When Are the Best and Worst Times to Travel for Thanksgiving?

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Last year, AAA estimated over 46 million people would make a pilgrimage of 50 miles or more for turkey on Thanksgiving, and it's right to assume that number could stay consistent this November. With copious cars and families making holiday journeys, traffic jams and gridlock are inevitable if you don't know when the best and worst times are to travel for Thanksgiving.

Fortunately, Google spent two years analyzing traffic conditions around the time of Thanksgiving and compiled a mass of helpful data for you to plan your Turkey Day travels around. Before you hit the road for the holidays, consider using these tips to plan your trip.

The worst day to travel is Wednesday.
If you haven't noticed, everyone else usually has the same brilliant idea as you do, which means millions of travelers are planning on taking half-days at work and making turkey trips on Wednesday. It's best to avoid traveling the day before Thanksgiving, but if you have to make the trip on Wednesday, avoid traveling from 3–5 p.m. when the heaviest traffic is likely to occur.

The best day to travel is Thursday.
Is it any surprise the day that most people are busy watching football or sitting down to feast on a bird also happens to be the best to travel on? It may not seem ideal arriving at your Thanksgiving destination on the day of, but if you like the idea of skipping out on traffic jams and gridlock then traveling on Thursday could work in your favor.

Watch more football on Saturday, head home Sunday.
It's understandable that you don't want to overstay your welcome at a family member's, or maybe you're just ready to get home. Either way, staying an extra day could save you from a stressful return journey. Heading-home, traffic on Thanksgiving weekend can be 40% worse on Saturday than on other days. On that note, have another helping of turkey and mashed potatoes, or one of these Thanksgiving side dishes, because you're sticking around until Sunday if you want to dodge traffic.

In addition to understanding when the best and worst times are to travel for Thanksgiving, it's good to know a few travel tips that can keep you safe on the road.

• Check the weather ahead before you set out to avoid accident-prone highways as well as the traffic jams that result from slower speeds and wrecks.
• Map your route in advance. Knowing where construction and busy roads are will significantly reduce your time on the road.
• Have roadside assistance contact information on hand. If you encounter a problem or you're involved in an accident, you should have your roadside assistance number and policy information ready.
• Make sure your vehicle is prepared for the drive. If your vehicle hasn't had any recent  taken care of, it could have a few underlying issues developing. Stop by our service center for an oil change and to have your tires inspected before your long drive. It might also be helpful to take a look at our other car care and driving tips.

We're always happy to help our customers prepare for safe travels. If you have other questions or maintenance needs, stop by North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185. We're proud to be one of the premier dealerships in Southeast Michigan committed to exceptional customer service! Give us a call at (888) 806-7163. Our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help you!

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

Bowwow: Pet Rescue Day at North Brothers Ford

WESTLAND, Mich. ­­–– If you’re an animal lover, there’s a paw-fect (or purr-fect) opportunity for you to get friendly with some downright cuddly dogs and cats during Pet Rescue Day at North Brothers Ford on Nov. 14, 2015.

Throughout Pet Rescue Day, for every vehicle sold our dealership will donate $50 to Providing for Paws, a local organization based in Garden City with the goal of “[providing] community outreach to keep animals in the home,” including through animal rescue.

Throughout Pet Rescue Day at North Brothers Ford there will be plenty of paws to meet your acquaintance. Get friendly with some of our furry friends who will be available for adoption.

While visiting with the canines and felines onsite, feel free to browse are almost-as-lovable inventory of new Ford vehicles and used vehicles. Just think: on Nov. 14, you could drive away with your new Ford vehicle and your new best friend, snout out your car window, tongue flapping in the wind.

If you're ready for a new vehicle and a new pet, come to Pet Rescue Day at North Brothers Ford, located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185. We're 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, and our knowledgeable sales team will be happy to help you!

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

Ford Offers X Plan for Friends and Neighbors Pricing Event

WESTLAND, Mich. –– As 2015 peaks and we speed toward the holiday season, Ford wants everyone to experience the joy of saving through a family discount. From now until Nov. 30, 2015, Ford will offer their X plan to customers who purchase or lease a new Ford vehicle during the Friends and Neighbors Pricing Event at North Brothers Ford.

Friends and neighbors can get the family discount X plan completely complimentary of Ford, meaning we won't have to pull any strings to get you a deal, and nothing extra is required of you in order to receive supplier or X plan pricing. If you've been longing for a great new Ford vehicle, this is your chance to get behind the wheel at a limited-time lower price. As Ford puts it, "It's an inside deal, now for everyone."

You can receive the family discount when you purchase or lease a new Ford vehicle through the Ford X plan during the Friends and Neighbors Pricing Event until when you stop by our Ford dealership in Westland by Nov. 30 to receive great pricing on the best selection of vehicles we have to offer before they're gone. Again, no plan or pin is required for you to qualify for the family discount you that gives you supplier or X plan pricing on a vehicle.

And don't worry, Ford A/Z plan customers, we haven't forgotten about you. Ford A/Z plan and returning leases will also have the chance to save even more during the Friends and Neighbors Saving Event thanks to great family discounts for a limited time only.

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+ 

Get Lost in Ohio’s Ford F-150-Themed Corn Maze This Fall

WESTLAND, Mich. –– There’s no question that fall is the favorite season of our Ford dealer near South Lyon, MI, but this year we might just have to head down to Ohio to immerse ourselves in a truly unforgettable autumn experience you can’t find anywhere else.

If you thought you were a Ford fanatic, check out Leaders Farms’ Ford F-150-themed corn maze this fall in Napolean, Ohio. The maze, which resembles the most recent edition of Ford’s half-ton pickup, was carved out of a seven-acre cornfield, and it looks just as tough as the pickup it was inspired by.

“We are a multi-generation Ford-driving family,” said Kristin Leaders of Leaders Farms, so it makes sense why her and her husband decided to use the F-150 as the theme for their corn maze this fall. Last winter, her husband Brad was reading a magazine when he first saw the new F-150. He fell in love with the truck and decided it would make the perfect theme for their corn maze this year.

Of course, creating the F-150 image in the cornfield wasn’t as simple as driving a tractor. Managing a corn maze demands year-round planning, designing, and maintenance. In order to successfully portray the pickup, the Leaders had to use GPS technology to create the shape.

If you decide to make the trip down to Leaders Farms, you can get lost in the Ford–F-150–themed corn maze this fall, but you’ll also have the opportunity to experience the power of Big Jack, a gigantic pumpkin cannon mounted to the chassis of a restored Ford F-450 Super Duty. Other fun activities include checking out the farm’s 13 goats, 40 cows, and Scout, the barnyard dog.

Seeing the Ford F-150 as the feature of a corn maze is a sight to behold, but nothing is more exhilarating than actually getting behind the wheel of one of these new Ford trucks. 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.com

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

2016 Ford Explorer Launch Party at North Brothers Ford

WESTLAND, Mich. –– The 2016 Ford Explorer is an exemplary SUV showcasing some of the best technology and craftsmanship Ford Motor Co. has developed over the course of a century of automotive manufacturing.

To welcome the latest edition of the Ford Explorer, marking its 25^th year as America’s best-selling SUV, North Brothers Ford will host a 2016 Ford Explorer Launch Party on Saturday, Oct. 17 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at our showroom in Westland. Come #ExploreMore with the new 2016 Explorer, and join us for a tailgate barbecue to celebrate this innovative SUV that we’ve been anticipating for months.

New smart technologies, including front and rear cameras, Enhanced Active Park Assist, and an industry-exclusive Sony Audio System for the Platinum model, are just a few of the upgraded conveniences that make driving a 2016 Explorer an experience in itself. The all-new SUV also packs a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, or a 3.5L V6 engine for the base XLT and Limited models.

The 2016 Ford Explorer Launch Party at North Brothers Ford is your perfect opportunity to #ExploreMore with a globally recognized, game-changing SUV. 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+

How to Inspect Your Vehicle for the Fall Season

WESTLAND, Mich. –– The summer is long gone and we’ve officially been thrust into fall, or maybe it’s best to say the season has descended upon us with its colorful falling leaves and autumnal aromas. It’s high time in Michigan to get lost in a corn maze, traverse through a pumpkin patch, and partake in as many cinnamon-sugar doughnuts and cider as possible.

But autumn is also a prime season to make sure your vehicle is as maintained as it should be. To ensure our customers are prepared to drive through the next few months and into winter, we wanted to share how to inspect your vehicle for the fall season. Follow these tips to enjoy the season without worrying that your vehicle isn’t in good shape.

Inspect Your Battery

The last thing you want to happen is for your batter to stop working. Considering that your batter is what allows your vehicle to run in the first place, it makes sense that you should check it on a regular basis. If your engine struggles to start or you notice other signs of old age like corrosion around the terminals, bring your vehicle to the certified service pros at North Bros. Our techs will test your battery and offer you the best replacement available if necessary.

Inspect Your Brakes

Fall means leaves, which means kids raking said leaves into huge piles, then proceeding to sprint and jump into them. In essence, fall is a season of kids playing outside. This is just one example of why it’s important for your vehicle to have high-functioning brakes that allow you to come to an immediate stop if necessary. Our brake techs can perform an ABS System Diagnosis and brake inspection for you if you notice these signs with your brakes: 

• The brake system warning light turns on
• The brake pedal is vibrating
• An inconsistent brake performance
• Your brake pedal feels soft or goes to the floor
• There is a squealing or grinding sound when applying the brakes
• You smell a burning odor
• Metallic flakes are peeling off the brakes

Inspect Your Tires

It’s always dangerous driving on worn tires, but it’s especially hazardous in the fall when a heavy rain plasters a coating of dead leaves onto the streets. Conditions like this can cause your vehicle to slide without warning if your tires are too worn. If you notice your tires are balding, tread worn, or are causing your vehicle to easily slip in wet conditions, you might need a tire rotation or replacement. This fall, head to our factory-trained tire experts for any of these services:

• Tire rotations
• New tire installation
• Tire mounting and balancing

Inspect Your Lamps and Bulbs

Despite its colorful exhibits throughout October and November, fall can turn out to be fairly bleak with plenty of gray skies. It gets dark early on in this season, so it’s important that your vehicle’s lamps and bulbs function at their best. You can check your vehicle’s lights to see if any are burnt out, then stop by North Bros for a quick replacement of your headlamp, tail lamp, or any interior cabin bulbs.

Inspect Your Wiper Blades

Autumn is a season of falling things –– acorns, leaves, those helicopters no one knows the actual name for –– that get stuck in the area above your vehicle’s hood, and then sometimes the rain decides to join in. Make sure your wipers are prepared to battle all of fall’s fallings so you can witness the beautiful foliage on the other side of your windshield.

Rather than worrying about the reoccurring issues with your vehicle, spend your time enjoying all Michigan has to offer this autumn. Take our advice on how to inspect your vehicle for the fall season and stop by our Dearborn dealer for the auto service you need.

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+

New Ads Show the Strength of Aluminum in 2016 Ford F-150 Trucks

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Maybe you’ve heard competitors of Ford Motor Co. complain about the fact that the 2016 Ford F-150 is fashioned from aluminum instead of a big, heavy chunk of steel. But the Dearborn automaker has taken up the gauntlet with these haters and makes plenty of rebuttals in its new ads that show the strength of aluminum in 2016 Ford F-150 trucks.

Ford created three television spots to air throughout the 2015 NFL season, and the automaker intends to get the point across that the 2016 F-150 is the most remarkable pickup to date. Contrary to what competitors claim, these commercials provide the evidence necessary to back up Ford's aluminum alloy masterpiece.

The first ad, “Wake-Up Call,” sticks it to the man right away and boasts of the F-150’s best-in-class high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy that shaves 700 pounds from the pickup to enhance towing, payload, and gas mileage. As the unabashed narrator blatantly states, this is Ford’s wake up call, and in the truck game it’s either the aluminum age or the Stone Age.

The next ad, “Battle Tested,” is all about the new standard of safety the 2016 F-150 has set after earning a five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The spot shows the pickup towing a row of custom crafted 8-foot-tall metal stars to show what it looks like to be the only full-size, light-duty pickup to earn the government’s highest safety rating for all crash test modes and cab configurations on the driver and passenger sides of a truck.

The last ad, “Brainstorm” (not shown), expands on the ingenuity found in the 2016 F-150’s segment exclusive Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which makes backing up your trailer just about the easiest thing ever.

Although Ford has already debunked most of the disparaging myths about its trucks, the automaker has outdone itself with new ads that show the strength of aluminum in 2016 F-150 trucks. The ads were a chance for Ford to tell the truth about its innovative and durable aluminum trucks, while also sharing some of its quirky creativity and brazenly honest opinions of why its aluminum alloy trucks are ahead of the curve.

Instead of going with typical computer-generated imagery, Ford chose to express the best parts of its innovative aluminum F-150 through an innovative filming technique that aligns with the honesty of its brand. The commercials were filmed using live-action and stop-motion animation rather than digital to give onlookers a less fabricated and more organic viewing experience.

Now in its 67th year, Ford’s F-Series has been the best-selling truck in America for 38 consecutive years, and the best selling vehicle in America for 33 consecutive years. As you can tell from the commercials, Ford knows what it’s doing with its trucks, which is why we tell all of our Redford area used car dealer customers they won’t find any other truck like a Ford F-150, even if it’s used.

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+

2017 Ford Super Duty’s New Updates Make It an Unstoppable Pickup

WESTLAND, Mich. –– What would you expect in a heavy-duty pickup if its automaker claimed it was the toughest, smartest, and most capable truck leader? Ford Motor Co. didn’t outright claim this for its newest Super Duty, but plenty of Built Ford Tough drivers are happy to tout that the 2017 Ford Super Duty’s new updates make it an unstoppable pickup, and here’s why:

The 2017 Super Duty is Tough

Ford gave the newest addition to its heavy-duty lineup an all-new, high-strength steel frame that hikes up frame stability by 24 times that of the previous Super Duty’s frame. Did you just put your boat away for the season? It’s time to pull it back out because you need to experience the 2017 Super Duty’s hauling power thanks to stronger four-wheel-drive, driveline, axles, and towing components.

The steel frame battens down the hatches for you, but overtop of that foundation is high-strength, military-grade, aluminum alloy, which Ford is proud to claim “is more dent- and dint-resistant than the outgoing steel body and not subject to red rust corrosion.” By using high-strength aluminum alloy, the Super Duty dropped 350 pounds but keeps a strong core thanks to its steel frame. How’s that for all the aluminum haters out there?

The 2017 Super Duty is Smart

Remember when we told you you’re going to need to pull your boat back out to experience the towing capacity of the new Super Duty? Well here’s another reason: Ford says “towing is core to the Super Duty mission,” and brand new coaching and camera technology makes it easy and convenient. Check out this technology:

• 16 segment-first new features, including LED lighting and adaptive cruise control
• Seven cameras that show more angles and monitor the premises around the truck
• Center high-mounted stop lamp camera so you can see inside the cargo box easily, and to help you attach your trailer
• 360-degree camera system that shows an above view of the area around the pickup
• Trailer reverse guidance to help you reverse with whatever you have in tow
• Trailer camera able to be hooked up for increased visibility assistance
• In-cab trailer tire pressure monitoring system
• Adaptive steering technology to help you maneuver with the biggest loads
• SYNC 3 communications and entertainment system
• Blind Spot Information System
• Lane departure warning to alert you when another driver veers into your lane
• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning

The 2017 Super Duty is Capable

After shedding hundreds of pounds, the new Ford Super Duty is more capable than it ever has been. You can stick a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 diesel engine under the hood to get an insane amount of horsepower and torque. Opt for a 6.2L V8 gas engine for your F-250 and you experience the TorqShift-G transmission. Or, go with a 6.7L Power Stroke V8 diesel, a 6.8L V10 gas, or a 6.2L V8 gas engine. Regardless of what engine you choose, you’ll have more towing and hauling power than you’ve had the privilege to experience as of yet.

If you’re ready to experience the 2017 Ford Super Duty’s new updates that make it an unstoppable pickup, we’ll keep you posted on when it’s time to stop by our Ford dealership near Taylor for a test-drive. In the meantime, feel free to browse our other capable Ford cars trucks for sale.

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+

Vroom: Ford Fights Cancer With Speed

WESTLAND, Mich. –What’s the best way to fight cancer? With speed, and Ford Motor Co. is doing just that by auctioning a 2016 Shelby GT350R Mustang, which goes zero to 60 mph in four seconds, to raise funds for the American Cancer Society at the Cattle Baron’s Ball Auction on September 26, 2015.

The Mustang is unique among others, designed specifically for this awareness and fundraising event, and showcases unique features made possible by a large group of suppliers who provided materials and time needed to build such a magnificent Mustang. Some of the standout features include:

• Oxford white exterior
• Unique blue stripe that matches the interior stitching on the door panels, seats, center console, instrument panel, and steering wheel.
• Ford Performance Parts rear seat kit (a first for the Shelby GT350R)
• Carbon fiber exterior accents
• Cattle Baron’s Bal “one-of-one” sill plates and instrument panel badging

“We are customizing this unique Shelby GT350R Mustang to attract the highest possible bids from car collectors and, ultimately, the most money to support American Cancer Society research, programs and services for cancer survivors and their loved ones,” said Hau Thai-Tang, Ford Motor Company group vice president, Global Purchasing and Honorary Chair of the Cattel Baron’s Ball.

The American Cancer Society Cattle Baron’s Ball is a distinguished charitable event in Metro Detroit, and has experienced immense success since inception in 2003. As a Western-themed event, the ball includes live entertainment, Texas-style cuisine prepared by Detroit’s own high-end restaurants, dancing, a live and silent auction, and other attractions.

You can help Ford fight cancer with speed and place your bid for the Shelby Mustang GT350R in-person or through a call-in bid. To get more information on how you can participate, call Christine Kenny at 248 663 3414. If you’re interested in leasing or buying a 2015 or 2016 Mustang, stop by our Plymouth area dealership and test drive the latest editions of the world's first pony car.

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+

Ford SYNC 3 is Open to App Developers

WESTLAND, Mich. – After a strong debut this summer, Ford’s SYNC 3 is now open to app developers, allowing them to create specific apps that utilize and enhance the communication and entertainment system’s capabilities, including voice recognition and touch screen user interface.

Ford’s SYNC 3 comes with upgrades to the system such as SYNC AppLink, which lets you control your smartphone apps with voice-command and shows your phone apps on the SYNC screen. Ford has released a SYNC 3 development kit and vehicle data simulator software development kit that help app developers create apps without access to a Ford vehicle in order to improve and expand upon the SYNC 3 foundation.

Developers have access to over a dozen design templates to guide them through app development for SYNC 3, as well as new AppLink application programming interfaces with new capabilities that developers can use to:

• Send push notifications to drivers à la your smartphone
• Utilize cloud-based voice-activated services for in-app actions
• Provide real-time information culled from vehicle sensors so drivers can customize and personalize their apps

Since 2013, more than 13,000 developers have registered for Ford’s industry-first developer program, and over 24,000 software development kits have been downloaded. The result has been over 90 iOS and Android smartphone apps that work with AppLink, including Pandora, Spotify, Glympse, Sina Weibo, and QQ Music.

Now that Ford SYNC 3 is open to app developers, Ford expects its renowned communication and entertainment system to grow more than ever, namely in uncharted categories such as health and wellness, connected home, and productivity. With a number of new AppLink possibilities for your SYNC 3 system, it will be important for you to stay attentive to updates, ways to navigate your SYNC 3 system, and the many new apps available to you to make your driving experience safer and more convenient.

The best way to learn all about everything new with SYNC is to attend a SYNC Session at our Ford dealership serving Dearborn, MI. Our helpful staff can answer all of your questions on new Ford technology in SYNC 3, as well as give you tips on ways to use your vehicle’s SYNC 3 system to the best of its abilities.

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+

Ford's Adaptive Steering Technology Helps You Keep Control of Your Vehicle

WESTLAND, Mich. – Wouldn’t it be nice if your vehicle were equipped with the same steering technology available to NASCAR drivers? 

Okay, it’s unlikely we have any used vehicles capable of that performance at our Taylor area used car dealer, but we guarantee sometime in the very near future you'll be able to experience Ford Motor Co.'s adaptive steering technology and keep control of your vehicle.

Ford's adaptive steering system operates different from your typical fixed-ratio steering system. Instead of directly affecting the direction of your front wheels when you turn the steering wheel, the new steering system adapts to your vehicle speed and intervenes to adjust the ratio between how many times you turn your steering wheel and how your front wheels respond.

With Ford's adaptive steering technology you can keep control of your vehicle regardless of how fast you're going: 

• At low speeds the adaptive steering aids you in maneuvering your vehicle by requiring more turns of the steering wheel to change directions, giving you more control in situations such as parking.

• At high speeds the steering system keeps your vehicle agile by requiring less turns of the steering wheel to change directions, giving you more control for driving on highways.

Ford’s adaptive steering technology – developed with TKAG, a Germany-based automotive supplier – is equipped with a precision-controlled actuator inside the steering wheel. The actuator is an electric motor and gearing system that basically gives or takes from your steering inputs.

Other than the actuator, the adaptive steering system sticks to the program and provides all of the features found in traditional steering systems. Expect to see this new steering system soon when it debuts with the 2016 Ford Edge.

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+

Your Chance of Hitting a Deer With Your Car in Michigan

WESTLAND, Mich. – In 2014, Michigan experienced 45,690 vehicle-deer crashes, of which 1,072 people were injured and six were killed. The lion’s share of those collisions – 26,312 ­–occurred during dark, unlighted hours, primarily between October and December, according to Michigan Traffic Crash Facts, a subsidiary of the Michigan Office of Highway Planning.

Michigan is ranked 10th in the nation for vehicle-deer collisions and your chance of hitting a deer with your car in Michigan is 1-in-97, almost double that of drivers in lower-ranked states, according to State Farm. But there are steps you can take to avoid the dangerous scenario that entails your car, a deer, and the road:

• Drive cautiously at night. Deer are nocturnal animals, which explains why the majority of vehicle-deer collisions in Michigan occur at night. Shine your high beams while driving on unlit roads in order to spot deer further ahead. Those few seconds of extra sight could be the difference between you slowing down in time or – gulp. 

• Drive slow if you see a deer crossing sign; it’s there for a reason. Just as humans populate cities, deer congregate in herds in certain areas more often than others. Heed the sign’s warning and drive cautiously.

• If you see one deer crossing a road, assume more are coming. Even if a deer crosses the road ahead of you and reaches the other side before you’re close, the best thing to do is slow down until you’re out of the area. Deer tend to travel in groups, so other deer not visible to you at the moment could be preparing to cross the road. 

• Don’t swerve if a deer jumps in front of your car. If you have to hit a deer, firmly apply your brakes, grasp your steering wheel with both hands, and continue forward. It’s safer for you to hit a deer than it is to swerve, which could take you into oncoming traffic, a tree, or a ditch.

• If you have to hit a deer, do it at the lowest possible speed. Contrary to the myth that you should maintain or increase your speed when hitting a deer, it’s better to reduce your speed as much as possible. People commonly fear that braking will cause your bumper to dip, thus causing more danger for you. But if you hit a deer at a high speed it causes the deer to absorb a greater force of impact, which is dealt back in full force to your vehicle.

While your chance of hitting a deer with your car in Michigan is higher than in other states, you can greatly reduce your likelihood of becoming a statistic by following the tips we’ve laid out. But if you do find yourself with a damaged front end after an encounter with a deer, bring your vehicle into our Plymouth car dealer and we’ll make sure you receive the right car repair to make your vehicle look great again.

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+

2015 Ford Mustang Reaches Global Fame As World’s Most Popular Car

WESTLAND, Mich. – Loaded with muscular components – including upgraded V6 and V8 engines, as well as the all-new 2.3L EcoBoost – the 2015 Ford Mustang roars with performance and exhibits alluring design elements that stir envy in other drivers.

The car hails from an impressive lineage with roots tracing back to the 1964 Mustang, America’s first pony car. But if you’re under the impression Americans are the only drivers who love the Mustang, it's time to reshape your perspective because the 2015 Ford Mustang has reached global fame as the world’s most popular car.

HIS Automotive data backs the Mustang’s claim of prominence with a study showing 76,124 global registrations by 2015 Mustang owners, up 56% from 2014. Ford is taking seriously the sixth-generation Mustang’s global impact, and has determined now is the perfect moment to release its lauded pony car to 100 global markets for the first time.

Unlike the American road system, many foreign markets drive on the left side of the street. That’s why Ford will produce the RHD (right hand drive) Mustang at its Flat Rock Assembly Plant in Michigan for 25 RHD markets, including the U.K., South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and others.

With the 2015 Ford Mustang reaching global fame as the world’s most popular car, it’s still expected to outsell the Chevrolet Camaro for the first time in six years. The 2016 Camaro could narrow the competitive gap, but considering the advancements Ford has already made and is expected to make to their vehicles, the Mustang still has a good shot at staying king of the world.

If you’re in the market for a 2015 Mustang, stop by our Ford dealership serving Livonia, MI, for a test-drive or to take a look at our other new Ford cars for sale.

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 our Redford area used car dealer and check out our Certified Pre-Owned cars and trucks for sale, 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+

2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility Will Set Standards for Police Pursuit Vehicles

WESTLAND, Mich. –The 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility will set standards for Police Pursuit Vehicles (PPV) when it hits the streets with upgraded design and technology.

According to Ford, the Police Interceptor SUV and sedan models dominated the 2015 public safety vehicle segment and garnered 55% of the market share. The 2016 Police Interceptor Utility was developed under the guidance of Ford’s Police Advisory Board of law enforcement professionals, and the improvements made should bolster Ford’s position in the segment.

One standout feature sure to help the 2016 Ford Police Interceptor Utility set standards for PPVs is the vehicle’s lights. Ford designed them to be capable of flashing up to 25 distinct patterns, and their seamless integration into the front and rear fascias adds to the SUV’s covert look.

Every component of the SUV is designed with uncompromising durability so the vehicle can withstand the mots egregious conditions or circumstances. The Interceptor’s A-pillar is built of boron steel, and a hydroformed steel tube spans the width of the SUV to provide additional support. Even the tires exhibit durability and are capable of reaching 50,000 miles before showing noticeable tread wear.

The SUV includes all-wheel drive and a standard 6-speed transmission that includes a Pursuit Mode. The transmission changes from Normal to Pursuit Mode when it recognizes an officer is in hot pursuit or another contentious situation. Software also enables the SUV to spin 180 degrees when reversing and then continue driving forward – a reverse J-turn.

Police departments can choose between a 3.7L V6 engine producing 304 horsepower and 279 lb.-ft. of torque, or a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine producing 350 lb.-ft. of torque for their 2016 Police Interceptor Utilities. Both engines meet test requirements held by the Michigan State Police and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Of course, all of the standard features that officers expect in a PPV are available in the 2016 Police Interceptor Utility. But considering the additional updates, this PPV is definitely what you’ll want to see departments in your area using. 

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 our Redford area used car dealer and check out our Certified Pre-Owned cars and trucks for sale, or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

Tips to Help You Grill Safely on Labor Day

WESTLAND, Mich. –– Labor Day celebrates your work ethic, so you should spend it relaxing instead of using the tiny fire extinguisher you've stored under your sink for 10 years to douse 6-foot tongues of flame flaring up from your grill. To prevent incidents like this from occurring, when all you want to do is brown a few New York strip steaks, follow these tips to help you grill safely on Labor Day.

• Keep your grill clean. You should frequently take a grill brush to the racks and clean off the residual fat and char from previous barbecues. These substances are flammable, and when they build up overtime they become like a dry pine forest in a wildfire. Don’t forget to clean the tray below your grill, another area where flammable residue accumulates.


• Don’t leave your grill unattended. How many times have you done this? You just need to slip inside for a second to chop the green peppers or use the bathroom; nothing precarious will happen with my grill, you think to yourself. But leaving your grill unattended is a huge risk. It only takes a few seconds for flames to get out of hand, and if you’re inside it could be too late. Always have someone keep an eye on your grill.


• Don’t grill too close to home. Despite forewarnings, many people still grill too close to their homes and on decks. Your grill shouldn’t be practically up against your home, nor should you grill on a flammable surface like a deck. It’s safer to lay a few pavers in a designated area away from your home and deck and grill there. This greatly decreases the risk of grill flames causing a rather heated situation.


• Properly dispose of charcoal. Despite the dominance of propane, you might prefer to use a classic charcoal grill. But these grills also pose a danger if safety protocol is neglected. You need to properly dispose of charcoal after you’re done grilling. Wait for the coals to cool, then dump them in a metal container before disposing of them completely. The other option is to let the coals burn to an ashen or frail enough state that they can be broken up and dumped somewhere, but the former is recommended for environmental reasons.


• Don’t ignore the smell of propane or gas. Before you ignite your grill, check for leaks in the hose that attaches the propane tank. If you smell gas, shut off your grill and step away. If the odor persists, don't start your grill. Detach the propane tank and refrain from grilling until you purchase and install a new hose.


• If your grill’s flames go out, it could be an omen. If you're using a propane-powered grill, it’s no trivial matter if the flames suddenly dissipate. If you catch this right away, turn off your grill and wait 30 seconds before reigniting it. But if your grill has been closed for a few minutes and the flames are out when you open it, it could be a sign of trouble. This means the propane has been pooling in your grill the entire time, and if you ignite your grill all of that propane could cause an explosion. Don’t excuse extinguished flames as a mysterious phenomenon where the answer is to simply reignite your grill. Instead, wait 15 minutes with your grill lid open, and then make another ignition attempt. If it ignites, watch the flames for a few minutes to make sure they don't go out again.

You want to enjoy your day off and arrive to work free of injuries the following morning. Enjoy the holiday and before you bring out the tongs and assorted meats, take into account these tips to help you grill safely on Labor Day.

Like grilling, it’s important to make sure your vehicle meets safety standards. To ensure you’re vehicle is safe to drive, bring it into our Plymouth area Ford dealer for routine oil changes and auto 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, committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by, or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

Tips for 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+