How to Protect Your Vehicle from Flood Damage

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Every year, vehicles become damaged from severe storms and hurricanes throughout the United States. And now that spring is here, excessive rain is sure to follow. It's important to know how to protect your vehicle from flood damage in the event of high flood waters. If you aren't careful when driving through flooded areas, your water can become susceptible to water damage, leaving you with a lofty auto service bill. Cover your bases with this how-to guide:


1. Avoid Flooded Areas & Take a Different Route
If you are aware of flooded areas along your normal route, check and see if there is a different road that you can take that'll get you to your destination. Even if takes a little bit longer, it's worth it to protect your ride from high waters.

2. Stop & Assess Floods Before Driving Through
You can never be too sure of the depth of the water or the state of the road underneath. It's best if you try and gauge the depth and possible currents to ensure your vehicle doesn't become flooded or swept away! The rule of thumb is to never drive through water that is more than six-inches deep.

3. Be Careful When Passing Other Cars
Avoid following and crossing paths with other drivers that could cause you to stray off your intended path. Large vehicles are extremely hazardous because they can create waves that push water higher than expected.

4. Lower Your Speed
If you decide to drive through high water, it is recommended that you enter at 1-2 mph. Any faster and your car might hydroplane, causing you to lose control.

5. Keep Revving Your Engine
Once you're in the water, try and keep your car's revs up. This will prevent water from being sucked back into the exhaust. Accelerating up to 4-5 mph will create a small wave that will protect your car's engine from the high water.

6. Try Not to Stall Out
When trying to clear a flooded area of the road, the most important thing to do is prevent your vehicle from stalling. In the event that your car does stall, try and start your car right away. The longer you wait, the further the water will creep up your exhaust.

7. Dry Your Brakes
Even if you make it safely through the flooded water, you're not done yet. It's crucial to dry your brakes out for them to work properly. For the next few miles, drive slowly and regularly apply the brakes to heat them up and allow the water to evaporate.


Although it is possible to drive through a little bit of flooded water, we highly recommend that you avoid driving through it as a whole. Ensuring that your ride performs its best at all times is our goal. Make sure you know how to protect your vehicle from flood damage by following our guide! In the event that your car runs into issues from flooded water, bring it in immediately to our service department. We will fix any major issues you have and get your ride back to you in no time! You can schedule an appointment online with our service team. Feel free to contact us with any question you have! Stay safe this rainy spring 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

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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

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

How Your Brakes Work & Brake Maintenance Tips

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– The most important safety components in your vehicle are your brakes. Your brakes can be the difference between you and a collision on the road. Keeping them properly maintained and cared for is extremely vital to your safety. Learn how your brakes work & brake maintenance tips to keep you and your passengers safe while on the road. Find out what makes this crucial component work and what you can do to extend the life of your brakes today!

How Brakes Work

When you're driving on the road, your vehicle uses kinetic energy, or energy in motion, to help move it along at quick speeds. Your brakes work to eliminate that kinetic energy by using friction, which changes the kinetic energy to heat. Putting your foot on your brake pedal transmits hydraulic fluid through a series of pipes into a variety of cylinders next to the brakes on your wheels. This system multiplies the force you apply on your brakes to cause your vehicle to slow to a stop. 

Most vehicles consist of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels (you can find out what types of brakes your vehicles have by consulting your owner's manual). Disc brakes, located on your front wheels, are made up of brake discs, calipers, and pads. When you press down on your brake pedal, the hydraulic fluid in your brakes cause your caliper to press your brake pad against your brake's disc. This creates friction, which allows your vehicle to slow down. Drum brakes, which are equipped on your back wheels, consist of a brake drum and brake shoes. When you press down on your brake pedal, the brake shoes push against the surface of your brake drums, slowing your back wheels to a stop.

Brake Maintenance Tips

Want to make sure your brakes last as long as possible? Use a few of our tips below to increase your safety on the road:

• Keep a consistent maintenance schedule: You should have your brakes inspected every 12,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to. If you aren't sure when you last had your brakes inspected, schedule an appointment with us to have them looked at right away!
• Watch your speeds: Driving at high speeds increases the kinetic energy of your vehicle, which means braking at higher speeds can generate more heat on your brake pads. Too much heat can wear your brake pads down at a very fast rate, so make sure to watch your speeds on the road!
• Carry less: If you tend to travel with a lot in your vehicle, that additional weight can generate more friction when you brake, which can wear your brake's components down at a much faster rate than normal. Carry less when you drive to prevent this from happening!
• Practice coasting: Working hand in hand with watching your speed, coasting can help to generate less kinetic energy when you eventually have to brake, which will extend the life of your brakes. Try to coast more so that your brakes last longer!
• Pay attention to signs of wear: Your brakes are equipped with a variety of safety measures and components to inform you when certain parts are in need of repair. Make sure you know how to spot the signs of brake wear so you know when to get your brakes looked at!

At North Brothers Ford, your safety is our top priority. We want you and your passengers to be the safest they can be on the on the road, no matter how short or long your drive may be. Knowing how your brakes work and brake maintenance tips can make the difference between you and an accident. If you want to remain proactive to prevent any damage to your brakes, read up on our brake service advice to find out more information about brake care. Need your brakes looked at? Schedule a brake inspection with us and use our service specials and coupons to save money on your next service!

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+

Check Your Vehicle Before Your Next Vacation

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Vacations are full of fun and excitement, whether you're traveling across the Mitten or checking out a new state. However, one of the most important steps you can take before you embark on your journey is making sure your vehicle is able to handle the drive. While you may be worrying about packing, you may forget about how big of a difference a properly maintained vehicle makes. Make sure you know how to check on your vehicle before your next vacation to avoid costly repairs or maintenance!

Brakes

Your brakes are the number one line of defense between you and the vehicle in front of you. They are the most important safety component in your vehicle and should be treated as such! If your brakes take longer to slow down your vehicle than they used to, pull your vehicle to the left or right when you brake, or emit a screeching or grinding noise when you slow down, you may need to have them looked at. Knowing how to spot the signs of brake wear will help extend the life of your brakes and keep you ahead of the curve with maintenance. Repaired or replaced brakes can make all the difference in the world when you're on the road! 

Tires

Make sure your tires are able to handle the road by giving them a quick inspection! Check the tread on your tires to make sure they're able to take on the road for a long period of time. The tread, or grooves on your tires, help your vehicle to grip the road. Whether you're on concrete or dirt, they keep your vehicle stable. To check the tread level, place a penny in between the main groove of your tire with Abraham Lincoln's head facing down. If you can still see Lincoln's head when you put it between the groove, this means your tread is worn and you need new tires. If not, you've got enough tread to grip the road and you're ready for a road trip!

Headlights

Driving with clear, strong headlights can make all the difference in the world when the sun goes down! With foggy and dim headlights, your visibility is reduced and it'll expose you and your passengers to a variety of hazards. Test your headlights a few nights before your road trip, making sure that both your regular and "bright" lights provide you with enough visibility. If you're having trouble seeing while on the road, schedule an appointment with us and we'll equip your vehicle with a fresh new pair of headlights in no time!

Engine Fluids

Your engine requires a lot of components to ensure you're able to drive safely and efficiently on the road. Several fluids help to regulate the temperature of your engine, improve visibility on the road, and lubricate your engine's components. Thankfully, they're all very easy to check and replace!

• Oil: Lubricating your engine's components, your oil plays an extremely important role in ensuring your engine runs smoothly. To check your oil level, first locate the dipstick (the plastic ring sticking out of your engine) and remove it from your engine. Next, clean it off and reinsert the dipstick into the engine, removing it again. Your dipstick will have full and empty labels on it, indicating whether or not your oil needs to be replaced.
• Coolant: Your engine's coolant, or antifreeze, regulates the temperature of your engine, preventing it from overheating and causing permanent damage to its components. To check your engine coolant, look for the large, translucent plastic container of colored liquid. The side of the container, similar to the dipstick, has full and empty labels on it to indicate whether or not your coolant will need replacing.
• Wiper Fluid: Under the hood, you can also find and replace your wiper fluid with ease! A full container of wiper fluid will make a big difference when you need to clean any dirt or grime off your windshield, increasing visibility. Find the cylindrical container of blue liquid and look for its labels to find out whether or not you need more fluid. 

Making sure that each and every one of these components is up to speed before you embark on your journey will make a huge difference when you're on the road. Make sure to check your vehicle before your next vacation so you don't end up sidelined on the freeway. If, however, you end up on the side of the road, make sure you know what to do if your vehicle breaks down to remain prepared for any situation. Before you leave, get your vehicle inspected by our Service Staff if you aren't sure whether or not you're good to go for your trip. Your vehicle will be ready to hit the road with a little routine maintenance!

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+

Spot the Signs of Brake Wear

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Your brakes are some of the most important components on your vehicle. Keeping your brakes in peak condition is the best way to keep safe on the road. Without properly maintained brakes, you'll have trouble slowing down and can damage important components of your vehicle. While you may not think about them too often, knowing how to spot the signs of brake wear will save you costly repairs in the future and will keep you safe while you drive.

Braking Takes Longer than Normal

One of the easiest ways to find out whether or not your brakes need replacing is by testing the brakes yourself. If you're noticing that it's taking longer to slow down than it used to, you may be experiencing brake fade. Brake fade is most common when drivers brake for extended periods of time, causing the pads to make repeated contact with the rotors for long periods of time, increasing friction and wearing down their components. Driving in hilly areas and repeatedly braking over the course of your drive can negatively impact your vehicle. Following our brake service advice can extend the life of your brake pads and make all the difference in the world on the road!

Screeching Sound While You Brake

If you hear a loud screeching sound when you brake, it may be time to have your brakes looked at. The piece causing the noise, called an indicator, is used to inform you when your brakes have been worn down so that know it's time to get them checked out. Typically, this screeching occurs when your brake pads need replacing. Your brake pads are one of the most important components of your brakes, as they're the main line of defense when it comes to braking on the road. Schedule an appointment with us to have your brake pads looked at if you hear any screeching while you brake!

Grinding Sounds While Braking

Do you hear a louder grinding sound whenever you apply the brakes? This sound can happen when your brakes' calipers and discs rub together, causing the components to warp, or "score", creating an uneven surface. With uneven surfaces on your brakes, you're unable to effectively slow down, which can lead to further vehicle damage and costly repairs. Pay attention to the signs of rotor repair to determine whether or not your vehicle will require additional maintenance!

Vibrating Brake Pedal

If your brake pedal vibrates as you apply pressure to it, it could mean that your vehicle needs realignment or rotor replacement. Rotors can become warped under conditions of extreme heat and pressure. This can occur when you brake for long periods of time, and can usually occur when drivers excessively brake driving downhill. You feel a vibration on the brake pedal because the brakes are unable to grip the road efficiently. If you feel your brake pedals beginning to vibrate, be sure to give your vehicle's brakes time to cool down and get them inspected if you're worried!

Vehicle Turns While Braking

If your vehicle forces or pulls you to the left or right while you brake, it can mean that your brake linings have been unevenly worn or that your brake fluid may need flushing and replacing. Uneven brake linings can cause one brake pad to work less effectively than the other, causing an awkward distribution of weight, which can make the vehicle turn on its own. Brake fluid, on the other hand, keeps the components of your brakes lubricated. Over time, brake fluid can run low, which can cause an uneven distribution of fluid to brake pads and make the vehicle pull in a specific direction. If you're noticing your vehicle turn while you brake, contact us right away and we'll happily help you get your brakes back up to speed!

It never hurts to have your brakes looked at, especially if they're screeching, grinding, vibrating, or causing your vehicle to turn. If you can spot the signs of brake wear, you'll be able to remain ahead of the curve in the event that you need your brakes repaired or replaced. For the rest of the month of August, we're offering free brake inspections, so if you're worried about the status of your brakes, have our knowledgable Service Staff take a look at them, free of charge! We also offer brake repair coupons if you do need your brakes repaired or replaced to help you save some money. For more advice on brake maintenance, take a look at our brake service advice page for a quick walkthrough on preventative maintenance for your brakes!

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+

Winter Car Care Tips & Vehicle Maintenance at North Brothers Ford

WESTLAND, Mich., –– Winter can be the hardest season on your vehicle. Low temperatures, snow, ice, and road issues are some of the roughest obstacles you'll have to face this time of year. These factors can all take a serious toll on your vehicle in terms of safety and performance. You, and the team at North Bros, can take the necessary steps to making sure your car is good to go for the rest of the season! 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, replacing, and maintaining the components below, you can keep your vehicle in great shape through the winter season and beyond.

Click the links below for Our Winter Car Care Tips on: 

• Tires: When the roads get slick don’t risk the danger of winter weather by keeping your all-season tires on. Did you know that installing winter tires can help you stay safe in more than just snow and ice? You should also check your tires' inflation level, tread wear, and tread depth to make sure they can get you through the season with enough grip for the cold roads! Learn more about the importance of these tasks by clicking the link. 
• Batteries: The last thing you want to worry about this winter is a vehicle that won’t start. Check out our winter battery care page to read more about how to cold weather affects your car's battery, see signs your battery might be having issues, and learn why you should have it professionally inspected this season at North Brothers Ford! 
• Brakes: Your brakes are one of the most important vehicle components when it comes to winter vehicle maintenance. From brake inspections, repairs, and replacements, click to learn more about how you can make sure your brakes are prepared for winter weather. Plus, see signs that your brakes aren't up to par for this winter season. 
• Oil Change: Oil Changes are one of the simplest and most important routine services you can do for your vehicle, but unfortunately they are often skipped. Worn oil won't be able to provide the proper protection for your engine and will have a hard time moving through your engine in the cold weather. Regular oil changes will help extended the life of your vehicle and can help you avoid costly repairs. Learn more by clicking the link to see our page. 
• Wiper Blades: Snow, sleet, and leftover ice often cause vision problems when you hit the road in the winter. If you're having problems clearing your view, or if your wiper blades are leaving streaks that make it hard to see, it might be time for a new pair. These parts should be replaced about every 6 months, but the weather can take a toll on them, so pay attention and learn more about the signs you need to replace them by clicking the link above. 

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 coldest Michigan months without the worry of whether your vehicle is prepared to handle the harsh weather. Our Certified Service Department 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 keep your car running with our winter car care tips and vehicle maintenance.

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+

How to Check Your Brakes During Brake Safety Awareness Month

WESTLAND, Mich.––This August is dedicated to brake safety. While they may not always be on your routine maintenance schedule, they should be! Your brakes may only need to be replaced every once and a while, depending on your driving style and frequency of use, but they can be easily inspected to ensure your safety on the road. There are also signs you can look out for in the case your brakes have a problem or need replacing. Below we'll tell you how to check your brakes during Brake Safety Awareness Month because we care about your safety on the road!

First off, let's go over how brakes work! Although it may seem simple, it's a system made of many parts and has the big job of stopping or slowing down your moving car. Your brakes use hydraulic pressure so a simple press of your brake pedal can be transferred into pressure on the brake rotors. Check out the video below for a visual example of brakes in action.

Now we'll go over some signs you may be having brake issues:

-You hear squealing or grinding while braking. If you hear grinding, don't wait any longer for a service appointment because your brakes are too worn and won't be able to effectively stop the car. A squealing noise may not need immediate service, but will need attention soon. Your brakes are designed to make that noise to indicate that the pads need changing.

-Your brakes feel soft when you press. Are your brakes taking more pressure to stop? Or does the brake feel 'soft' or 'spongy'? This could mean your brake fluid needs replacing. You'll want to get your car into our Service Center as soon as possible!

-Your dashboard brake warning light is on. Even if you don't feel or hear anything strange when applying your brakes, you'll still need to have them inspected. The sensor on your brake detected something in order to make the light turn on. Check out our new Dashboard Warning Light Guide for a full run down of all your dash lights, what they mean, and what to do when one lights up.

-Your steering wheel shakes when you brake. This could mean you have warped brake rotors. The uneven surface of the rotors is what causes the shaking when you brake. If the shaking is intense enough to disrupt your driving, it's time to schedule a service appointment as soon as possible. Your brake rotors will need to be replaced eventually, so it's a good idea to have them inspected even if the shaking is minimal.

-Your brakes are visibly shedding metallic flakes. This is a clear sign your brakes are wearing quickly. If you see flakes near your brakes, have them inspected to ensure your brakes structural integrity on the road.

Testing your brakes is as simple as using them and paying attention! You can otherwise check with your eyes. Most vehicles allow you to see the brake pad through the wheel. If the brake pad looks too thin, think less than .25", then it most likely needs replacement. Some brake pads have a wear indicator slot in the middle. If the slot looks like it's not there, then it most likely needs replacement. If you need help checking your brakes or would like a more thorough inspection, we'd be happy to do so at your next oil change at North Brothers!

We want to ensure you have a reliable vehicle that can get you from point A to point B without compromising your safety. This all depends on the routine maintenance you do on your vehicle, and we're here to help make that happen. We'll not only show you how to check your brakes during Brake Safety Awareness Month, but also provide you help on everything else. We regularly update our website with helpful information and tips about routine and seasonal maintenance. Plus, you can schedule your service appointment online, so your entire routine maintenance experience is easy. We're always here to help and answer any questions you might have regarding brake service or any other auto service you might need. Don't forget to check our coupons page for ways to help you save on auto service at North Brothers.

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+

Service FAQs at North Brothers Ford in Westland, MI

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Having a car, new or old, is a big investment! We understand how big of a commitment your vehicle is and want to help you keep it running it's best. Regular maintenance and auto service will not only help extend the life of your vehicle, but also keep you safe on the road. As there are many complicated components on your vehicle, there are also many questions about those components; how they work, why are they making that noise, when should you have them replaced, etc. We're here to help you answer all those questions and take care of your vehicle at our Service Center at North Brothers Ford in Westland, MI. We've updated our FAQs section on our website to help you better understand your vehicle and it's needs.

Our updated Service FAQs at North Brothers Ford in Westland, MI includes:

• General Car Care. This category includes topics you might expect like fuel types and engine care, but also topics you might not like driving styles and how it affects your vehicle. 
• Under the Hood. We aren't all expert service technicians, but we can learn about components under the hood of our vehicles to better understand what's going on and how to maintain. This category explores everything from the alternator to belts and hoses to fluids. 
• Oil Changes. This category covers all the questions you might have about this simple routine maintenance task from how often, to considering synthetic.
• Tires. They're what connect you and your car to the road, so it's good to know how to properly maintain them, how to achieve even wear, and how to know when it's time to replace them.
• Brakes. This category has answers on everything you want to know about your vehicles brakes. You'll learn why they make noise, when it's time to replace them, and what to look for when they need replacing.
• Wiper Blades. Your wiper blades are another safety component that allow you to see the road ahead clearly. Explore this category for all wiper blade information.

Feel free to explore the updated Service FAQs at North Brothers Ford in Westland, MI page to find answers to your most needed service questions. For your convenience we offer online scheduling done on our website that'll help you save time. If you have any questions you need more information on, or would like to discuss with our service experts, feel free to fill out the form to submit your question or give us a call at (855) 739-2023. 

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+

Show Your Car Some Love with a Pre-Spring Cleaning

WESTLAND, Mich.–– One thing that goes a little neglected in the winter is our vehicles. There is routine maintenance we take care of to keep our cars running well in the winter, however the interiors of our cars probably need a little TLC. The cold weather and the early setting sun make it easy for us to head inside and snuggle up on the couch until bed time. Now that we're seeing a little warmer weather in Michigan, and we're getting closed to spring it's the perfect time to get a jump start on some spring cleaning. Valentine's Day is over but you can still show your car some love with a pre-spring cleaning. It doesn't have to be a complete overhaul, but there's a few things you can do to make your ride feel refreshed and get you prepped for that spring feeling.

• Clean off your floor mats. Take them out of your car and give them a good whack to release the salty dust, and make sure to brush off any crumbs, dirt, etc. 
• Vacuum your seats and floors if you can. There are vacuums available at some carwashes, otherwise you can use your home vacuum and an extension cord to get the job done. 
• Wipe off your plastic surfaces. Lysol wipes are perfect for doing the job, and some varieties are anti-bacterial incase you've been driving around with a cold. You may also consider a plastic restoring polish to make the inside really shine, which you can find in the car isle at your local grocery/department store. 
• Put the windows down. Weather permitting, you can air out any strange smells with a drive around the block with the windows open. 
• Get a car wash. It's necessary if you want to care for your car during the winter, especially if you park in a garage. Rust and corrosion can occur when oxygen meets condensation on metal, and salt can speed up the process. Getting a car wash will make it look good on the outside and help get rid of the harmful salt buildup. 
• Install an air freshener. There are plenty of choices of scents and types like ones that hang from your rearview mirror, ones that attach to your vents, and ones that sit in your cupholder that will make your car feel fresh.
• Clean out the trash. Take out all the trash from your front and back seats including what's in the door and seat pockets. You can keep a bag to help store all your garbage in one place in the future. 

A new car is a big investment, and we want to encourage you to take care of it to extend it's lifespan. We can help you achieve the more complicated stuff like winter maintenance services including oil changes, brake inspections, tire installations, and more. We'll keep you updated on how to take care of your car all year on the seasonal maintenance page on our website! 

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+

Delicious Side Dishes to Make for Thanksgiving

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Thanksgiving is known for the spectacular feasts and time spent with friends and family. To make your gathering unforgettable this November, we've gathered a few delicious side dishes to make for Thanksgiving, and they're sure to become a yearly staple at your Thanksgiving feast.

1. Classic Sweet Potato Casserole 

This mouthwatering sweet potato casserole is sure to be the talk of the town with crunchy pecans and sweet potatoes. For this recipe, you'll need:

• 4 1/2 lbs. sweet potatoes
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 1/4 cups cornflakes cereal, crushed
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar
• 1 tbsp. butter, melted
• 1 1/2 cups mini marshmallows

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees to start with, and then bake your sweet potatoes (whole) for one hour or until tender. Let them stand for about 20 minutes and then peel and mash them. Reduce the temperature of your oven to 350 degrees. Beat your mashed sweet potatoes with granulated sugar, butter, milk, eggs ,salt and vanilla extract until smooth. Spoon potato mixture into a greased 11x7 inch banking dish. Combine cornflakes, pecans, sugar and butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle over casserole. Bake your dish for 30 minutes then remove from oven and sprinkle marshmallows on top of the cornflake mixture. After you do this, you'll want to bake an additional 10 minutes then let stand 10 minutes before serving.

2. Buttermilk Biscuits

This recipe has a surprising ingredient that takes the biscuit from good to extraordinary. You'll need:

• 2 cups self-rising flour (plus another cup for dusting work surface)
• 1/2 stick butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 tbsp. butter melted
• 1/4 cup cream cheese
• 3/4 cup buttermilk

Preheat your oven to 500 degrees. In a large bowl, combine two cups of flour, butter pieces, and cream cheese. Use your fingers to cut in the butter and cream cheese until the mixture resembles cottage cheese. Add the buttermilk and mix with your hands or a small rubber spatula. Sprinkle flour over the dough, and then turn dough onto a well-floured surface. Take a rolling pin and roll out the dough into a 1/2 inch thick oval. Using a flour covered biscuit cutter, cut out the biscuits and brush the tops with melted butter. Place pan in the oven, immediately reduce temperature to 450 degrees, and bake for about 16–18 minutes or until biscuits are golden brown.

3.  Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing. 

Thanksgiving is incomplete without stuffing. That's why we've gathered this delicious recipe that's great for stuffing inside the turkey, or just eating out of the banking dish. You'll need:

• 1 lb. fresh pork sausage, crumbled
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery, finely chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 lbs. prepared cornbread, cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp. finely chopped sage
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1–2 cups reduced sodium chicken broth

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. You'll want to cook your sausage until browned and cooked through, and then transfer to a large bowl. Add the onion, celery and 1/4 cup water to the pan you cooked the sausage in. Reduce the heat and cook until vegetables soften. Season generously with salt and pepper and then add to sausage in bowl. Add the cornbread, sage, and eggs to sausage and veggie mixture. Bring broth to a simmer in a small saucepan and then pour 1/2 cup over stuffing and toss gently. If needed, add up to 1/2 cup more broth until stuffing feels slightly moist. You can stuff it into the turkey or spoon it into a baking pan to cook for 25 minutes.

With Thanksgiving rapidly approaching, we hope that these delicious side dishes to make for Thanksgiving have inspired you. While we're more than happy to supply you with great recipes to feed you and your family, our specialty is still with cars. If you have any questions concerning auto service like tires and brakes, don't hesitate to contact us or stop by our dealership!

 North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185, is proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at (888) 806-7163, our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help!

Visit our website: www.northbros.comFollow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+ 

Tips for Safe Driving During the School Year

WESTLAND, Mich. – Mornings and afternoons can get a little chaotic during the school year as workers commute to and from their jobs, and school buses pick up, transport, and drop off kids. It’s important for drivers to be aware of their surroundings during the school year to keep kids safe. Use these tips for safe driving during the school year to help you prepare to share the roads throughout the next few months.

Keep an eye out for kids in school zones and at crosswalks.

If school zone signs are flashing, reduce your speed and yield at crosswalks to make sure kids aren’t crossing. Don’t block crosswalks, and don’t pass vehicles that are stopped to allow kids to cross.

Remember that some kids ride their bikes to and from school. Unlike kids walking to and from school, kids on bikes appear unexpectedly and could be less apt to stop at crosswalks to check for cars.

You should always be a defensive driver, but even more so during the school year. In general, you should be very aware of kids in a school zone, near playground and parks, and in residential areas. Come to complete stops at stop signs, slow down at yield signs, and always look for kids crossing at intersections.

Respect the rules for school buses.

It’s frustrating when you’re running late for work or trying to get home and you get stuck behind a school bus. Regardless of your personal chaos you need to obey the laws that exist for drivers and buses in order to keep kids safe.

It’s illegal to pass a school bus from behind if it has its stop sign extended and is stopped to pick up or drop off kids. It’s also illegal to pass a school bus from the front in this situation if you’re driving on an undivided road. When you stop behind a school bus, keep a good distance to allow kids a safe amount of space to enter or exit the school bus.

Keep your eyes on the road.

It’s harder than ever for drivers to pay attention to the road due to an acceleration of technology and gadgetry in the 21^st century. You know the axiom: Don’t text and drive. Along with putting down your smartphone, you should avoid tinkering with your radio or anything else that will take your eyes from the road.

As a used car dealership serving Westland, MI, we want our community to be safe and comfortable. You can make schools, neighborhoods, and roads in general safer for kids and other drivers by keeping these tips for safe driving during the school year in mind. You can also cut back on the higher risk of accidents during the school year by making sure your tires and brakes are in good condition.

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, 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+

Summer Car Care Tips

WESTLAND, Mich.– The summer months are finally in sight, and that means it's time to do regular checkups on your vehicle to make sure the heat doesn’t get the best of it. These summer car care tips will help you drive safer this summer! Here are some things you’ll want to keep an eye on:

Coolant (antifreeze)

First and foremost, it’s extremely important to check your vehicle’s coolant level on a regular basis. Hot weather can quickly cause your vehicle to overheat if its coolant level isn’t where it should be. Check if your coolant is below the minimum level on the coolant reservoir. If it is, add enough coolant to get the level where it should be. If you notice your vehicle overheating again, you may have a coolant leak on your hands. This might require a technician to replace damaged or worn components.

Air Conditioning

During the winter, lack of heat in your vehicle can be a major issue. In the summer it’s the exact opposite! You want your car to be cool enough for you to drive comfortably in, and keeping the windows down constantly can drag down your gas mileage. The best thing to do is to make sure cool air blows out of your vents consistently. If your vehicle isn’t cooling as well as it should, you might need an air conditioning recharge to bring back that chill you need for hot summer days!

Brakes

When you’re on a long road trip this summer, you want to make sure you’re safe. If your brakes are too worn, things could get dangerous. Make sure your brake pads are what they should be. Look for warning signs like the brake system warning light, squealing or grinding sounds, and a burning odor, just to name a few.

Tires

Again, summer is vacation season, and many of our customers like to tough it out on road trips. But when your vehicle is traveling long distances it’s vital for your tires to be in good condition. Before hitting the road, make sure you follow our PART rule:

• Pressure: Make sure your tires aren’t underinflated or overinflated
• Alignment: Correct wheel alignment helps proper steering and handling
• Rotate: Frequently rotate your tires so they wear evenly
• Tread: Check your tires for uneven wear or smooth spots

Wiper Blades

Although it usually rains the most in spring, the summer months definitely get their fair share of wet days. Visibility is important when you’re on the road and it suddenly begins to pour. If you’re noticing streaks or smears on your windshield, it’s definitely time to replace your wiper blades!

These are just a few summesr car care tips that can help you make the most of your driving experience this summer. There are definitely more tips and tricks as well as routine maintenance that you can use to keep your vehicle in great condition. All of the New Vehicles and Used Vehicles at our Ford Dealership meet these safety standards, and your vehicle should, too. Schedule a maintenance appointment today to ensure your vehicle is ready for summer!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, 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+