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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10 Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle

WESTLAND, Mich.- Purchasing a car is a big investment, and taking care of your vehicle can significantly prolong its life. For a quick fix, bring your vehicle into North Brothers Ford for an inspection make sure everything's in order. If you're ready to Do-It-Yourself, check out our 10 Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle!

Break It In- If you just purchased a new car, take it easy during the break-in period! I know you're tempted to see what your new ride’s got, but you’ll be glad you waited later on.

Don't Fill Up If The Tanker's There- When the tanker fills the underground tanks at your local gas station it can stir up sediment, which can cause serious damage to your vehicle. So, go to another station or come back the next day.

Pay For Good Insurance- Like the saying goes: You get what you pay for. When purchasing auto insurance look for one that will pay for OEM parts and guarantee the work that they authorize.

Fix Bad Weather Stripping- Check out your weather stripping, if it's leaking or detached you may be able to repair it with adhesives or foam rods available at your local auto parts store. If you're unsure how to fix your weather stripping, matching weather-stripping can be ordered to fit your car exactly! Just come on in!

Fix Small Scratches And Nicks ASAP- Don't waste any time repairing any nicks or scratches. You’ll prevent rusting and keep your vehicle looking new. You can get touch up paint in your vehicles exact color, just stop by and we'll help you out!

Tape A Cracked Taillight- A cracked taillight or headlight may not bother you, but it can allow water to get inside, which could cause serious problems. All you need is a roll of the red or clear tape designed specifically for this and you can prevent other problems.

Wash In Winter- Washing your car is even more important in winter than any other time since sand, slush and ice mixed with salt can cause rusting. Keep the undercarriage, and other areas prone to rust, as clean as possible during the winter.

Buy A Fender Cover- Doing your car maintenance yourself can save you a bundle. But don't create other problems for yourself by scratching the paint while you're at it. A fender cover drapes over the side of your car and provides a protected place to rest tools.

Rotate Your Tires- Rotate your tires every 6,000 to 7,500 miles so the tires wear evenly and so you can make sure you get the maximum life out of them. Consult your Owners Manual for the correct rotation pattern.

Run Your AC In The Winter- Turning the system on a couple times during the winter months will help prevent moving parts of the compressor from seizing up and the circulating refrigerant will also keep seals in good shape.

We're confident in your DIY-abilities, but if you'd like us to help you out with these 10 Tips To Extend The Life Of Your Vehicle stop by our Westland Auto Service Center. If you're in a rush, we also offer Ford Quicklane! Your Southeast Michigan Ford Dealer is happy to help, just give us a call at (888) 806-7163 or visit North Brothers Ford located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185.  

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

Follow us on: Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+