The 2022 Ford Maverick Won’t Go Over $37k With Every Added Spec

by Gabrielle DeSantis

All of the buzz surrounding the 2022 Ford Maverick might seem unfounded, but it isn’t. This little Ford pickup truck might be small in size, but it is huge in what it can offer. With a variety of interior and exterior options available, buyers can add every feature available and still have a reasonably priced truck.

How much is the 2022 Ford Maverick?

The 2022 Ford Maverick Won’t Go Over $36k With Every Added Spec | Ford

The Ford Maverick is starting at $19,995 for the XL trim. Up from the XL is the XLT, starting at $22,280. The top Ford Maverick Lariat trim starts at $25,490. Should buyers want to upgrade to the 2.0L EcoBoost engine, the price jumps a bit. The XL jumps $1,085 to $21,080. The XLT increases to $23,365, and the Lariat increases to $26,575.

However, if you add every available option Ford offers on the Maverick on the online configurator, you can’t get it above $37,000. A few larger packages offered help bump up the price. Since this configuration uses the top Lariat trim, it has the Lariat Luxury Package ($3,340). The added Ford Co-Pilot 360 degree camera monitoring was $540.

The First Edition package is $1,495 and offers 17″ aluminum wheels for the gas engine or 18″ black wheels for the hybrid option. It has a black painted roof, power tilt moon roof, and first edition graphics. The special edition package included the exclusive Area 51 color.

There are a few other available packages but you have to pick between the two. For this exercise, the more expensive option was chosen to demonstrate the highest available price.

Some available 2022 Ford Maverick add-ons

$180 molded splash guards, a bed divider kit ($300), and a tool swing box case ($280) were included. A truck bed liner ($200) and bed extender ($370) were offered, and we chose the most expensive options. $120 hood deflectors and $800 bed cross bars were also added on.

The interior offers were extensive. To be safe, we added all of the assistance kits for $320. The all-weather tray mat set was a reasonable $175, and the console vault ($390) seemed like a reasonable purchase. Most of the audio options were included in the previously mentioned packages.

The 2.5L hybrid engine, front-wheel-drive, and CVT transmission were not able to be modified. These were included in the price already. A full-size spare was included for free, as was a trailer hitch receiver and bed tie-downs.

That makes the base MSRP for the 2022 Ford Maverick Lariat trim $25,490. Every possible addition included came out to an extra $9,045. The destination charge to deliver your new truck is $1,495. The grand total for the Ford Maverick is $36,030. That’s a monthly payment of $473 a month, which could be much higher.

Will there be an electric option in the future?

The 2022 Ford Maverick has a full hybrid engine or an EcoBoost engine for now. With the new Ford F-150 Lightning and the Hyundai Santa Cruz making such a splash, we have to imagine a competing Mqqaverick is coming. In addition, a four-wheel-drive option seems to be missing. This could eliminate the Maverick from a variety of buyers who require it.

Ford has focused on shifting to electric vehicles ahead of 2030, but an electric Maverick option will probably happen sooner than that. While a 2022 Ford Maverick Lightning might not be in the deck right away, it seems likely it is coming. So spec out your future Ford Maverick because it won’t break the bank and who doesn’t want one of the most talked-about new vehicles to hit the market?

RELATED: 2022 Ford Maverick vs. Hyundai Santa Cruz: Spec Battle

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Detroit Flooding Sinks Dozens of New Jeeps, Chargers, Challengers, and More

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Detroit saw a deluge of rain on June 25, 2021, that wreaked havoc across the region. Flooding has closed I-94 for days, stopped auto production at some plants, and paralyzed many areas. And a Jefferson North Assembly Plant holding yard used to haul finished vehicles to dealers got flooded. Observers could see hundreds of new vehicles. 

More rain is expected which also means more flooding

The Detroit deluge on I-94 Friday | Detroit Bureau

Mostly Jeep Grand Cherokees can be seen. But Chargers, Challengers, Ram trucks, Pacifica minivans, and more can also be spotted. They’ll all have to be written off as some are in the drink deep. And there could be even more flooding as more rain came on June 26, and will continue through July 1 according to the Detroit Bureau. 

“As a result of severe storms that came through Detroit on June 25, many expressways, surface streets, and neighborhoods in the area experienced significant flooding, including the Jefferson North Assembly Plant and an adjacent shipping yard,” Stellantis said in a prepared statement. Flood warnings were issued off and on throughout the weekend. By Saturday almost 50,000 were without power. Governor Gretchen Whitmer declared a state of emergency for metro Detroit. 

The six inches of rain on Friday overloaded sewer systems, too. It flooded basements and generally wreaked havoc across Wayne county. It happened so quickly that some people abandoned their cars because the heavy rain made streets impassable. Partially submerged cars were being checked across the region by authorities for stranded drivers. 

The Detroit area is in a state of emergency

Stellantis holding yard seen through chain-link fence
Stellantis holding yard with flooded vehicles | Detroit Bureau

“We are continuing to work closely with emergency response coordinators and local leaders across the state to address widespread flooding,” Whitmer said. “The State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate our state’s response as we rush resources to affected areas, and the state of emergency declaration will help counties access even greater assistance. I want to thank everyone who has been working 24/7 to clear roadways, restore power and communications, provide emergency services, and make sure our neighbors have what they need to get through this storm. We’ve overcome tremendous challenges this year because Michiganders are a tough people who know that we are all in this together.”

At this point, nobody knows how many new Stellantis vehicles lay flooded in the holding area. Stellantis said it was “assessing the conditions of vehicles.” Obviously, if any can be salvaged they will be. Besides the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango SUVs are made there. The bad news for all involved is that both of those Stellantis products are in extremely short supply from the microchip crisis. 

Across town in Dearborn, a Ford F-150 manufacturing plant had to be closed from flooding. Workers were prevented from entering the facility. Ford also had to stop the assembly of Broncos after the roof sprang a leak. It only started production of the new Broncos two weeks ago.

RELATED: Does Car Insurance Cover Water Damage?

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Consumer Reports Worst Trucks of 2021: Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra

by Gabrielle DeSantis

There has to be one truck at the end of the Consumer Reports list of full-sized trucks. However, since the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado and 2021 GMC Sierra are essentially the same truck, there happen to be two trucks at the end of this list. What caused these two trucks to end up at the back of the line with a score of 45? There are a few reasons.

Why did Consumer Reports give the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado a 45?

Consumer Reports: 2021 GMC Sierra, Chevrolet Silverado | Chevrolet

Consumer Reports uses a variety of criteria to calculate scores. From owner-reported issues to road tests, there are many ways for the vehicles to rack up points. However, that did not happen for the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. The Silverado came in seventh on the list of 20 full-sized trucks, but the other trucks were not yes tested. Therefore, the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra came in last on the list of full-sized trucks.

What accounts for such a low score? The predicted reliability came in at only one out of five, while the predicted owner satisfaction was only a three out of five. It did score a 78 out of 100 on the road test. The fuel economy came in at one out of five, with an overall mileage of 17 mpg. That’s 11 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The annual fuel cost is estimated to be $1,715.

One area that most potential buyers might be interested in is the section filled with safety features. For the most part, safety features buyers might expect to come standard are not standard. Forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot warning are all optional. It does offer traction control and anti-lock brakes, but it would be bizarre if those basic features were not included.

The GMC Sierra had a similar score

The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 is essentially the same truck. It came in just behind the Chevrolet Silverado, making it the last scored truck on Consumer Reports list. However, one important area that impacted both trucks is the open recalls. The trucks have three recalls for a variety of issues.

The first issue is related to the seat belt assembly. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the seat belt assembly may not be properly attached to the vehicles. The second recall is in relation to the seat belt bracket for the first recall. This one is specific to the front-row center seat position. Another recall is for over-cured tires. If the tires were overcured, a break in the sidewall could result in a crash.

What pickup truck should you buy instead?

The list of full-size pickup trucks is not very long. And to be fair, none of the trucks on this list have great scores from Consumer Reports. However, we would suggest the 2021 Ram 1500 or the 2021 Toyota Tundra if you are in a pinch and need to buy right now. These are the first and second trucks on the list, and both received a score of 63.

Large trucks tend to have quirks that cars and SUVs might not share. The biggest issues with the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra probably come down to the lack of safety features. If you go up in trim level, you might find some extra features included. The lack of safety features standard on the base trims is certainly an oversight.

Consumer Reports highlighted that the Sierra and Silverado had a roomy interior, a deep bed, and were generally quiet. If drivers were concerned with the fuel economy, the diesel engine offers better numbers for both trucks. Don’t despair if you were looking to purchase one of these new ones. There are plenty of options on the market that might have scored better in a variety of areas. The 2020 trucks and future 2022 trucks have a lot to offer buyers, too.

RELATED: Consumer Reports: Best Deals on New Cars for 4th of July

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5 Things You Need for Your Dock to Make Your Boat Last

by Gabrielle DeSantis

Summer is here, which means that boating season has arrived. It’s time to take your vessel out of storage and get it out on the water. Though you might be focused on regular boat maintenance or your next fishing trip, you also need a few things to ensure your boat is docked as safely as possible.

Bumpers and fenders protect your dock, boat, and other vessels

Stormy weather and strong waves can wreak havoc on your boat while it’s docked. Bumpers provide a good barrier between your vessel and the dock, preventing it from getting scratched or punctured when your boat rocks into the pier.

Similar to bumpers, fenders also help prevent your boat from knocking against the dock or other vessels. Dockmate Tuff Shield Fender, available through Overton’s and other retailers, is a reliable option for customizing your dock protection and comes with a burst-free guarantee.

Cover your boat whenever it’s not in use

Most boats come with covers; however, if your cover is damaged, leaky, or nonexistent, you’ll need to purchase one. A snap-on or attachable model protects your vessel from the elements and wildlife. Covers also protect your boat from fading colors due to sitting in the sunlight for extended periods. Covering your vessel ensures rainwater rolls off of your boat instead of flooding the deck or seats. And covers deter geese and other wildlife from entering your vessel.

Extendable poles help guide your boat in and out of port

An extendable pole is a helpful tool that aids in docking and undocking. You can use the extendable pole to reach out from your boat and catch the dock. And it can help you avoid hitting the dock. You can also use an extendable pole to push the boat away from the pier.

You might be tempted to reach out with your hands to grab the dock. However, an extendable pole, such as Overton’s Floating Telescoping Boat Hook, is a safer option and can prevent your hands from getting smashed between the boat and dock.

Spring lines help secure your vessel in the ideal position for docking

You can also use a spring line to assist with docking. First, make sure the spring line is tight; then gently idle your boat closely against the dock. Once your vessel is snuggly docked, tie the remaining dock lines to help keep your boat in place. You should use a durable spring line, such as Dockmate Premium Double Braid Nylon Dock Line, which combines strength, elasticity, rot resistance, and mildew resistance. Finally, securely attach the line to a sturdy dock cleat, such as the Dockmate Galvanized Dock Cleat, to hold your boat steady.

Owning a boat comes with the responsibility of upkeep and maintenance to ensure it lasts many years. If you use a public launch, make sure you’re courteous to other boaters by following proper launch etiquette. And if you have a private dock, use the above tips to help keep your boat in good condition for years to come.

RELATED: What Can You Do to Prepare Your Boat for Hurricane Season?

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