Summer Car Care Tips

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Vacation season is here, which means you'll be out and about a lot this summer! Making sure to take good care of your vehicle and to keep up on routine maintenance during the hot summer months can help you avoid the headache of car trouble on any trips, whether it's your commute to work or to somewhere out of state for vacation. Take advantage of our summer car care tips to protect your vehicle from sun and heat damage, keep you and your passengers comfortable, and to keep your car running well on the road!

Check Your Air Conditioning System

On scorching summer days, you won't regret keeping your A/C system properly maintained! If your A/C system is letting out little to no air or it's not cooling your cabin as quick as it used to, it may be time to have your system inspected. In some cases, your vehicle's air filter may need replacing. Getting your air filter replaced can be extremely beneficial as it will help your fuel efficiency and remove any pollen in the filter which can affect any allergies you might have, making it difficult to breathe. You'll be thankful once you get it replaced when you're stuck in traffic on a humid day!

In other cases, not receiving cool air could mean a more serious problem with your radiator or cooling system. If you're experiencing this, make sure to have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible for the sake of your engine!

Get a Car Wash

Grime and dirt can build up over time on your vehicle and it can be difficult to pay attention to, especially when you're busy having fun all summer. Although it's an easy task to ignore, it's important to keep up on car washes! This excess grime and dirt on your vehicle can cause micro scratching on the paint, which can lead to unsightly rust on vehicle's exterior. Whether you give your car a wash at home or have it washed at the car wash, make sure to top it off with a wax to even further protect your vehicle's paint. If you choose to wash your car at home, use gentle materials and soap formulated for automotive purposes to avoid any abrasion to your car's exterior. 

Park in the Shade

Whenever you get the opportunity, park in the shade! Your vehicle can heat up fairly quickly. Overtime, your vehicle's interior can become discolored and worn from UV rays, so regularly parking in the shade can help fight the aging process. The hot temperature can also wear down other components like tires, brake fluid, belts and hoses, and make them more susceptible to damage. As simple as it seems, parking in the shade will help to extend the life of your vehicle. Plus, you'll be thankful when you get back in your vehicle and it's not blazing hot. 

Replace Your Coolant

One of the most important parts of your vehicle, engine coolant, is used to regulate the temperature of your engine. Whether it's cooling down a warm engine on a hot day or a cold day, engine coolant plays an important role of regulating temperature in your vehicle's regular running function. Because it gets much warmer in the summer, your engine is simply more susceptible to overheating if the coolant is leaking or needs replacing. Engine coolant is typically replaced every 30,000 miles, or at the specified interval in your owner's manual. If you aren't sure when it was last replaced, we'd be happy to take a look and recommend a service date. 

Check Other Essential Fluids

Besides coolant, your other vehicle fluids should be replaced regularly to ensure your vehicle can withstand the heat and get you through all your summer adventures. Whether it's engine oil, wiper fluids, or brake fluid, each plays a very important role. Engine oil is usually replaced every 3,000-5,000 miles. Wiper fluid should be replaced as it's used to ensure you have enough liquid to clear your windshield. Brake fluid isn't something that needs replacing often, but it should be inspected if your brakes are feeling too soft or if it's taking you longer to complete a stop.

Feel free to give us a call if you have any other questions about caring for your vehicle this summer. Follow our summer car care tips for a great season on the road, and stay tuned to our blog for more car care tips, hacks, and more. If you need help with any vehicle maintenance, like an oil change, coolant flush, or vehicle inspection, let us know or schedule an appointment online. Looking for a new ride this summer? Take a look at our inventory of new Fords and stop in for a test drive. It's our goal to find you a vehicle that fits your needs and budget for all seasons! 

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

Visit our website: www.northbrothersford.net

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What to Do if Your Car Breaks Down on a Road Trip

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Road trips can be very fun and exciting adventures, but it's always good to remain prepared in case of an emergency. Making sure you know what to do if your car breaks down on a road trip will pay off if anything does happen to your vehicle. Vehicle breakdowns are stressful and time-consuming, but simple preparation for these types of situations will make the process just a bump in the road on your vacation! So be prepared before, during, and after a breakdown with these helpful tips!

Before: Get Your Vehicle Inspected

The best way to prevent or reduce your chances of a breakdown is to get your vehicle inspected. Schedule an appointment with us at North Brothers Ford and we'll do a full inspection to make sure your vehicle is in proper working condition before hitting the road this summer. We'll be happy to give you an estimate on any maintenance costs, as well. If you're looking to make the most of your money, consider utilizing some of our coupons to save some extra road trip cash that could come in handy later!

Before: Prepare a Roadside Emergency Kit

Keeping a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle will prove extremely useful in the event that it breaks down. Having the tools you need to get yourself back on the road, will help eliminate the need for a tow truck and costly repairs from an unfamiliar auto shop. While a roadside emergency kit can contain many items, we've outlined a few extremely important tools and objects to keep on hand, including:

• A spare tire, jack, and tire iron
• Jumper cables
• Engine coolant
• Water, snacks, and a first-aid kit
• Basic tools (screwdriver, wrench, pliers, etc.)

During: Remain Safe and Calm

In the event that you run into vehicle problems on the road, such as your engine overheating or a flat tire, make sure you're cautious and don't ignore the issue. Make sure everyone in your vehicle is okay and that you're able to safely pull over on the shoulder or side of the road. If your vehicle does run into trouble, follow this 5-step plan to safely handle a breakdown:

1. Turn on your hazard lights and pull over at a safe distance from traffic. This will give you room to assess any damage done to your vehicle and you can pop your hood if you need it.
2. Keep an eye on your surroundings: Are you on the backroads or a highway? Are you able to contact help using your phone? How close are you to the nearest gas station? How well-lit is the area you pulled over at? This information can help you remain safe and secure in the event of a breakdown and can help you alleviate any stress you may have during the process.
3. Take a look at the damage to your vehicle. Is your tire flat? Is your engine smoking? Take note of anything you notice and write it down if you can.
4. If possible, try to perform the repairs on your own. If you have a flat tire, switch it out for a spare, but if you aren't sure what to do, don't be afraid to ask for help. Call the police or a towing company and explain the situation. They'll be able to help you in no time!
5. If you were able to successfully replace your vehicle's tire or perform maintenance or get a tow truck, make sure to take your vehicle to the nearest dealership or auto shop right away for professional assistance to make sure your vehicle is alright.  If you're still in the Detroit area, North Brothers Ford will help tow your vehicle and get everything taken care of as fast as possible. Contact us in the event of an emergency!

After: Keep a Record of the Event

After you get your vehicle looked at and take it in to the nearest dealership or auto shop, make sure you let the mechanic know exactly what happened from start to finish. If you are able to give the mechanic a detailed description of what happened, it will help them work on your repairs at a much quicker rate, and it may get you back on the road quickly. Don't forget to keep a record of your repairs if the problem persists to prevent any additional costs. If your vehicle's repair will take longer than expected, make sure you ask if they offer rental vehicles. Making sure you're back on the road and enjoying your vacation is important, especially after a stressful vehicle breakdown.

Road trips, while very enjoyable, can also be extremely unpredictable. Preparing yourself for any situation big or small is necessary if you want to maximize your fun on your vacation. Knowing what to do if your car breaks down on a road trip will help you save time and money this summer out on the road. Don't forget to schedule an appointment with us before you leave for your vacation so we can make sure your vehicle is up to speed!

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 Road Trip Tips

WESTLAND, Mich.,––Despite the great feeling of staying inside, being wrapped up like a burrito in a fuzzy blanket, and having Netflix on the TV, there are things to be done that require a little travel. Whether you're taking a shorter trip to a relatives house an hour away, or a grand trip out west to do some serious skiing/boarding, there are some things you should do to prepare. The cold weather and snowy roads can make it harder to travel, and there is a higher risk of accident, but some simple inspections and maintenance services can do the job to keep you and your passengers safe. See our winter road trip tips below, and let us know if there's any way we can help!


1. Inspect your tire's inflation level. If they don't meet the requirements on the sticker inside your driver's door, fill them up accordingly.

2. Make sure you have your spare tire ready to go & the proper supplies to change it if need be.

3. Check your oil. If it's low or looking dark and gritty, get it changed BEFORE you go. Even if it's good, you'll want to consider how many miles it has been since you've had it changed, and how many miles your trip will be.

4. Pack supplies for emergencies and bad weather:
   -Extra gloves, hats, sock, and other warm clothing
   -Hot packs for your hands or feet
   -A flashlight & multi-tool
   -An ice scraper and snow brush
   -Jumper cables
   -Extra windshield wiper fluid
   -An extra cell phone charger
   -Extra cash

5. Pack supplies for you and your passengers:
   -Tissues and hand wipes or sanitizers
   -A bag for trash
   -A first aid kit & necessary medications
   -Water, beverages, and snacks
   -Extra charging cables


We hope this brief list of tips provides you what you need to travel safely this winter. Make sure to check out even more tips and information on winter vehicle maintenance on our website. At North Brothers Ford, it's our goal to help keep you safe on the road by not only selling reliable new, used, and CPO vehicles, but also by providing you knowledgeable, trustworthy, and affordable vehicle services. But, just because we're a Ford dealership, doesn't mean we can't help if you drive a car of another make. Our service technicians can help change the oil and inspect your tires on any make and model vehicle. We can make the service experience even easier with online scheduling!

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+

7 Affordable Car Hacks

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Want an inexpensive and great way to spruce up your car's exterior? How about some easy organization for your vehicle's interior? We, at North Brothers Ford, have put together the a list of 7 affordable car hacks to make your car, crossover, SUV, or truck look and feel great inside and out! Several of these solutions use materials you may already have at home and the rest can be found at the convenience store of your choice. From repurposing old objects to using household items in new unique ways, take your car to the next level with these hacks!

1. Use Toothpaste to Clean Your Headlights

Believe it or not, toothpaste, especially whitening toothpaste, works wonders on headlights. Scrub toothpaste on your headlights with a rag, then wipe it away with a clean, dry rag. Use toothpaste, not the gel, and you'll have sparkling clean headlights before you know it!

2. Turn a Cereal Container into a Trash Can

Using an old plastic cereal container and a trash bag, you can create a mini trash can in your vehicle with a closable lid! Avoid trash buildup in your vehicle and keep it all contained in one place with this easy hack. It's also a great way to encourage your passengers to take care of their mess. 

3. Use Carabiners to Organize Your Vehicle 

Tired of hearing your items roll around in the back of your vehicle? Carabiners can be used to hold groceries, shopping bags, purses, and more in place and off the floor! Plus, it frees up leg room for any passengers you bring along, too.

4. Repurpose Your Shower Caddy Into a Food Holder

Are you a person that's always eating on the go? Turn your old shower caddy into a food holder to make driving and eating a much cleaner and easier process! Instead of having to shuffle through your bag to find what you want, you can put everything in a neat and organized caddy to reduce the chances of distractions on the road and avoid messes.

5. Fix Small Dents With a Toilet Plunger

With some hot water and a toilet plunger, you can fix small dents on the exterior of your vehicle! Be careful and wear gloves if need be to protect yourself from the hot water. Watch the video above for a quick tutorial on how to do this dent removal hack. Can't get the dent to budge? We'd be happy to help you fix it at the North Brothers Collision Center! 

6. Remove Stickers With Warm Newspaper

Have an old registration sticker you just can't quite seem to peel off? Wet a newspaper in warm water and place it over the sticker for 10 minutes. The warm water will penetrate the sticker, removing the adhesive and allowing it to fall off into your hands. You can use this method for interior and exterior stickers. 

7. Organize Your Vehicle With A Collapsable Shelf

Using some easy to find hardware and supplies, you can make a collapsable shelf that can help you organize everything in your trunk! You won't have to worry about smushed groceries, mixed up luggage, or misplaced items again with a collapsable shelf in your trunk.

From painless sticker removal to easy dent removal, these 7 affordable car hacks should give you all the tools you need to make your vehicle look and feel good as new! You can keep your vehicle running well with our tips and tricks, and keep your vehicle protected from the hot sun this season with our summer car care advice. If you need help taking care of your vehicle, whether it's a simple oil change or auto body work, we're here for all your auto maintenance and repair needs! 

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+

Summer Car Care Vehicle Maintenance at North Brothers in Westland, MI

WESTLAND, Mich.––This summer, the road will be calling for fun adventures in the hot summer sun. While it's important to take care of your vehicle all year long, it's especially important for the summer for various reasons including: extra travel on the road, hot temperatures, and weather conditions. In the seasonal maintenance section on our website we'll be covering the best tips to take care of your car, truck, crossover, or SUV this season and beyond! Summer Car Care Vehicle Maintenance at North Brothers in Westland, MI is easy with our tips and the ability to schedule your appointment online. So, what are the topics we cover in summer car care?

A/C and Cooling Systems: 

Two of the most important systems that your car will utilize this summer are your vehicle's A/C and Cooling Systems! Your A/C system's job is to keep you cool and comfortable while also de-humidifying the air, while your cooling system holds a much larger job of keeping your engines temperature regulated. Because too much heat in your engine can cause damage to engine parts, it's important that your cooling system be working properly. On this page we go over signs you might be having trouble with both of these systems and what to do to fix and maintain them.

Fuel System: 

Your vehicle's fuel system is responsible for storing and moving the proper amount of fuel to the engine where it is burned to make your car go. Because summer calls for road trips and vacations, you'll want to make sure you're not overspending on fuel! There are some simple steps you can take to make sure your fuel system is working efficiently, which we go over in detail on this page.

Sun Protection: 

It's very important to protect yourself and your skin against the sun's harmful UV rays, but it's also important to protect your car. On this page we'll give you tips on sun protection for your vehicle! Doing so can help the materials in and on your vehicle look like new throughout it's life, and can help keep you cool, too!

Cosmetic Fixes: 

Because of the terrible weather and road conditions we tend to experience in the winter and spring seasons in Michigan, it's easy to let cosmetic damages slip the mind. With the wonderful and easy weather that summer brings, it's the perfect time to take care of those cosmetic fixes. This will ensure your car is protected for seasons to come. On this page we'll go over some of the fixes you might want to make this season.

Exterior Lights: 

Your car's exterior lights are one of the biggest safety components because it allows you to see and allows others to see you. While it could be a simple burned-out bulb that requires a simple fix, it could also be a burned fuse. This page will go over all the lights on your vehicle's exterior, the different types of lights that are used by manufacturers, and things you'll need to consider when replacing them yourself.


We want to make sure you're ready to go this summer and for seasons to come, so taking care of summer car care vehicle maintenance at North Brothers Ford in Westland, MI is of the utmost importance! Our Service Center is well-equipped with ASE Certified technicians that are able to help with anything you need in terms of service.

If your vehicle is on it's last leg and you're ready for a new ride, we can help you decide whether you should buy or lease, plus we'll help you find the perfect vehicle. Check out our Buying vs. Leasing page for an overview of each option and the pros and cons. Delve into more detail on each process and things you should consider by reading through our How to Buy a Vehicle and How to Lease a Vehicle pages.

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+

Top 10 Worst Things You Can Do To Your Car

WESTLAND, Mich.- When you notice something isn't quite right with your vehicle, like that odd noise or that persistent Vehicle Warning Light, the worst thing you can do is ignore it. Ignoring even the tiniest sign of vehicle trouble can cost you big bucks down the road. We know that getting your vehicle serviced is probably not your favorite thing to do, but it is better than committing these Top 10 Worst Things You Can Do To Your Car that will cost you later.

Top 10 Worst Things You Can Do To Your Car:
1. Procrastinating recommended, scheduled, or overdue maintenance on your vehicle.

2. Ignoring the Check Engine light. Learn what can happen when you ignore your Vehicle Warning Lights.

3. Not changing your oil on time, or worse, not changing it at all. Service technicians will tell you that ignoring oil changes is the single most damaging vehicle maintenance item that drivers neglect.

4. Forgetting to check your tire pressure, especially as the seasons change.

5. Neglecting coolant, brake, transmission and other fluid services. Again, find out what damage you can cause by ignoring your Vehicle Warning Lights.

6. Ignoring warning signs that your vehicle is overheating, and continuing to drive. Did your Coolant Warning Light turn on? Don't ignore it!

7. Forgetting to change your vehicle's fuel and air filters.

8. Taking your vehicle to an unqualified or reliable service center for maintenance.

9. Trying to save a few pennies with generic aftermarket parts instead of using the original equipment manufacturer quality parts.

10. Attempting to do it yourself. If you aren't completely comfortable servicing your own vehicle, bring it in to North Brothers Ford Quick Lane service center.

Check out your owners manual to learn more about all of your vehicle's recommended maintenance and keep these Top 10 Worst Things You Can Do To Your Car in mind so that you can avoid car trouble later down the road. As always, North Brothers Ford is here to help so don't worry if you're not an expert on vehicle maintenance. Not only will you save in the long run, but you can save today with our Oil Change Coupons and Brake Service Coupons.

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 knowledgable sales team will be happy to help!

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

Vehicle Warning Light Explanations

WESTLAND, Mich.- Since the first time you ever got behind the wheel, you've probably experienced your Vehicle's Warning Lights turning on a time or two. Sometimes the reason why your Vehicle's Warning Light goes off is not so straightforward so were here to help you out with a basic Explanation of Vehicle Warning Lights!

Service Engine Light-
Don't panic, if your Service Engine Light turns on it usually means that you need to maintenance your vehicle soon. So no need to race to your local Auto Service Garage, but be proactive and make a service appointment as soon as you can. The technicians at your service center will reset the Service Engine Light once your vehicle has received maintenance.

Battery Light-
If your Vehicle's Battery Light ever goes off, you should be a little more concerned. If the Battery Light stays on, get your vehicle serviced right away since the light may indicate that your vehicle's electrical system may have malfunctioned. Ignoring your Battery Warning Light could lead to engine failure.

Check Engine Light-
One of the more confusing Vehicle Warning Lights, you Check Engine Warning Light may not have a straightforward answer. The Check Engine Light could be warning you about a variety of issues,  as simple as not tightening your gas cap enough or it could indicate a more serious issue. Address the issue quickly, with an OBD2 diagnostic tool to read the fault code, or visit your local service garage and they can identify the issue for a small fee, or sometimes even for free!

Oil Warning Light-
Don't waste any time when your Oil Warning Light turns on, get your vehicle serviced ASAP! Usually the Oil Warning Light means that your vehicle's oil pressure is low. If you ignore this warning you could cause your engine to malfunction or be completely ruined.

Coolant Warning Light-
If your Coolant Warning Light goes off, pull over immediately. The Coolant Warning Light most likely means that your your coolant is low and the engine's temperature has exceeded the safe maximum. This causes accelerated wear on your vehicle's engine and can completely fry the engine if it is not addressed immediately. However, do not try to open the hood if you notice steam, let the engine cool off first.

Brake Warning Lights-
The Brake Warning Light meaning depends on your specific vehicle, so check your owner's manual for the exact meaning. For ABS-equipped vehicles, the ABS Warning Light indicates that something is wrong with the system so you should have it checked out immediately. If the light is blinking, the situation is more serious and could mean that your brakes are dead or dying.

Your Ford Auto Service Center in Westland wants to keep safe out on the road, so let us help you understand what your Vehicle's Warning Lights mean and what actions you should take. Don't forget that you can save on vehicle maintenance with our Oil Change Coupons and Brake Service Coupons.

How To: Tips for Keeping your Vehicle in Shape on Rough Roads

WESTLAND, Mich.- Most of us encounter at least one nasty pothole on our work commute. Aside from the minor whiplash your experience, the damage to your vehicle can be even worse. Potholes can even be deadly for motorcyclist and drivers traveling at excessive speeds. At North Brothers Ford, we want to give you some pothole driving advice and Tips for How To Keep your Vehicle in Shape on Rough Roads.

[caption id="attachment_219" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Does your commute look like this?[/caption]

So, what is the best way to deal with a pothole? Avoid it completely. Yes, we know that's easier said than done but if you know of a nasty pothole on your daily commute you could try finding an alternative route.

However, if you must drive over a pothole, the best way to go about it is to accelerate over it so the weight of the car is shifted to the rear. Your natural reaction is to hit the breaks, but the entire weight of the car is then shifted to the front and can result in more damage. Don’t get any ideas…We aren’t condoning speeding or unsafe driving, but physics play a major role in this situation. By gently accelerating instead of breaking, you greatly reduce the opportunity for damage.

Another Tip for How To Keep your Vehicle in Shape on Rough Roads is to be aware of pooled water on the road. Not only can pooled water cause a potential hydroplaning situation, but they also can conceal large and dangerous potholes.

[caption id="attachment_218" align="aligncenter" width="220"] North Brothers Ford Service Center[/caption]

Hitting potholes increases the chance of popping a tire and can also affect your vehicles alignment over time as the wheels become less aligned each time you hit a pothole. This can cause uneven wear on your tires and end up costing you extra money in tire replacements and repairs. If you're now wondering about the condition of your vehicle, stop by North Brothers Ford's Service Center for a vehicle inspection by one of our ASE certified technicians. They can take a look at your alignment, brakes and tires tires for signs of damage and premature wear.  Schedule an appointment at (888) 806-7163 or visit North Brothers Ford located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185.  

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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