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+

Service Tips and Tricks

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Owning a vehicle can either be an enjoyable experience or a costly endeavor, depending on how much care and effort you put in. Keeping up on routine maintenance is the most effective way to extend the life of your vehicle and keep it running for years to come. Use these service tips and tricks to save yourself money and time. As much as we'd love to see you, we know that spending too much time getting your car repaired can get exhausting. We created this list to reduce your stress and help you stay on the road for as long as possible!

1. Keep a Consistent Maintenance Schedule

Keep a record of any routine maintenance performed on your vehicle to ensure that your vehicle obtains any necessary repairs or replacements on parts that it may need in a timely manner. Whether you're getting an oil change, tire rotation, or fluid replacement, keeping a maintenance schedule will give you time to schedule appointments based around your schedule and make it easy to get your car in when it needs it most.

2. Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly

At least once a week, you should check your tire pressure. You'll be able to tell if any of your tires are low enough in pressure by simply looking at your vehicle from the outside. If you can see one side riding lower than the others, it may be time to have your tire refilled or looked at. Once every two weeks or so, however, you should utilize a pressure gauge to check your tires' PSI. Check your vehicle owner's manual to determine how much PSI your tires require based on your vehicle's size. Don't hesitate to call us if any tire issues persist.

3. Check Your Tire Tread Frequently

While checking your tire pressure can take just a few seconds, checking tread requires a bit of additional work. Use the "penny method" to ensure your tires have maintained adequate tread and are able to function on the road. With poor tire tread, your vehicle will be unable to effectively grip the road, making it harder to drive on dirt roads or poor conditions. Place a penny in the groove of your tire, with Lincoln's face going directly into the groove. If you can see his face, your tires' tread is worn and your tires may need replacing. 

4. Keep an Eye on Coolant Levels

Your engine coolant, or antifreeze, serves to prevent your engine from overheating, regulating its temperatures and keeping your vehicle running smoothly. Engine coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to do so. Checking your coolant level is simple - after turning off your engine and waiting for it to cool down, pop the hood and look for a large semi-transparent bottle mounted to your engine. The coolant reservoir contains exterior labels that will help you determine when you should get your coolant replaced or refilled.

5. Determining Your Fuel Economy

Determining your vehicle's gas mileage uses a little bit of simple math, but your calculator on your phone can help to make it easier! It's a simple 3-step process, and requires almost no effort on your end:

1. The next time your vehicle's tank is empty, fill it up and write down the amount of gallons it takes to fill your tank. While most sedans have a 12-gallon tank, other vehicles, like the Ford Escape, can have up to a 16-gallon tank.
2. Next, reset your "Trip A" indicator. The next time you need to fill your gas tank (making sure you drive until your vehicle is empty again), write down the number of miles you traveled on your "Trip A" indicator. 
3. Finally, divide your "Trip A" miles by the gallon size of your tank. So, if you drove 335 miles on a 12 gallon tank, your gas mileage would be 27.9 mpg (335 ÷ 12 = 27.9)

Find out your gas mileage, extend the life of your vehicle, and more with these service tips and tricks! You'll be able to enjoy a long and productive life with your vehicle with less stress, saving money all the way. If you're looking to spruce up your vehicle in an affordable and timely manner, refer to our affordable car hacks for a great way to upgrade or renovate your vehicle at little to no cost! You can also further save money with our service coupons, vehicle incentives, and more. 

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+

5 Habits That Will Maximize Your Gas Mileage

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Spending too much time at the gas station can really take a toll on your bank account. Whether you're driving a sedan, crossover, SUV, or truck, nobody wants to spend extra money on gas, especially during road trip season. Save some extra money this summer by learning 5 habits that will maximize your gas mileage! With these helpful tips, you can improve your fuel efficiency by up to 10%, extending your time on the road and minimizing your time at the gas pump.

1. Use Cruise Control Frequently

Using cruise control on a regular basis is one of the best ways to maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Cruise control maintains a constant speed on your vehicle, which improves your mileage by preventing your engine from exerting too much pressure with shifting speeds. Many vehicles on the Ford Lineup carry Adaptive Cruise Control technology, which automatically adjusts your vehicle's speed to match the vehicle in front of you so you don't have to constantly change your speed to accommodate other drivers.

2. Drive the Speed Limit

We know, we know - driving fast is very fun, but it's also dangerous to you and your fuel economy. Besides the danger speeding can present to drivers, going too fast can exert extra pressure on your engine, causing it to drain fuel at a faster pace. In some instances, driving over 80 mph on the highway can put additional strain on your vehicle, reducing fuel efficiency by up to 15%. Driving at the speed limit is the best way to ensure you make the most of your gas tank, and while it may take a few extra minutes to get to your destination, you'll be thankful when you see how much it saves you!

3. Keep Your Vehicle Clean

If it's been a while since you cleaned out your vehicle, doing so will reduce the amount of weight put on your vehicle and allow it to achieve higher speeds at quicker rates. You won't have to push so hard on your gas pedal and your vehicle will be able to coast along without all the extra weight. Maintaining a clean vehicle will help you maximize your fuel economy! Refer to our summer car care tips for advice on keeping your vehicle clean!

4. Tighten or Replace Your Gas Cap

Did you know that over 149 millions of gas were lost last year due to fuel evaporation? On hot summer days, fuel can quickly convert from a liquid to a gas, and the gas can evaporate into the atmosphere if your gas cap isn't on tight enough. Make sure your gas cap "clicks" when you screw it back on. If it doesn't click, or doesn't screw on all the way, you may want to get it replaced. Getting your gas cap replaced is fairly inexpensive and can pay for itself if fuel evaporation is the issue. Parking in the shade can also further reduce fuel evaporation, so consider that as an option, too!

5. Try Coasting

"Coasting" is an extremely useful tool some drivers use to maximize the efficiency of their brakes and fuel economy. If you're coming up to a light that's about to turn red or is red, remove your foot from the brakes and allow your vehicle to slow down naturally (paying attention to the road conditions and other drivers, of course!). This will put less pressure on the engine and brakes, since you won't have to constantly speed up, slow down, and apply pressure on your brakes. Coasting can be used going downhill, slowing down to exit the freeway, and more, as long as you remain safe on the road!

There are plenty of ways to minimize your time at the gas station, but keeping up on these 5 habits that will maximize your gas mileage will help you to save extra money at the pump that you can use for road trips, vacations, and more family fun! If you need your gas cap replaced or believe there's something else causing your fuel to drain at a fast rate, be sure to schedule an appointment with us to get your vehicle looked at immediately. Going on a road trip soon? Make sure you know what to do if your vehicle breaks down to prepare yourself for any situation, and be sure to contact us for help if you run into trouble!

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+

Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Car

WESTLAND, Mich.,––If you haven't checked the weather yet, this week is going to be filled with sunny and extra-warm days. This makes it a great time to get outside and clean your car inside and out! Cleaning your car may seem like a pain at first, but it'll help clear out that annoying clutter that gets in the way on the interior, help your car's exterior look great and stay protected from the sun, and help you get prepared for any upcoming Summer road trips. Here's a handful of spring cleaning tips for your car from North Brothers Ford:

For washing and waxing your car's exterior:

• Use specialized car cleaner soap. Dish detergent is much too abrasive for your vehicle’s paint.
• Microfiber rags, soft sponges, and soft brushes will do just fine. Avoid magic-eraser type sponges because they’re much too abrasive for your car's exterior.
• Use dryer sheets to get those nasty bugs off your grille and hood.
• Use very hot water and a soapy microfiber rag for removing tree sap.
• Always fully rinse your car before and after the suds. 
• Try your best to rinse the undercarriage of your car to rid of dirt on the parts that matter most. 
• Give your tools a good rinse, including your bucket, to ensure you're not washing with existing dirt and grit. If the water in your bucket gets too dirty, don't hesitate to switch it out for fresh! 
• Rinse and wash one side at a time so you can rinse before the soap dries.
• Don’t skip the wax! It may seem tedious, but it’s worth the paint protection it provides, helping to keep dirt and grime from scratching your vehicle, while also providing UV ray protection. If you choose to go through the car wash, make sure to buy a package that includes wax. 

For cleaning out your car's interior: 

• Gather all your garbage and recyclables from the floor, under the seats, center console, glove box, and side storage pockets and get rid of it! This will immediately help to clear clutter.
• Decide which items you really need in your car for the upcoming season, and clear out the rest. you can also get ideas online for organizing all your small in-car items. 
• Use coffee filters to dust your dash and plastic surfaces, which surprisingly leave no fibers behind like paper towels. 
• Wash the inside of your windows to get rid of any unsightly streaks. Use a vinegar-based solution with a semi wet microfiber rag to wash the windows, then use a clean dry rag for a streak-free shine.
• Take your rugs out and shake to release any loose dirt or crumbs, then vacuum both your seats and carpet. If your vacuum is having trouble reaching it all, we recommend using something sticky to pick up those stubborn crumbs. 
• Roll your windows down and let your car air out! If your car still smells rancid, use an open box of baking soda overnight to help rid of any strange scents. You can always add a air freshener to make it extra fresh. 

Need any help getting these Spring cleaning tasks done this week? We can help! Give us a call to schedule an appointment or for any questions on the detail services that we offer. We want to help your vehicle look great and run great, too. Check out our website for more information on some of the routine maintenance services we offer, and don't forget to check out our available coupons as well to help you save.

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+

5 Mexican Food Recipes for Cinco De Mayo

WESTLAND, Mich.––This Thursday is May 5th, and you know what that means... Cinco De Mayo! The day is marked to remember or celebrate the Mexican Army's unexpected win over the French in the Battle of Puebla. While it may not be the biggest or most relevant holiday, it's become a popular date for indulging in delicious food and drink. If you're up for a little celebrating this year, check out these 5 Mexican food recipes for Cinco De Mayo that are sure to please your taste buds!

1. Baked Chicken Chimichangas

2. Easy Chicken Enchilada Casserole

3. 7-Layer Mexican Dip

4. Mexican Slow Cooker Pulled Pork - Pork Carnitas

5. Mexican Fried Ice Cream

These 5 Mexican food recipes for Cinco De Mayo will surely elevate your Thursday! If you're going out to celebrate this Thursday, we recommend planning a safe and sober ride home ahead of time. To keep you regularly safe on the road, routine maintenance is key. 

We've got seasonal maintenance tips on our website for you to follow along with so you can take care of your car properly for each season. This season, our spring car care tips are aimed at keeping your car clean and ready for the warm weather travels ahead. We can help you with any auto need you might have including service. In fact, you can schedule an appointment check-in time online. 

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.northbros.com

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

7 Slow Cooker Recipes to Make While It's Still Winter

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Sorry for the reminder that it's still winter. Hang in there because it's almost over! You can still treat yourself to some comfort food with the cold air lingering. Not to say that your slow cooker can't be used in the summer time. These recipes are warm, hearty, and hit that comfort spot you're looking for during the winter. We've come up with 7 slow cooker recipes to make while it's still winter that you can try out this weekend!

1. Slow Cooker Chicken Enchilada Soup

This soup is actually pretty light, but can hold a nice punch of hearty spice if you season it right. The beauty of this recipe is the warmth it gives as it goes down, plus it's pretty healthy! 

2. Slow Cooker Chicken Alfredo Tortellini 

Italian, creamy, cheesy pasta is the way to a lot of hearts. This slow cooker recipe is perfect because it's a whole meal in one, and is just so darn delicious. It hits a true comfort note. 

3. Slow Cooker Thick & Chunky Beef Stew

This recipe is oh so hearty, and truly fitting for winter. Beef stew is a classic that can be spiced in so many ways and be delicious every time, and the slow cooker version? Piece of cake!

4. Creamy Ranch Pork Chops 

These creamy chops are quite simple to prepare, especially in the slow cooker. This is one of those lick-your-plate type meals the whole family will love. It goes best atop mashed potatoes 

5. Slow Cooker Breakfast Casserole

Can breakfast be for dinner, too? Yes, of course! This casserole is good anytime and leaves room for you to add whatever veggies you like. 

6. Slow Cooker Meatloaf 

Are you a little surprised that you can make meatloaf in a slow cooker? We were too, but it is so delicious! The slow cooker does good keeping the meatloaf moist. With the carrots and potatoes on the side it's a nice filling meal. 

7. Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan

Meaty chicken, warm tomato sauce, and cheese all over pasta is what it's all about. Try this italian classic out in the slow cooker, it's surprisingly easy!  

Hopefully these 7 slow cooker recipes to make while it's still winter are enough arsenal to combat the very last of the winter blues. Not only do these recipes taste delicious, but they also save you time thanks to the lovely slow cooker. Saving time is also easy at North Brothers Ford when you schedule your check-in time for your service appointment online! We can also help save you a future headache by regularly performing maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections to help your car run its best! We've put all the best advice and answers to your questions in our newly updated FAQs page that will help you take care of your vehicle. 

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+