National Car Care Month: Tips for Checking Your Alignment and Suspension

WESTLAND, Mich., -- Between harsh winters and the drastic freeze/thaw cycles we experience heading into springtime, terrible roads are an unfortunate yet ever-present part of life in the Mitten State. Potholes the size of Godzilla's foot! Crevasses with their own zip codes! Okay, maybe we're being a bit dramatic, but its bad this time of year, and the thing that suffers the most is your alignment and suspension.

This National Car Care Month, North Brothers Ford wants to share with you some tips for checking your alignment and suspension to make sure your vehicle is running at its best.

ALIGNMENT

Over time, things like potholes, dirt/uneven roads, and regular driving can take a toll on your vehicle's wheel alignment. However, road conditions get particularly nasty here during the winter here in Michigan, so it's extremely important that you check up on your alignment when Mother Nature finally decides to let up for the season.

When your wheels aren't properly aligned, your car has to work harder to move thus causing its performance to suffer. Spring alignment care is important because it maximizes tire life, performance, and fuel efficiency. Scheduling an alignment check at North Brothers Ford is quick and easy, and here are some signs for you to look out for in the meantime:

• Your car pulls to one side
• Vibrations in the steering wheel
• Visible uneven tire tread wear
• Squealing tires
• Your steering wheel turns while traveling straight

SUSPENSION

Your vehicle's suspension is responsible for controlling the bounce and impacts of certain rough road conditions and helps to keep the tires in contact with the road. It also helps to provide consistent handling, control rolling and swaying, encourages even tire and brake wear, and contributes to overall passenger comfort. Spring suspension care is especially important after experiencing treacherous road conditions during the winter (and let's be honest, even well into spring). You can easily schedule a suspension check-up at North Brothers Ford, should you notice any of the following warning signs:

• Hard steering
• Heavy tipping feeling when turning
• Nose-dive stops
• Rough ride
• Excessive bounce
• Low riding height of the vehicle

Michigan roads wreak havoc on your alignment and suspension, but North Brothers Ford has your back with tips to keep them regularly checked and in top working condition. If you ever need any extra help, schedule a service appointment with us and we'll be happy to take a look and do whatever needs to be done.

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: www.northbros.com

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5 Ways to Make a Difference this Earth Day - April 22nd

WESTLAND, Mich. -- On April, 22nd we celebrate Earth Day. A global event in which over 1 billion people and 192 countries participate, Earth Day is when we give back to the planet for everything it gives us, as well as raise awareness about environmental issues. Everyone celebrates Earth Day differently, and even the smallest thing can make a huge difference, but the main idea is the same: honor Mother Earth.

From us at North Brothers Ford, here are some ways you can make a difference this Earth Day.

1. DITCH PLASTIC, GO REUSABLE

Every year, the world uses around 500 billion plastic bags, many of which end up in our rivers, lakes, and oceans. A simple way you can help to reduce this number is to get a reusable shopping bag. Most major supermarket chains offer their own at the checkout for as little as $1.00, which is a small price to pay if it means helping to preserve our planet's water, including our beloved Great Lakes. On top of that, reusable shopping bags are exceptionally sturdy, not to mention spacious. Not only will you be helping to reduce waste, but you also won't have to deal with your groceries plummeting to the ground through the bottom of a flimsy plastic bag.

2. GO VEGETARIAN

The meat industry is responsible for about 20% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. Greenhouse gases absorb and emit radiant energy within the infrared thermal range, causing the greenhouse gas effect otherwise known as "global warming." Now to a Michigander, a rise in temperatures isn't exactly unwelcome. However, what if we told you that global warming not only warms our planet's surface to a temperature above what it would be without its atmosphere but has also been proven to be linked to harsher and longer winters? Because a lot more goes into winter than just temperature. Snowfall depends on the amount of moisture in the atmosphere. Due to the effects of climate change melting the planet's gargantuan arctic glaciers, all of that formerly frozen water evaporates into the atmosphere, thus dramatically increasing moisture levels and contributing to beefier snowstorms. On top of that, warmer temperatures in the Arctic affect the jet stream, which in turn affects how long severely cold or warm temperatures hang around. Either way, it's not a good thing at all.

Now the good news is you don't have to go full veg if you don't want to, because going meat-free just once a week (popularly known as Meatless Mondays) can make a real difference. For example, if you gave up meat one day a week over the course of one year, the environmental effect is equivalent to that of taking your car off the road for 320 miles. Switching to a plant-based diet also does a lot to reduce our use of energy, water, and gas.

3. GREEN UP YOUR RIDE

According to the EPA, the average passenger vehicle lets off 5.2 metric tons of carbon dioxide every year, making the transportation sector responsible for 27% of America's greenhouse gas emissions. One way to help cut this down is to cut down on car usage whenever possible, and simply walk or ride a bike. If everyone did this just once every two weeks, billions of gallons of gasoline would be conserved. On top of that, every mile pedaled or walked keeps about one pound of CO2 out of the air we breathe.

Of course, not everyone's day-to-day can accommodate giving up regularly giving up cars. Most major auto companies including Ford, however, offer hybrid options like the 2018 Fusion Hybrid, and they do a heck of a lot of good. Hybrid models of mid-sized sedans, mid-sized and full-sized SUVs reduce smog-producing gas emissions 15%, 19%, and 21%, respectively than conventional vehicles. Let's also not forget the crazy gas mileage hybrids provide, with the 2018 Fusion Hybrid offering 43 city/41 highway. Not only does this do a lot of good for the planet, but also for your wallet.

4. GO PAPERLESS AND RECYCLE

The average American uses about 728 pounds of paper every year, which is a ton of trees being cut down. Deforestation is a threat to not only the environment but to our survival. The rainforests of South America produce 20% of the planet's oxygen, and forests in general help to keep greenhouse gases under control since they absorb carbon dioxide in order to produce oxygen. As they continue to disappear and be replaced by industries like pulp and paper, we can expect our climate change issue to get even worse, on top of the threat of running out of oxygen to sustain life.

Going paperless is a simple yet highly impactful way you can make a difference for the better. Most financial institutions nowadays offer a paperless billing option to send your account statements and other important documents to your inbox rather than your mailbox. For paper things that you can't avoid, like junk mail, resolve to throw it in the recycle bin rather than the trash can. The more paper we can reuse, the fewer trees that need to be cut down to make more. If the US alone cut its paper consumption by just 10%, it would reduce the same amount of greenhouse gases as taking 280,000 cars off the road.

5. PERFORM A HOME ENERGY AUDIT

Drafty windows or an old refrigerator are more than just annoying, they're energy wasters, which in turn wastes resources as well as tons of your money every year. The Department of Energy published a guide that shows you how to perform a DIY energy audit and how to make real changes that can significantly impact your energy consumption and monthly bills for the better.

Check out the guide at Energy.gov

This Earth Day, North Brothers Ford asks you to join us in taking steps to preserve the planet we call home. Here we give you small but extremely impactful ways you can make a difference, but the real key is to spread the word, get as many people as you can to live a more green lifestyle. Considering the immense natural beauty we enjoy just here in Michigan, don't you want to keep it that way?

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: www.northbros.com

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

Have Your Oil and Important Fluids Checked for National Car Care Month

WESTLAND, Mich. -- The fluids that run through your vehicle, while responsible for specific things, all serve a common purpose of improving your vehicle's function, performance, and efficiency. Making sure that they're regularly checked, flushed, topped off, and changed is an essential part of seasonal maintenance that will help extend the life of your car. Below, we've listed some important fluids that should be checked on a routine basis, and the start of spring is an ideal time to do so. If you're planning on spending a lot of time on the road come the warmer months, it's even more important to schedule a service appointment to stay safe and make sure your car is running at its best.

During National Car Care Month, North Brothers Ford wants to remind you to have your oil and important fluids checked.

WASHER FLUID

Working in tandem with your wiper blades, washer fluid allows you clear visibility through your windshield, helping to wash away precipitation residue and debris. Whether or not your vehicle has an indicator light alerting you to low levels of washer fluid, it's important to get in the habit of checking it yourself so you always have a way to clear the windshield and have an unhindered view of the road ahead while driving. The opening to your vehicle's washer fluid tank can be found under the hood, indicated by a picture of a windshield on the cap. Most reservoirs will accept a full gallon of washer fluid when empty, though make sure to pour slowly and evenly whether you're topping off or filling up.

When purchasing washer fluid, make sure you're getting a pre-diluted solution, otherwise, you risk it freezing in the tank. The next thing to pay attention to is temperature threshold, indicated on the label on the bottle, which tells you if the washer fluid will handle the temperatures you'll be driving in. If you're unsure about refilling your vehicle's washer fluid yourself, we'll happily top it off for you with your next oil change!

OIL CHANGE

Oil is an extremely important component of a well-running vehicle, as it lubricates the moving parts of your engine, helps to reduce heat caused by friction, keeps the engine clean, and protects it against wear. Routinely having your oil changed can help you avoid expensive damage in the long-run, as well as enhance the overall longevity of your car. Routine oil changes should be done every 3,000-5,000 miles, or sometimes longer depending on your driving habits and if your vehicle uses synthetic oil. If you're not sure, always consult your owner's manual.

However, if you have any upcoming road trips or other spring and summer activities that will put you on the road more often, stop in for an oil change to ensure your vehicle can handle it and that your engine runs smoothly.

COOLANT

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is responsible for controlling the temperature of various engine components. It serves a dual purpose of keeping the radiators in your vehicle from freezing or overheating throughout the year. When should you get it changed? We recommend replacing your coolant every two years or 24,000 miles. However, as always, check your owner's manual for the specific needs of your make and model.

If you suspect that your engine may be overheating or detect a sweet smell while driving that might indicate a coolant leak, let us know and our service experts will gladly check it for you and top it off if needed. With warmer temperatures on the way, spring is the perfect time to check your coolant fluid checked to prevent overheating.

Your washer fluid, oil, and coolant are all important fluids you should have checked this National Car Care Month. All three fluids serve crucial purposes that are essential to a well-running vehicle and work together to ensure your safety as well as that of your investment. To perform their duties, however, they need your help. If you're uncomfortable checking or changing these fluids yourself, the friendly team at North Brothers Ford will gladly do it for you! Schedule an appointment today!

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: www.northbros.com

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

National Car Care Month - Tips for Taking Care of Your Engine

WESTLAND, Mich.,––Owning a car comes with many costs, and unfortunately, some of those costs can be unexpected. BUT, that doesn't mean you can't take actions to prevent some of these unexpected service costs. We're talking routine maintenance! Last week we discussed what you can do to maintain your tires, but this week we're going to provide you some tips for taking care of your engine - the most important part of your vehicle! Because there are many components that make up the engine, like spark plugs, pistons, crankshafts, etc., it can seem complicated. Maintaining the engine, however, is relatively simple.

ENGINE MAINTENANCE TIPS

Let's begin with oil changes. The #1 best thing you can do to keep your engine running smoothly is to get regular oil changes. While they're needed much more frequently that belt replacements, or other routine maintenance services, they're relatively inexpensive and do a world of good for your engine. What exactly does your oil do for your engine?

• It removes heat from the engine
• It absorbs debris to protect the engine
• It lubricates the moving parts

Ignoring oil changes can lead to dark, gritty oil that can not only hurt your car's performance but put your engine at risk for overheating or premature wear. By not changing your oil frequently enough, you'll also build up engine sludge which isn't something that can be cleaned or removed without taking the engine apart (a very costly service). So, just be sure to keep a routine of getting an oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles. If you forget when you last had an oil change, you can easily check the dipstick to see how it's doing. Alternatively, you can bring it in to our Service Center in Westland to have it inspected.

Another service you can have completed with your oil changes that will help keep your engine clean is filter replacements! You should have an oil filter replacement at every service and have your air filter inspected. Why the oil filter at EVERY service? It filters the oil and prevents debris from getting into it! It also allows oil to flow freely to your engine, so with a blocked-up filter, you could risk engine failure or decreased fuel economy.

Depending on the condition of the road or air that you're traveling through, your air filter might need to be replaced at every oil change, or it might. It should, however, be inspected at each oil change to make sure it's able to handle the air. Why is this important? Your engine requires air to run! The air intake mixes it with fuel to make your car go, so ensuring your car is able to take in air the way it needs to is essential to a well running vehicle.

Lastly, your coolant. This is a fluid, otherwise known as antifreeze that rotates through your radiator hoses and cools your engine. If your engine were to overheat, it would warp and not function properly, so coolant and your radiator hoses are a powerful thing. All you have to do is keep an eye on the level of your coolant, and have it changed or "flushed"every 40,000 miles. If you happen to see a decrease, or even a spot of bright colors as a puddle underneath your vehicle, it's time to have it checked out right away! The techs at North Brothers will take a look at your radiator for any cracks or damage and make sure it's completely safe to be back on the road before you leave our dealership.

If you're due for an oil and filter change, air filter replacement, or coolant inspection, the team at North Brothers is here to help! We want to assist in maintaining your engine during National Car Care Month and keep your car running well. You can find more tips and tricks for taking care of your vehicle on our website and our blog. Stop by our dealership on Ford Road for any auto service you need and we'd be happy to help. You can also schedule an appointment to save time!


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: www.northbros.com

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

Tips for Cleaning and Organizing Your Garage This Spring

WESTLAND, Mich.,––It's spring! It's hard to think about this season without thinking about cleaning. Spring cleaning is something that, unfortunately, has to be done for some, especially if it's a task that's been put off all winter long. When we finally see the last of the snow around Metro Detroit, it'll be time to clear the dust and do some organization. If your garage is on your list, we've got some ideas that might help! Check out these tips for cleaning and organizing your garage this spring.

DIY Trash Bags on a Roll

This will help you get boxes off the floor and can be used with tape and other items you might have that can be stored on a roll. 

Recycled Window Box Planter Storage 

If you have any old planters lying around, give them a good wipe down and hang them on the wall for storage of small items like paint cans, car cleaning supplies, or even garden tools.

Extension Cord Holder

Keep those long and loose extension cords in order with this little trick. All you'll need is a simple chain and hook for the wall. 

Magnet Strip for Scissors & Other Tools 

This image is for craft room storage, but you can use the same concept for tools other than scissors, as long as they're metal! 

Organizing Sports Balls

You can use this easy idea along the wall, or off the floor in a corner of your garage! All you need is some wood and bungee cords. 

Tire Rack with 2x4 Boards

If you happen to store your winter tires in your garage, this is a great way to keep them out of the way. You just need some 2x4 boards and time to put it all together.

DIY Garden Tool Storage

This is a really easy way to store anything with a long handle. Rakes, hoes, and shovels, as well as brooms, mops, and other cleaning tools can be stored neatly in a little piece of PVC! 

We hope this tips help give you some ideas when it comes to cleaning and organizing your garage this spring! If you're in search of a new car to fill up the new space in your garage after you've cleaned it out, we can help with that, too. We recommend stopping by our dealership to check out the 2018 Ford EcoSport - a compact and stylish crossover, the 2018 Ford Flex - perfect for family trips in the summer, or the 2018 Ford F-150 - a classic light-duty truck ready to take on any job. We know how important it is to buy or lease a truck that's not only right for your budget, but that's right for your needs. Our wonderful staff of salespersons in Westland is here to help! 

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: www.northbros.com

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

10 Ways to Relieve Stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Sometimes we all just need to take a step back and relax. It's good for you and takes less time than you think. Stress is measured as physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. It lives inside each and every one of us in many different ways, whether it's work related, an issue with a relationship, or something else causing your brain to go wild. The amount of American's that experience stress has increased over the past few years, making it increasingly important for people to find new ways to cope with lifestyle changes and issues affecting them day after day. We want to ensure that you take the time you need to alleviate some of the pressure you are feeling. Try one of these 10 ways to relieve stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th:

1. Exercise Regularly
Performing daily exercise is an easy and effective way to combat stress, especially after a long day of work. Putting your body through physical stress can actually take away some of your mental stress. Find an activity that you enjoy, such as walking, running, dancing, or even yoga. This will be a great way for you to take a load off!

2. Sleep Longer and Better
A lack of sleep can really cause a significant amount of stress on your body. When thoughts keep whirling through our head at night, it's harder to fall asleep. Relax before bed time to ensure you can enjoy a good night's rest. Avoid using your smart phone device, drinking caffeine, and performing demanding work before bed time. This will keep your brain calm and help you fall asleep faster!

3. Practice Deep Breathing
Stress on your brain ignites your sympathetic nervous system, sending your body into "fight-or-flight" mode. This releases stress hormones, getting you all worked up inside. Practicing deep breathing exercises will activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the relaxation response. Focus on the awareness of your breath to slow it down and make it deeper.

4. Light a Candle
Burn a scented candle or use essential oils to calm your body and reduce any feelings of stress and anxiety. There are certain scents that have been known to be especially soothing. These include lavender, rose, vetiver, bergamot, roman chamomile, neroli, frankincense, sandalwood, ylang ylang, orange, and geranium.

5. Listen to Music
Music works as a helpful tool in treating many different things. It can have a very relaxing effect on the body and helps us manage our stress levels. Whether you prefer to listen to your favorite tunes or you rely on soothing sounds, music is a great stress reliever! Turn it on, crank it up, and jam to some music that'll take your mind away.

6. Spend Time With Your Pet
Studies show that owning a pet, specifically a dog, reduces your levels of stress and improves your mood. Interacting with pets along with cuddling, can spark a positive mood and make you feel much better. Owning a pet gives you a sense of purpose, keeps you active, and provides a companion.

7. Learn to Say No
A lot of stress can be caused by having too much to do in too little of time. We tend to take on more responsibility than we can handle, causing our minds to lose control. Although you may want to take on every task, our bodies weren't meant to perform too much work. Juggle your responsibilities better by only taking on enough for your body to handle. Sometimes it's okay to just say no!

8. Take a Walk
Taking a quiet, meditative stroll, will work wonders in terms of stress relief. Even a simple walk around the block will free our minds and keep us calm. The outdoors are a great place to take our mind off everything and just enjoy the atmosphere. Don't rush, just take the time to relax and stroll.

9. Chew Some Gum
This is a relatively effective method for quick stress relief. Studies show that people who chew gum have lower stress and a greater sense of well-being. Gum chewing relaxes people and promotes blood flow to the brain. So, throw in a piece if you're starting to feel overwhelmed!

10. Laugh It Out
Laughing is a great mood booster and anxiety reliever. It brings more oxygen into your body, stimulates and relieves your stress response, and relieves tension in your muscles, ultimately relaxing your body. Watch a funny show or listen to a comedian for a good laugh. It's great for your health all the way around!

There are many ways to combat the stress you're feeling. Start with something simple and start incorporating these stress relief activities into your daily routine. The less stressed you feel, the happier and more productive you'll be down the road. Try one of these 10 ways to relieve stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th. You'll be thankful you did! Another great way to take a load off your shoulders is making sure you vehicle is up to speed on spring car care. Schedule an appointment with our service team to ensure your ride is ready for the rainy weather this season!

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: www.northbros.com

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

National Car Care Month - Tires

WESTLAND, Mich.–– During National Car Care Month, it's the perfect time to get your tires serviced so that you're ready to hit the road this spring. Tire care is one of the most important parts of owning a vehicle, as tires are the safety buffer between you and the road. It's crucial that your vehicle has adequate tire tread, properly rotated tires, and accurate tire inflation all year round. Ensure that your ride can handle the wet road conditions this season will bring by reading these tips:


1. Tire Rotations
It is recommended that your tires are rotated every 3,000-7,000 miles, or every other oil change. Tires can wear unevenly, which is why it's critical to rotate them every so often to ensure they receive even wear across all four tires.

2. Tire Tread
Your tires' tread is what allows your vehicle to grip the road properly. Low tire tread puts you at risk for hydroplaning when the road is wet or losing traction during other conditions. It can also increase your stopping distance, putting you at larger risk of an accident. Check your tire tread using the penny method or have our team of experts inspect them for you!

3. Tire Pressure
The temp outside can directly effect the air pressure in your tires. By maintaining your car's proper tire pressure, you will experience improved fuel economy, less tire issues, and a much smoother ride. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended PSI to make sure your tires match that amount. If they don't, it's time for them to be filled.

4. New Tires
Did you put on snow tires for the winter season? It's time to take them off! It's best to change back to all-season tires this spring. Winter tires are only built to handle 45 degrees Fahrenheit and under. If your tire tread is worn down, it's time for you to get a new set! We recommend replacing all four tires at the same time. Schedule an appointment with our service team and we'll get your vehicle into a new set of wheels in no time!


Rough winter weather can impact your vehicle's tires tremendously. And spring weather isn't much safer with slippery road conditions. By staying up to date with routine tire maintenance, you can rest assure that your ride will be effective in gripping the road this season. Now's the time to get your car's tires up to speed during National Car Care Month.

Be sure to schedule an appointment online with our service team for any tire rotations, added tire pressure, or even a brand new set of tires. We are here to help you remain safe behind the wheel of a reliable ride this spring! Check out our spring car care page for more tips on tire maintenance as well as alignment care, fluid care, wiper blade care, and spring cleaning.


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: www.northbros.com

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