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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Have Your Oil and Important Fluids Checked for National Car Care Month

WESTLAND, Mich. -- The fluids that run through your vehicle, while responsible for specific things, all serve a common purpose of improving your vehicle's function, performance, and efficiency. Making sure that they're regularly checked, flushed, topped off, and changed is an essential part of seasonal maintenance that will help extend the life of your car. Below, we've listed some important fluids that should be checked on a routine basis, and the start of spring is an ideal time to do so. If you're planning on spending a lot of time on the road come the warmer months, it's even more important to schedule a service appointment to stay safe and make sure your car is running at its best.

During National Car Care Month, North Brothers Ford wants to remind you to have your oil and important fluids checked.

WASHER FLUID

Working in tandem with your wiper blades, washer fluid allows you clear visibility through your windshield, helping to wash away precipitation residue and debris. Whether or not your vehicle has an indicator light alerting you to low levels of washer fluid, it's important to get in the habit of checking it yourself so you always have a way to clear the windshield and have an unhindered view of the road ahead while driving. The opening to your vehicle's washer fluid tank can be found under the hood, indicated by a picture of a windshield on the cap. Most reservoirs will accept a full gallon of washer fluid when empty, though make sure to pour slowly and evenly whether you're topping off or filling up.

When purchasing washer fluid, make sure you're getting a pre-diluted solution, otherwise, you risk it freezing in the tank. The next thing to pay attention to is temperature threshold, indicated on the label on the bottle, which tells you if the washer fluid will handle the temperatures you'll be driving in. If you're unsure about refilling your vehicle's washer fluid yourself, we'll happily top it off for you with your next oil change!

OIL CHANGE

Oil is an extremely important component of a well-running vehicle, as it lubricates the moving parts of your engine, helps to reduce heat caused by friction, keeps the engine clean, and protects it against wear. Routinely having your oil changed can help you avoid expensive damage in the long-run, as well as enhance the overall longevity of your car. Routine oil changes should be done every 3,000-5,000 miles, or sometimes longer depending on your driving habits and if your vehicle uses synthetic oil. If you're not sure, always consult your owner's manual.

However, if you have any upcoming road trips or other spring and summer activities that will put you on the road more often, stop in for an oil change to ensure your vehicle can handle it and that your engine runs smoothly.

COOLANT

Coolant, also known as antifreeze, is responsible for controlling the temperature of various engine components. It serves a dual purpose of keeping the radiators in your vehicle from freezing or overheating throughout the year. When should you get it changed? We recommend replacing your coolant every two years or 24,000 miles. However, as always, check your owner's manual for the specific needs of your make and model.

If you suspect that your engine may be overheating or detect a sweet smell while driving that might indicate a coolant leak, let us know and our service experts will gladly check it for you and top it off if needed. With warmer temperatures on the way, spring is the perfect time to check your coolant fluid checked to prevent overheating.

Your washer fluid, oil, and coolant are all important fluids you should have checked this National Car Care Month. All three fluids serve crucial purposes that are essential to a well-running vehicle and work together to ensure your safety as well as that of your investment. To perform their duties, however, they need your help. If you're uncomfortable checking or changing these fluids yourself, the friendly team at North Brothers Ford will gladly do it for you! Schedule an appointment today!

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 Ways to Relieve Stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Sometimes we all just need to take a step back and relax. It's good for you and takes less time than you think. Stress is measured as physical, mental, or emotional strain or tension. It lives inside each and every one of us in many different ways, whether it's work related, an issue with a relationship, or something else causing your brain to go wild. The amount of American's that experience stress has increased over the past few years, making it increasingly important for people to find new ways to cope with lifestyle changes and issues affecting them day after day. We want to ensure that you take the time you need to alleviate some of the pressure you are feeling. Try one of these 10 ways to relieve stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th:

1. Exercise Regularly
Performing daily exercise is an easy and effective way to combat stress, especially after a long day of work. Putting your body through physical stress can actually take away some of your mental stress. Find an activity that you enjoy, such as walking, running, dancing, or even yoga. This will be a great way for you to take a load off!

2. Sleep Longer and Better
A lack of sleep can really cause a significant amount of stress on your body. When thoughts keep whirling through our head at night, it's harder to fall asleep. Relax before bed time to ensure you can enjoy a good night's rest. Avoid using your smart phone device, drinking caffeine, and performing demanding work before bed time. This will keep your brain calm and help you fall asleep faster!

3. Practice Deep Breathing
Stress on your brain ignites your sympathetic nervous system, sending your body into "fight-or-flight" mode. This releases stress hormones, getting you all worked up inside. Practicing deep breathing exercises will activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which controls the relaxation response. Focus on the awareness of your breath to slow it down and make it deeper.

4. Light a Candle
Burn a scented candle or use essential oils to calm your body and reduce any feelings of stress and anxiety. There are certain scents that have been known to be especially soothing. These include lavender, rose, vetiver, bergamot, roman chamomile, neroli, frankincense, sandalwood, ylang ylang, orange, and geranium.

5. Listen to Music
Music works as a helpful tool in treating many different things. It can have a very relaxing effect on the body and helps us manage our stress levels. Whether you prefer to listen to your favorite tunes or you rely on soothing sounds, music is a great stress reliever! Turn it on, crank it up, and jam to some music that'll take your mind away.

6. Spend Time With Your Pet
Studies show that owning a pet, specifically a dog, reduces your levels of stress and improves your mood. Interacting with pets along with cuddling, can spark a positive mood and make you feel much better. Owning a pet gives you a sense of purpose, keeps you active, and provides a companion.

7. Learn to Say No
A lot of stress can be caused by having too much to do in too little of time. We tend to take on more responsibility than we can handle, causing our minds to lose control. Although you may want to take on every task, our bodies weren't meant to perform too much work. Juggle your responsibilities better by only taking on enough for your body to handle. Sometimes it's okay to just say no!

8. Take a Walk
Taking a quiet, meditative stroll, will work wonders in terms of stress relief. Even a simple walk around the block will free our minds and keep us calm. The outdoors are a great place to take our mind off everything and just enjoy the atmosphere. Don't rush, just take the time to relax and stroll.

9. Chew Some Gum
This is a relatively effective method for quick stress relief. Studies show that people who chew gum have lower stress and a greater sense of well-being. Gum chewing relaxes people and promotes blood flow to the brain. So, throw in a piece if you're starting to feel overwhelmed!

10. Laugh It Out
Laughing is a great mood booster and anxiety reliever. It brings more oxygen into your body, stimulates and relieves your stress response, and relieves tension in your muscles, ultimately relaxing your body. Watch a funny show or listen to a comedian for a good laugh. It's great for your health all the way around!

There are many ways to combat the stress you're feeling. Start with something simple and start incorporating these stress relief activities into your daily routine. The less stressed you feel, the happier and more productive you'll be down the road. Try one of these 10 ways to relieve stress for National Stress Awareness Day - April 16th. You'll be thankful you did! Another great way to take a load off your shoulders is making sure you vehicle is up to speed on spring car care. Schedule an appointment with our service team to ensure your ride is ready for the rainy weather this season!

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

National Car Care Month - Tires

WESTLAND, Mich.–– During National Car Care Month, it's the perfect time to get your tires serviced so that you're ready to hit the road this spring. Tire care is one of the most important parts of owning a vehicle, as tires are the safety buffer between you and the road. It's crucial that your vehicle has adequate tire tread, properly rotated tires, and accurate tire inflation all year round. Ensure that your ride can handle the wet road conditions this season will bring by reading these tips:


1. Tire Rotations
It is recommended that your tires are rotated every 3,000-7,000 miles, or every other oil change. Tires can wear unevenly, which is why it's critical to rotate them every so often to ensure they receive even wear across all four tires.

2. Tire Tread
Your tires' tread is what allows your vehicle to grip the road properly. Low tire tread puts you at risk for hydroplaning when the road is wet or losing traction during other conditions. It can also increase your stopping distance, putting you at larger risk of an accident. Check your tire tread using the penny method or have our team of experts inspect them for you!

3. Tire Pressure
The temp outside can directly effect the air pressure in your tires. By maintaining your car's proper tire pressure, you will experience improved fuel economy, less tire issues, and a much smoother ride. Refer to your owner's manual for the recommended PSI to make sure your tires match that amount. If they don't, it's time for them to be filled.

4. New Tires
Did you put on snow tires for the winter season? It's time to take them off! It's best to change back to all-season tires this spring. Winter tires are only built to handle 45 degrees Fahrenheit and under. If your tire tread is worn down, it's time for you to get a new set! We recommend replacing all four tires at the same time. Schedule an appointment with our service team and we'll get your vehicle into a new set of wheels in no time!


Rough winter weather can impact your vehicle's tires tremendously. And spring weather isn't much safer with slippery road conditions. By staying up to date with routine tire maintenance, you can rest assure that your ride will be effective in gripping the road this season. Now's the time to get your car's tires up to speed during National Car Care Month.

Be sure to schedule an appointment online with our service team for any tire rotations, added tire pressure, or even a brand new set of tires. We are here to help you remain safe behind the wheel of a reliable ride this spring! Check out our spring car care page for more tips on tire maintenance as well as alignment care, fluid care, wiper blade care, and spring cleaning.


North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

How to Protect Your Vehicle from Flood Damage

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

Rainy Day Activities for Kids

WESTLAND, Mich.–– We all know the saying "April showers bring May flowers". The rainy spring season brings wet conditions and puddles galore. While playing outside may be the ideal activity for kids, there are many other things that'll entertain kids indoors. Stay safe inside the comfort of your own home this spring and enjoy these rainy day activities for kids:

• Build a Blanket & Pillow Fort: Grab the sofa cushions, chairs, and any cardboard boxes. Drape blankets over the top and put some comfy pillows inside.

• Take a Trip to the Library: Visit the local library to encourage your kids to read. Most of the time, there are classes/activities available for kids of all ages.

• Play Board Games: Board games are an easy way to keep kids entertained and they challenge them to use their brain, too!

• Make a Home Cinema: Compile some of your kids' favorite movies, microwave some popcorn, and cuddle up in some blankets on the couch for a movie day!

• Bake a New Recipe: Most kids love to bake, especially when there is a sweet treat involved. Check out Pinterest for some easy baking recipes for kids.

• Get Crafty and Paint: Cover the kitchen table with newspaper and let your kids enjoy an art session with poster paints or watercolors.

• Make Homemade Pizza: This is a fun and delicious activity for kids to enjoy. It doesn't take many ingredients and teaches kids how to cook.

When the weather doesn't want to cooperate, try one of these rainy day activities for kids that'll keep them happy and busy all day long. There's plenty of fun to be had, even when the day has to be spent indoors. While the kids are busy at play, it's a good idea to make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road this season, especially after a brutal Michigan weather. Spring's showers can make for dangerous road conditions if your ride isn't properly maintained. Read our spring car care tips for information on tires, wheel alignments, fluids, wiper blades, and cleaning for your ride. It's increasingly important to take special care of your car all year long in order to maintain its longevity and performance over 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+

Get Your Ford Ready for Spring

WESTLAND, Mich.–– The beautiful spring season is finally upon us! As we look forward to warmer weather and blooming flowers, it's the perfect time for some spring cleaning. Prep your vehicle for the sunnier days ahead and rid it of the negative impact it received during the long winter. It's important to take care of your investment all year round. Get your Ford ready for spring with these car care tips!

Interior

• Collect all garbage off the floor, under the seats, inside the center console and side storage pockets, and any other space you have items laying around.
• Organize all your small in-car items.
• Use coffee filters to dust your dash and plastic surfaces, as they don't leave behind fibers.
• Wash away the streaks on your windows using a vinegar-based solution and semi-wet microfiber rag. Wipe clean with a dry rag.
• Take the rugs out and shake the loose dirt and particles. Then, vacuum both your seats and your floors, making sure to get in those hard to reach places.
• Add an air freshener to make your car smell extra fresh.

Exterior

• Use a specialized car cleaner soap and soft sponge to scrub the dirt off your vehicle's exterior.
• Take dryer sheets and rub them on your grille and hood to get those nasty bugs off.
• To remove tree sap, use very hot water and a soapy microfiber rag.
• Remember to fully rinse your vehicle before and after the suds.
• If you can, try to rinse the undercarriage of your car to clean out dirt, salt, and any other gunk from the parts that matter most.
• Make sure to change the water if it gets too dirty and to continuously clean out the sponge.
• Rinse and wash your car one side at a time to ensure the soap doesn't dry.
• Waxing is a crucial part of maintaining your vehicle's paint and keeps dirt and grime from scratching the exterior.

Maintenance

• Change your oil and oil filter at regular intervals, as indicated in your owner's manual.
• Check your vehicle's fluids. These include transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper solvent, and coolant.
• Your wiper blades take a beating during the winter from all that snow. It's a good idea to get them replaced to ensure they'll be able to wipe away rain during spring showers.
• Get your car battery tested. Cold temps can do a number on your battery, so getting it replaced may be a good idea.
• Taking care of your tires and consistently checking to make sure they are in good shape is crucial. Measure the tire pressure to make sure it is set at its specified setting. Check your tires for any signs of major tread wear, irregular tread wear, abnormal bulges, and cracks in the sidewall.
• Your vehicle may be in need of an alignment if the steering wheel vibrates, it pulls to the left or the right, the tires squeal, or if there is any uneven tire wear.

Get your Ford ready for spring with these tips that'll expand the life of your vehicle and ensure it's ready to hit the road at all times. Dedicate a day to cleaning out your car, giving it a wash, and bringing it in for routine maintenance. You'll be thankful you did. Schedule an appointment online with our service team for any oil changes, vehicle alignments, tire rotations, or other service needs you have. We'll be happy to help you get your car ready for the spring season!


North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

Visit our website: www.northbros.com

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

5 Games to Play in the Car

WESTLAND, Mich. –– It's that time of year when the weather is getting warmer and snow is no longer a threat to road trips! Whether it be a small road trip to see a friend or family, or a big road trip for a vacation, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the open road. Even if you are just taking a short drive, these 5 games to play in the car will keep everyone entertained. Always remember, if you're a driver, you need to be focused on the road and can only participate in some of these games. Have fun!

1. I Spy

You may have heard of this one before. As it goes "I Spy with my little eye something..." This game can be played virtually anywhere in the light and the car is a perfect place to do it! Whoever guesses correctly gets to go next.

2. 20 Questions

This game is great for kids because it gets them to build their creative thinking and identification skills. One person will pick the object of guessing, but won't say what the object is out loud. The rest of the passengers are then able to ask any 20 questions they want to try and figure out what the object is.

3. I'm Going On a Picnic

Hope you have a good memory for this one, because you'll need it. One person will start by saying they are going on a picnic and bringing an object that starts with the letter A, the next person will say they are going on a picnic and bringing the object the previous person chose starting with A and a new object starting with B, and so on and so on, i.e. "I'm going on a picnic with an alligator and a banana." Each person must list the previously chosen objects exactly or they lose! This works great for bigger groups.

4. Restaurant Race

Each player will pick their favorite restaurant. Each time you see the restaurants on the side of the road counts for 10 points, each time it's mentioned on the radio counts for 5, and each time it's on any kind of sign is worth 5 (the point system is up to you). Whoever has the most points at the end of whatever time limit you chose, that person wins!

5. Categories

This is fun because you can choose any category you like! The first person will name something from a category, i.e. animal - giraffe, then the next person must name another animal that starts with the last letter of the previously mentioned animal, i.e. elephant. You can use animals, food, celebrities, places, etc. This game is better for families without very young.

We hope these 5 games to play in the car have sparked your creativity and eliminated a little backseat boredom! We always want you to be safe on the road no matter where or how far you're going. Plus, we care about your car and want you to get the best performance out of whatever you're driving. Make sure to check out our spring car care pages to see how you can properly get your car ready for all the fun times on the road this spring. 

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+

10 Ways to Embrace Earth Day

WESTLAND, Mich.–– Happy Earth Day! Today we're celebrating the wonderful planet we all live on. To better the places we live, we must take action to protect our natural resources and the environment overall. It doesn't take too much effort to make a big impact. So what are some things you can do in your everyday life to help the planet? Here are 10 Ways to Embrace Earth Day.

1. Start Shopping at Your Local Farmer's Market
Not only does this help your community, but it also allows you to take your produce home almost packaging free!

2. Ensure the Food in Your Fridge Gets Eaten On Time
We all have instances where something gets forgotten in the back of the fridge, or you have a busy lifestyle and just don't get to eat it all before it goes bad. Study your eating habits and make a grocery list that reflects how much you actually eat. Freezing items temporarily can help solve the problem.

3. Open Your Windows 
During those nice spring and summer days, open up the windows for fresh air and a free breeze that'll help cool your house down. If it's a colder day, open your blinds to let the sun shine through to capture the warmth inside. Alternatively you can close your blinds to keep the hot sun out.

4. Invest in Reusable Items
This can be anything like water bottles, food containers, shopping bags, dryer balls, etc. These items can help reduce waste you regularly create. For instance, dryer balls do the same job as dryer sheets and may also reduce drying time, which saves energy.

5. Recycle Anything You Can
There are so many items you can recycle like plastic, glass, paper, cardboard, batteries, printer cartridges, electronics, large appliances, clothes, and more! Doing a simple google search can show you where you can go to do so.

6. Make an Effort to Use Less Water
Taking shorter showers, turning off the water when you're brushing your teeth, and always run full loads in your dishwasher and clothes washer.

7. Invest in Home Products That Use Less Water or Energy
To make saving even more doable, invest in low flow toilets, LED lightbulbs, and other energy or water saving home products. Investing in these products might cost a little more upfront but will help you save on your bills monthly. Also replacing old appliances will help save energy, because new appliances run more efficiently.

8. Carpool When You Can
You can easily share rides with people going to the same place when it's convenient. You can save money and have a little company on the way!

9. Bike or Walk When You Can 
It's not always easy to get out there when the weather can be a little unpredictable in Michigan. When it's a nice outside, bike or walk to where you need to be. This is also a great way to be active!

10. Buy a Fuel-Efficient Car
When it's time to buy your next car, consider buying a fuel-efficient, hybrid, or electric car! Not only will it save you on gas but it'll help save the environment as well!

Ford has some awesome options when it comes to fuel-efficient vehicles. We recommend checking out the 2016 Ford Fusion Energi, 2016 Ford Fiesta, and the 2016 Ford Focus. If you're curious about some of these options, you can stop by our dealership and we'd be happy to give you a test drive!

Another easy way to make sure your vehicle is running as efficiently as possible is to have good driving habits and keep up with routine maintenance. We have pages on our website with tips on how to best care for your car. Check out our spring car care pages which cover tires, wiper blades, fluids, alignment & suspension, and more! For your convenience, you can schedule any auto service 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+

New Stop-and-Go Technology for the 2017 Ford Fusion

WESTLAND, Mich.––Ford has been making innovations to make mobility easier overall for customers with FordPass and new features in upcoming vehicles. Some of these innovations include the upgraded Cold Weather Package for the Ford Escape, Pothole Mitigation for the Ford Fusion, and Winter Wheel & Tire Package for the Ford Focus RS. Not to mention the new stop-and-go technology for the 2017 Ford Fusion making stressful commutes easier on the driver.

This new stop and go technology goes alongside the adaptive cruise control feature available on the 2017 Ford Fusion. In fact, this feature is just one of 20 driver-assist features on the 2017 Ford Fusion. This model will be arriving at dealerships this spring.

Did you know the average U.S. driver will spend nearly an hour per week stuck in awful traffic? Depending on your situation, it could even be more than just an hour per week. Ford knows this is a big pain for many drivers. While they can't particularly make the traffic any better, they can make the drive a little easier, which is where the stop-and-go and adaptive cruise technologies come in.

On the inside of the 2017 Ford Fusion, drivers will be able to set cruise control speed and the following distance from the vehicle ahead. Because it is a semi-autonomous technology, the vehicle will automatically adjust the speed according to traffic. If traffic halts, so does the vehicle. Adaptive Cruise tracks the road every 50 milliseconds with a radar and camera system, which in turn adjusts the cruise control to adapt to current traffic flow.

This entire system, with little to no driver action, can automatically and fully brake the car. The car also has features to notify drivers of possible collision situations. The entire system of features including Adaptive Cruise Control and Stop-and-Go can not only decrease the impact of a collision, but can also completely prevent a collision from happening.

The new stop-and-go technology and the 2017 Ford Fusion will be at dealerships this spring available with these features; however if you cannot wait and want to check out all the awesome features it has to offer now, we'd be happy to show you around a 2016 Ford Fusion. Looking for something bigger? You might enjoy taking a look at the 2016 Ford Escape or 2016 Ford Explorer.

No matter what car you're driving, no matter the features, you should take the best care of it to help extend its life. This includes routine maintenance like oil changes, tire rotations, etc. It's easy to do if you think of it in terms of seasons. Check out website out for the best tips and information on seasonal maintenance and especially our section on spring car care this time of year. No matter your auto need, we're here to help. You can even conveniently schedule 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

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