strive to make your experience at our car dealership fun and enjoyable. With the Velde lease experience, we will go above and beyond to make sure that you find the vehicle of your dreams for an affordable rate. Leasing with Velde Ford allows you to "rent" a brand new vehicle of your choice for a few years with a fixed and affordable rate. We will work with you every step of the way and create a welcoming and positive environment for everyone from first-time vehicle owners to retirees looking for the perfect ride! It's our goal at Velde Ford to make sure we aren't like the average dealership. We want to make your experience at Velde Ford the best it can possibly be!

We'd rather see you satisfied with your purchase than sell a vehicle. This is what separates us from the typical dealership. If you choose to lease a vehicle, no matter what vehicle you choose, we will make sure you get a good deal. Ensuring your satisfaction with your purchase is our top priority. We're happy to help you through the whole process, too! Leasing a vehicle can be a confusing process, but we're here to reduce as much stress as we can. Our sales staff will be happy to sit with you in our lobby, offer a refreshment, and answer any questions you may have. Making sure you know what you'll be getting with your lease, as well as the terms of the lease, is the most important part of the Velde Lease Experience. 

There are quite a few benefits when you choose to lease a vehicle through Velde Ford Pekin. Some of the biggest perks of the Velde Lease Experience include:

• Low Out-of-Pocket Repair Costs: Since all of our leased vehicles come with warranties that typically last through your entire lease, you won't have to worry about costly repairs.
• A Brand New Car Every Few Years: If you continue to lease vehicles, in a few years, you'll be able to replace your previous vehicle with a brand new one! This will eliminate the hassle of trying to sell your old vehicle, potential costs, and it'll give you a fresh new ride every few years!
• Low Sales Tax: You'll only have to pay sales tax on the financed portion. The rest of the taxes are covered, which means you'll have a much lower sales tax compared to a purchased vehicle.
• Down Payments are Less than a Loan: Since you only pay for the amount of time you use the vehicle, you will be paying much less than you normally would when you purchase a vehicle.

If you're having difficulty choosing between leasing and buying a vehicle, consider these leasing benefits! The Velde Lease Experience means much more than selling vehicles. We don't want to make a sale - we want to ensure that you have the best car dealership experience possible. We're not in the business of making a quick buck: we're in the business of making friends. Take a look at some of the other benefits of the Velde Lease Experience on our website, or contact us to set up an appointment to talk about it in person! Although we're located in Pekin, we're happy to service the surrounding communities of Peoria, East Peoria, Lincoln, Bloomington, Washington, Chatham, North Pekin, Midway, Normal, and beyond!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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Summer Car Care & Organizational Tips

PEKIN, Ill., – Check the temperature: sunny days and warm weather are here to stay! Road trip season has officially begun, which means you'll be spending a lot of time in your vehicle. With that in mind, we've put together a list of summer car care and organizational tips to get your vehicle ready to go for any road trip, no matter how big or small! From cooling systems to U/V protection, we've got you covered with tips and tricks to make sure you enjoy every drive this season. We've also included a few DIY tips to help you keep your vehicle organized for those long drives. Gear up and get your vehicle up to speed this summer!

1. Regularly Check Your Cooling System

Keeping your engine cool is just as important as keeping yourself cool! Your engine's coolant helps to reduce the temperature of the engine on hot days, and without coolant, it can heat up your engine and potentially cause a lot of damage to the interior. If you see any colorful fluids leaking from your vehicle or smell something sweet, bring your vehicle into our Service Center to get it checked out immediately!

2. Make Sure Your A/C is Working

This is a no-brainer, but it's better to be safe than sorry! You won't want to be stuck in rush hour traffic or on a road trip without a fresh breeze cooling you down. If you notice a lack of airflow or your vehicle doesn't produce A/C, get it checked out as soon as you can! Sometimes, all you may need is just a simple filter or fan replaced. These simple fixes can make all the difference in the world on scorching hot Illinois days!

3. Clean Your Car's Exterior and Interior

You'd be surprised at how much of a difference this can make! Having a cleaner interior will help on hot days and decrease internal temperatures when you enter your vehicle. If your windshield is dirty, it can get extremely hazy on hot summer nights and make it difficult to drive. Making sure you have a clean interior and exterior is not only safe, but it'll make your car look a lot better for those fun nights out with your family and friends!

4. Check Your Vehicle's Suspension

The long winter seasons take a toll on a vehicle's suspension, especially during pothole season. Repeated damage to the suspension can misalign your wheels and steering. A good rule of thumb is that if it takes a lot of effort to turn, there is a chance you could have damage to your suspension. If you've hit a large pothole and your steering seems a bit off, schedule an appointment as soon as you can. Our Service Staff is extremely experienced with suspension care and will get your car back into your hands in no time!

5. Keep An Eye on Your Fluid Levels

Keeping a lookout for wiper fluid, power steering fluid, brake pad fluids, and oil levels will allow your vehicle to run smoothly and efficiently through the warm months. Your power steering fluid will help you control your car through turns and reduce resistance, while your brake pad fluids will help to reduce resistance with braking, especially in quick scenarios. Your oil helps to lubricate your vehicle's engine, which will keep it running without heating or warping any other parts of the vehicle. While it may be a hot summer, the chance of it raining is extremely likely! Make sure you've got wiper fluid to wash off any dirt on your windshield so that you can drive clearly!

Keep your car clean this summer with these organizational ideas:

• If you have a dog, consider investing in a dog seat cover. This will keep the fur off your seats!
• Add hooks or hangers to your seats to carry groceries or backpacks easily.
• Get a cooler for your car to keep some drinks nice and chilly for the kids!
• Store plastic bags in a Kleenex box. They could come in handy later!
• Keep loose change in an empty gum container so you can have it nearby without making a mess.

If you like these ideas, check out our Pinterest page for more DIY car fun! Organizing your vehicle can be fun and easy this summer with these summer car care and organizational tips! You can keep your vehicle clean and your passengers happy with some quick and easy maintenance. In no time, you'll have a fresh and efficient vehicle and you'll be ready to tackle road trip season! By following all of our tips, you'll have more room, increased safety, and extended life for your vehicle in only a matter of minutes! If you're in need of additional vehicle maintenance, feel free to schedule an appointment and our Service Staff will get your vehicle back on the road as soon as possible!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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How to Treat Your Dad Right This Father's Day

PEKIN, Ill.,––Next Sunday, June 18th, is Father's Day! Just like Mother's Day, this holiday is all for celebrating Dad. Whether you have a Father, Husband, Grandpa, or Brother that you're honoring for being an awesome parent, there are plenty of ways to do so. If you're celebrating a certain father in your life, but aren't quite sure what to do, we can help. Check out these simple ideas on how to treat your Dad right this Father's Day.

1. Give Him a Homemade Gift

You can make him a neat gift yourself, or have the little ones craft something up. Personalized homemade gifts are some of the most valuable. Here are a few ideas:

-A decorated photo frame 

-A themed basket of small gifts

-A painted t-shirt

-A coin plate or memory box

-A keychain

-A card with a handwritten message

2. Make Him a Delicious Meal

Show your Dad you truly care and whip him up his favorite meal! Whether you make a dinner for a crowd, or a dessert for a few, we know he'll appreciate a tasty treat. Get some great ideas on our Pinterest page! 

3. Run Errands for Him

You can easily let your Dad relax on Father's Day, or any other day by dedicating your time and energy towards the things he might not really want to do, a.k.a. errands. Here are a few ideas:

-Get his oil changed (schedule an oil change appointment at Velde Ford online)
-Mow the lawn
-Wash the car
-Clean the house or do chores
-Fix something around the house

4. Do a Special Activity with Him

Depending on what your Dad likes to do, spending time together is one of the best gifts you can give because you can make memories together. Some ideas of activities you could do together:

-Grill dinner
-Go golfing
-Get some ice cream
-Go to a Peoria Chiefs game
-Take a walk along the Peoria riverfront
-Watch his favorite show or movie
-Reminisce on old photos
-Go for a drive (schedule a test drive with a Mustang at Velde Ford and surprise him!)



We hope all the Dad's in Pekin, Illinois have a wonderful Father's Day next Sunday with our tips on how to treat your Dad right! If your Dad is looking for a new Ford F-150 or Ford Mustang, we'd be happy to help. We're a family-owned dealership and we're happy to treat each and every one of our customers as family, too. Learn more about who we are and how we can provide you a great dealership experience!

At Velde Ford, we're committed to providing our customers with an unbeatable level of service and a great car buying experience. Stop by the dealership located at 2200 North 8th Street, Pekin, IL 61554 or visit our website: VeldeFordPekin.com for more information.

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