Get Through the Winter Season with Car Care Tips on NorthBrotherFord.net

WESTLAND, Mich – Winter can be the hardest season on your vehicle. Low temperatures, snow, and ice are only some of the obstacles you could face this Michigan winter. But don’t let the performance or safety of your vehicle take a hit! With the winter car care tips and vehicle maintenance at North Brothers Ford you can make sure your vehicle is prepared with precautionary routine maintenance care. By inspecting and maintaining the components below you can keep your vehicle in great shape through the winter season and beyond.

Tires 

When the roads get slick don’t risk your safety by ignoring basic tire care. Explore this page for tips on how to keep your tires in optimal condition year round by proper inflation, inspection, and rotation. Plus, learn how winter tires are different from all-seasons and why they're a worthy investment!

Batteries

The last thing you want to worry about this winter is a vehicle that won’t start. Learn about how cold weather affect your car's battery and signs that your battery needs changing on this page. We'd be happy to professionally inspect your battery at your next oil change at North Brothers Ford!

Brakes 

Your brakes are one of the most important vehicle components when it comes to winter vehicle maintenance! With the snow and ice, it's necessary to have properly working brakes. From brake inspections, repairs, and replacements, North Brothers has you covered. Read this page to learn more about signs your brakes need repair.

Oil Changes

Oil Changes are one of the simplest and most important routine services you can do for your vehicle! Making sure your oil is changed during the winter is especially important as the cold weather can make your oil thick like molasses, making your vehicle work harder to run, especially if your oil is already old! Explore this page to learn more and to schedule your oil change at North Brothers.

Wiper Blades

Snow and sleet often cause vision problems when you hit the road in the winter. Making sure your wiper blades are clearing your windshield well, and your washer fluid tank is full is the easiest way to avoid some of those pesky winter weather windshield issues. Learn more about the signs your wiper blades need to be replaced on this page, and schedule service online.

Here at North Brothers Ford we want you to be safe this winter, and every season. Our team of trained technicians are available to help you get through the cold months without the worry of whether your vehicle is prepared to handle the harsh weather. Our Certified Service Center can inspect, repair, and replace any component necessary. Whether you have questions on brakes, batteries, tires, oil changes, or wiper blades, we are here to help with winter car care tips to get you and your car through the season!

If it's a new vehicle you're looking for to get you through the rough winter weather, we can help with that too! Ford's lineup includes some incredible SUVs, like the 2018 Ford Explorer, equipped with 4WD or AWD and advanced safety features that'll give you the confidence to ride through the snow like no other.

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 855-739-2023, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbrothersford.net

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Ford - The Official Vehicle of America's Thanksgiving Parade

WESTLAND, Mich.,––Did you know this year's America's Thanksgiving Parade will be the 91st edition?! Ford, the Official Vehicle of America's Thanksgiving Parade will be rolling out a celebration on Woodward Ave. in Detroit on a fleet of Ford SUVs on Thursday, November 23rd.

Each year a new theme is showcased on Woodward Avenue as the parade rolls through on Thanksgiving, and this time, it's about Woodward! The theme is appropriately named "Woodward!! Avenue of Dreams!" in honor of the revitalization of downtown Detroit, including the new QLine. The parade will be led by the all-new Ford Expedition, Ford Explorer, and the newest member of the family, the Ford EcoSport.

If you're a fan of rap music, you might know the name Big Sean. Hailing from the city of Detroit, he'll be back this year acting as the parade's coveted grand marshal alongside one of Detroit's favorite and recently retired news anchor, Carmen Harlan. They will be presenting the parade as a nod to Ford's history of innovation and future in autonomous innovation and smart mobility.

Ford has not only teamed up with the Parade Company, but also Gleaners Community Food Bank to promote feeding the people in our community who need it most. Ford is also again partnering with the Detroit Area Agency on Aging for the second year in a row to assemble meals for their Holiday Meals on Wheels program. If you're interested in giving back this Thanksgiving, you can donate to Gleaners online at gcfb.org!

Can't make it to the parade in downtown Detroit to watch Ford lead America's Thanksgiving Parade? Catch it on WDIV-TV from 10am - 12pm. While your Ford might not be toting a giant float or the star of the show, we do hope it provides you the tools you to travel comfortably and safely wherever you go this Thanksgiving and Black Friday. If you're in need of an oil change before any of your holiday travels, don't hesitate to stop by our Quicklane for fast and courteous service. Additionally, if you're in the market for a new car this Christmas, stop by our dealership in Westland to shop our wide range of new Ford vehicles.


North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

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Circuit Workouts You Can Do at Home During the Holiday Season

WESTLAND, Mich.,––The holidays often come with a lot of stress. From running around in the kitchen cooking and baking to running around the mall shopping for last minute gifts to trying to coordinate all your family and friends for get togethers. All of the holiday fun can be exhausting, but one of the best ways to keep your energy up and keep your stress down is to get a workout in!

It may seem counterintuitive, but exercise can boost the release of endorphins (the feel good hormone), boost your oxygen intake, and improve your sleep so you can rest up properly for all the holiday activities. Many of us travel out of state or have family visiting, but that doesn't have to get in the way of a good workout! Check out these circuit workouts you can do at home during the holiday season below. We recommend properly warming up before each workout by doing some dynamic stretching and then cooling down by doing some static stretching afterwards to avoid injury and stiffness.

This workout is technically a warmup, set to Demi Lovato's "Sorry Not Sorry" song, but it can be used as a workout, too. Try doing this warmup 3 times, with about 30 seconds to a minute of rest in between each set. If you don't feel like listening to the song three times over, do each move 15 times, instead of the recommended time, as a set. 

This one is specifically for your core, but will work other parts of your body as well. Don't have time to do each circuit three times? Pick one set of three and do it five times with a little cardio like jumping jacks, toe taps, or high knees, in between each set.

This mostly-core circuit only takes about 20 minutes, but be prepared to sweat! You'll do all of these exercises back to back and only rest for 30 seconds to a minute in between each set. 

Have you heard of barre? There are many barre fitness clubs available around Metro Detroit, but you can do some of the moves at home without the actual barre. Try this circuit! If you don't have weights, no worries, just keep some tension in your arms as if you were holding weights.

If you're looking to build more strength in your arms and upper body, try this workout. Note that this workout does require weights. Make it into a circuit by doing each move 12-15 times back to back as one set, then rest for 30 seconds to a minute in between each set. 

You don't need a treadmill or elliptical machine to get your cardio in. You don't need to even go outside in the cold for a run! Each move in this workout is recommended to be completed 50x, but you can decrease the number or build a circuit out of this to make it a little different. Do each move 15 times back to back for one set and do three sets total, and rest for a full minute in between each set. See the full instructions and videos online if you're not sure what to do. 

All it takes to stay energized and stress-free this holiday season is a good workout, and you can get it all done in the comfort of your own home with these circuit workouts! If these options are a little too intense for your abilities, try cutting the number of reps required for each move, or start with just 2 sets instead of 3 for the circuit. Any little bit of exercise can help, so even if you can only fit in a short 15 minute workout into your day, it's better than doing nothing. 

Making a commitment to your personal health should be a priority and so should vehicle maintenance, especially with the winter weather soon to arrive! Be sure to stop by before your holiday travels so you can count on a safe trip, and schedule your next service appointment online. Our expert team of technicians are happy to help with any routine maintenance or scheduled maintenance needs you have at our Service Department in Westland. 

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 855-739-2023, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbrothersford.net

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Healthy Thanksgiving Side & Dessert Dishes to Try This Year

WESTLAND, Mich.,––The holidays are right around the corner, and you know what that means: junk food galore! From pies to mashed potatoes and gravy, your favorite home cooked delights aren't always the best for your body. It's great to indulge every now and then, but you can avoid the stomach aches and the need for a big nap after Thanksgiving dinner with a few healthy swaps. Here are a few of our favorite healthy Thanksgiving side & dessert dishes to try this year:

1. Honey Roasted Butternut Squash with Cranberries and Feta

This dish screams "fall" in a delicious sweet and savory way. 

2. Mashed Cauliflower with Parmesan and Chives

Pro-Tip: make this recipe a happy compromise with half potatoes & half cauliflower.

3. Cheesy Spinach Balls

These little green-filled guys can be used as an appetizer or a side dish.

4. Green Bean Mushroom Saute 

You can appease to picky eaters by doing half of this dish with mushrooms and half without.

5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts

This dish is full of good fiber! Feel free to get creative with the herbs and spices you use. 

6. Skinny Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars

You can't beat a healthier version of pumpkin pie and cheesecake in one easy dish! 

7. Healthy Apple Crisp 

Pro-Tip: Skip the regular vanilla ice cream and try Halo Top or another ice cream alternative.

8. Vanilla Orange Candied Cranberries

These little bites are full of sophisticated flavor that feels like you're eating candy.

9. Gluten Free No-Bake Salted Caramel Pumpkin Bars

The name is a mouthful, but this is a great option for those who don't do gluten!

10. Maple Vanilla Baked Pears

Most of us choose to do an apple or pumpkin based dessert, but how about giving pears a try?

We hope these healthy Thanksgiving side and dessert dishes give you the arsenal to eat better and feel better this year! We're all about healthy alternatives when it comes to fueling our bodies and fun ways to keep our bodies moving all year round, especially when we're preparing for our 5K Fun Run that happens in May. Stay tuned to our blog for some workout ideas you can use to combat the fatigue during the holiday season and for tips and tricks on how to take care of yourself and your car this winter. 

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 855-739-2023, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbrothersford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

Give Thanks to Your Car This November

WESTLAND, Mich.,––As you know, Thanksgiving is coming up quickly. November is the perfect time of year to reflect on your life and be thankful and grateful for what you have! There are plenty ways to practice this and a few ways you can do so with your car. If you're a proud Ford owner, here are a few ways you can be thankful for your mode of transportation and a few ways you can give thanks to your car this November.

1. Be Thankful for Owning a Ford!

Ford Motor Company has been a leader in providing reliable, stylish, and affordable vehicles to consumers for over 100 years. They've been completely family owned, just like us at North Brothers, for all of that time, too. Not to mention, Ford is one of the "Big 3" and is based out of Dearborn, Michigan - not far from Westland. Some, like ourselves, take pride in owning and driving an American vehicle!

2. Be Thankful for Your Freedom to Drive

As a car owner, you most likely have a driver's license! This means you have the tools and the freedom to drive wherever you like, whenever you like, and that's pretty awesome. For every other driver's sake, make sure you're practicing courteous and cautious driving behavior.

3. Be Thankful for Your Car's Safety Features

Ford's engineers are experienced, knowledgeable, and work hard in the initial building and testing phases to ensure consumer safety. As do other manufacturers, Ford includes many standard and optional safety features with new vehicles such as rear view camera, blind spot warning, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, etc.

4. Be Thankful for Your Ability to Pay for Gas, Insurance, Registration, Etc. 

Unless someone else is paying for all of this, give yourself a pat on the back! So many people in the United States aren't privileged enough to even own a car. Be thankful for your ability to cover the costs of registration, auto insurance, routine maintenance, gas, etc. These are the things that keep your car in "good standing" and without them, you might not have the freedom to use your car as you wish.

Ways You Can Give Thanks to Your Car this November 

In appreciation of your car providing you the freedom to go places, give thanks to it with a little TLC. How can you do this? Routine maintenance and a little clean up is what we recommend! Here are a few tasks you can complete throughout the month:

-Fill up your tires to the recommended PSI level
-Invest in some Winter tires and floor mats
-Have an oil change done
-Get an all-around inspection
-Have any outstanding repairs done
-Take it through the car wash and get it waxed
-Clean out the interior


We'd be happy to help you give thanks to your car this November with our routine maintenance services and auto body work. If you're in need of a new vehicle to be thankful for before Winter arrives, let us know and we'd be happy to hunt down the perfect Ford! Now through the end of November, active Military members and Veterans can get up $1,000 bonus cash on top of current offers for Ford F-150 or Ford Super Duty models. Shop our inventory online to see what's available at North Brothers in Westland, and stop by for a test drive. We look forward to seeing you!


North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

8 Easy Ways to Use up Your Leftover Halloween Candy

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Now that Halloween is over, the question most people ask is, "what do I do with all of this extra candy"? Fortunate for you, there are plenty of ways to recycle all of your leftover candy. Whether it's a twix bar or a package of skittles, there's a recipe for every type of sweet treat you have left behind. We've put together a list of 8 easy ways to use up your leftover Halloween candy.

1. Dessert Sauces

An easy way to use leftover chocolate candy is to melt it into a thick liquid. You can pour it over cakes, ice cream, or any other baked good you desire.

2. Hot Cinnamon Apple Sauce

Have some leftover cinnamon Red Hots? Stir them into a homemade applesauce recipe for a delicious and spicy twist!

3. Chocolate Bark

Chocolate bark is an easy treat to make for the holidays, a party, or just for fun. Sprinkle small candies and chopped candy bars over the chocolate before it melts.

4. Snack Mixes

Turn any trail mix, granola, or salty snack mix into a chocolate lover's dream with leftover candy bars. This creation will not disappoint!

5. Dairy Treats

Have you ever tried your favorite Halloween candy mixed in with a bowl of ice cream? Turn vanilla or chocolate ice cream into a special flavor with chopped up candy pieces. Or, blend the ice cream and candy together for a creamy milkshake!

6. Baked Goods

Of course, the more common thing to do with Halloween candy is whip up a recipe of your favorite brownies with an extra crunch. You can add pretty much any chocolate candy bar to whatever baked good you're craving, whether it be brownies, cookies, or cupcakes.

7. Sweet Breakfasts

Surprise your kids with a breakfast they'll never forget. Add your favorite leftover candy bars to your waffles and pancakes, or stuff them in some french toast for a savory treat!

8. Gift Ideas

What better than to make an arrangement out of all your leftover Halloween candy? It's a simple and perfect way to make a delicious gift for any occasion!

Your Halloween candy doesn't have to go to waste this year! Whether you are whipping up a batch of cookies or getting your sweets fix for breakfast, there are plenty of easy ways to use up your leftover Halloween candy. Now you won't have to worry about throwing out all of the sweets you have left behind. While you are waiting for one of these recipes to process and bake, take a look at our Year End Sales Event offers! If you aren't sure whether you should buy or lease your next vehicle, you can compare your options online with our helpful guide!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

7 Picture Books Your Kids Will Love During National Picture Book Month

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– November is National Picture Book Month! This is the perfect time to pick up a beautifully crafted book for you to read to your little ones. Picture books are extremely beneficial to young children, as they are proven to help strengthen vocabulary, engagement, and imagination at young ages. Whether your children need a good bedtime story or are learning how to read, check out these 7 picture books your kids will love during National Picture Book Month to bring their imaginations to life this November!

1. The Very Hungry Caterpillar

The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle, is one of the most famous picture books in the world. In fact, a new copy is sold somewhere in the world every 30 seconds! Follow the story of the very hungry caterpillar as he eats his way through the pages of the book on a fun-filled adventure you won't soon forget!

Where to Get It: Amazon has copies of the book on kindle, hardcover, and paperback!

2. The Giving Tree

Famous author Shel Silverstein's most well-known book, the Giving Tree, is a story of giving and taking and how important it is to remain thankful for what you have. It teaches the important lessons of humility and how a simple "thank you" can make a huge difference!

Where to Get It: You can find the Giving Tree at the Westland Library, or if you'd like to hear Shel Silverstein read it for yourself, check out the Giving Tree story on Youtube! 

3. Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type

What happens when three silly cows discover a typewriter? Grab a copy of Click, Clack, Moo: Cows That Type to find out! Doreen Cronin's hilarious tale is sure to be a hit with children of any age, showing them how fighting for what's right pays off in the long run.

Where to Get It: If you want to purchase Click, Clack, Moo: Cows that Type, you can get the picture book and its sequel (Giggle, Giggle, Quack), in great a bundle on Amazon for an awesome deal!

4. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom

If you're looking for a catchy way to teach your kids the alphabet, Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault is a great start! When A, B, and C try to meet at the top of the coconut tree, what starts as a good idea takes a crazy turn when the other 23 members of the alphabet try to join!

Where to Get It: You can find interactive versions of Chicka Chicka Boom Boom online on Speakaboos and Storyjumper! 

5. No, David! 

No, David! tells the story of David, a bad kid who doesn't listen to his parents. Read this to your kids and have them explain what David is doing wrong and how he can potentially hurt himself to teach them the importance of safety and listening to their parents. 

Where to Get It: You can order a copy of No, David! at the Westland Public Library and have it delivered to the library in 3-5 business days or less!

6. The Lady with the Alligator Purse

"Miss Lucy had a baby, his name was Tiny Tim, she put him in the bathtub to see if he could swim!" The Lady in the Alligator Purse is a must-have classic that every child should have the pleasure of discovering at least once. It's a fantastic read-along book that your children will want to share with their kids when they're older, too! 

Where to Get It: Visit Hatchette Book Group to purchase a copy, or trade in another book to get a copy of The Lady in the Alligator Purse for free! 

7. Where the Wild Things Are

We couldn't write this list without including one of the most iconic picture books of all time! Dive into Where the Wild Things Are to discover the story of Max's journey to the land of the Wild Things through beautiful illustrations and a simply unforgettable adventure that your kids will remember for the rest of their lives.

Where to Get It: If you can't find a copy of the picture book in any local bookstores, but still want to share the story of the Wild Things, you can purchase a digital copy online! 

Reading to your children at a young age is scientifically proven to help them achieve their potential. Get started with these 7 picture books your kids will love during National Picture Book Month! You won't regret sharing these wonderful stories with your children when they're older, and they'll definitely be thankful in the future, too! If you're in the market to purchase a new vehicle, make sure it's the perfect vehicle for your family by exploring our Ford Model Lineup! There, you can find information on specifications, trim levels, pricing, and more. If you can't find the specific model that you're looking for, let us know! We're happy to help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs, and if we don't have it on our lot, we can gladly order exactly what you're looking for right away!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+

Ford Surprises Houston Pastor with a New Expedition

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Houston Pastor Develron Walker is a man of the community. He's used his position as a leader of the Towers of Hope Church of God in Christ to help deliver supplies and food to people in need, drive local children to school, and help shuttle churchgoers to services. Unfortunately, in wake of Hurricane Harvey, his church and full-size SUV were destroyed, and since then, he's been unable to help his community in their time of need. After hearing the story of Pastor Walker, Ford surprised the Houston pastor with a new Expedition to help him deliver supplies and continue his noble cause. Read on to learn more about Pastor Walker's struggle and how Ford came to his aid in a time of need.

After Hurricane Harvey devastated Houston and its local communities, Pastor Walker applied for government assistance and a small business loan to help rebuild his church and was denied both - but that never stopped him from helping those in need. Once Ford heard the pastor's story, they requested to have Walker speak at their new Kentucky Truck Plant to share his plight with the employees so they could provide assistance to help his cause. After touring the plant and telling his story to the workers, the employees presented him with a new 2018 Ford Expedition to help him make a difference within his community. Watch the video below to see the reveal for yourself!

Ford chose the Expedition due to its ability to seat up to eight people and its ample cargo space to help the pastor in his daily endeavors. When the second and third rows of seating are folded, the Expedition can fit up to four 4x8-foot sheets of plywood that could be used to rebuild his church. The Expedition is also equipped with a Best-In-Class towing of up to 9,300 lbs., giving Walker and his staff the ability to move large quantities of supplies to those in need with little to no effort.

“Even while facing extremely tough circumstances, Pastor Walker has shown his relentless commitment to helping those in his community, and we hope the Expedition will help him go further with his ministry as they rebuild,” said Joe Hinrichs, Ford president, Global Operations, who presented the pastor with his new vehicle.

Recognizing the needs of Develron Walker and his community, Ford surprised the Houston pastor with a new Expedition. At North Brothers Ford, we want to provide the same amount of support that Ford has to local communities through fundraising, donations, and sponsorships. Check out our contributions to the Westland area on our Community Involvement page. If you know of a cause that you think we should support, let us know and we'll gladly look into it! Additionally, if you are interested in the 2018 Ford Expedition, check out our new vehicle inventory to get a closer look at this versatile and capable SUV. If you find a model you like, contact us and we'll set up a test drive for you so you can see for yourself what the Expedition can do for you!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net

Follow us on social media: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, YouTube and Google+