Summer Family Fun: Making The Most of Family Time During The Summer

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Summer can offer a lot of fun activities to do while school is out and there is more time to spend with the family. It’s a great time to do some traveling or to get outside and playing some sports. You may even have some movies you are excited to see that are coming out soon at the movie theater. With all the possibilities for fun during the summer months, there are many activities to involve your friends or, perhaps, your family in. Family time is so important and with the summer in full swing, we recommend taking some time to begin planning out your activities for the upcoming months. For ideas on what to do this summer, continue reading our blog.

1.) Traveling:

We’ve all seen the Vacation movies with Chevy Chase. Going on trips when all members of the family are free is something can set up some fun experiences. Your choice of destinations could vary from Chicago to Traverse City. It is completely possible you may be going to somewhere smaller like Grand Haven or Kalamazoo. Whether big or small, your travels will bring a great deal of happiness to you. Traveling in a vehicle or flying somewhere could give you memories of simply getting to the location you are seeking to go to. You might have a television within your car and are watching a great movie. You may have hooked up your video game system and are playing a race game against one another. You could be playing cards or a board game too. What matters is that you are together with them. Once you get there, you will make even more fun times to photograph and remember in a scrapbook. This is your chance to truly make the summer count where it matters. Go travel somewhere with your loved ones and have a great experience.

2.) Sports:

One of the greatest enjoyable moments a family can experience is playing some sports outside. Once your children are old enough, they will be able to play a variety of different sports. With many different sports to choose from, there may be some that are better for you because of the size of your family versus some that could be better if you have a smaller family. You may be playing football or soccer. You might even be waterskiing or tubing. After choosing the sport, the experience will simply be playing it outside with your loved ones. While some might win and others could lose, it’s simply remembering how fun such a thing can be together. There’s no telling what the future holds when you are building trust and teamwork within the realms of your family.

3.) Going to The Movies:

It’s hot out. Who wants to go to the movies, right? Well, on some days during the summertime, it will inevitably rain or it may be a tad bit colder on some nights than it normally is. In these cases, having an alternative to some of the traditional activities could be really helpful. In the movie world, summer is known as "blockbuster season". It’s the time when all the big and crazy movies come out. This summer, you have films like Incredibles 2 and Show Dogs or Hotel Transylvania 3 and Teen Titans Go! to the Movies. For you and your family, that means the opportunity to see huge spectacles on the big screen as well as buy a big soda, a giant thing of popcorn, or some candy. It also can lead you to form bonds with your family you choose to go with. It could be with the whole family or only your siblings. You may never know exactly what happens. However, the simple experience of being together is what matters in the end.

4.) Playing Video Games:

This is another case of when the weather is not as great as it could be. This is when you might consider seeing who can defeat one another in a video game. Such games encourage teamwork and competition. It could bring out your wanting to win and be the best. It might help you to overcome barriers in your family by making two people work together, in order to succeed. It’s chances like this that truly make times memorable.

Family time in any of these activities would not be possible unless you had a motor vehicle. That’s why it may be time for you to check out various new models that are out there. At North Brothers Ford, we have any number of models that are designed to suit your needs. With a family, it can be tough to fit every single person in some smaller models. That’s why some cars can work better than others. Let us help you find the best vehicle to fit your 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 855-739-2023, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!

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+

Top 10 Spring Break Road Trip Tips

WESTLAND, Mich.––There's nothing more special than taking a road trip with friends and family. Although the hours may seem long, it's the special bond and memories made that makes the journey well worth it. Although the good times usually outweigh the bad, it's best to be prepared for the road trip ahead. Now that spring break season has officially arrived, it's time to prepare your passengers and your car for the long trek. Brush up on these top 10 spring break road trip tips to ensure you remain safe and prepared as you travel to your vacation destination:

1. Inspect your tires: Take a walk around your vehicle to ensure all four tires look in tip top shape. Look out for any bulges or tears. Don't forget to check the tire tread, too!

2. Check your car battery: Make sure your battery is running at peak performance. Stop by our service department to get your battery tested to ensure it's in working order.

3. Top off your vehicle's fluids: If you haven't had an oil change in a while, it may be a good idea to do so, especially if you're traveling a long distance. Make sure to fill up your windshield washer solvent and any other necessary fluid you deem necessary.

4. Listen to your brakes: If you notice your brakes vibrating, screeching, grinding, or making a burning smell, it may be time for you to get them replaced. Visit our service center for brake inspections and repairs!

5. Do your research & use a GPS: Travel is much easier when there is a plan in place. Map out your route before you go to avoid wasting time and running into any issues. Using a GPS will ensure you don't get lost and will help you find gas stations and restaurants along the way.

6. Pack a first aid kit: You never know when you might be in need of pain killers, medicine, or even Band-Aids. Get together the essentials so that you don't have to rely on gas stations to be your pharmacy.

7. Take turns driving: If you're traveling with another person who can drive, make sure to take turns behind the wheel! The passenger also serves as a second set of eyes and can give guidance along the way.

8. Get a good night's sleep: It's important to get rest before a long drive in order to protect your safety behind the wheel. You'll want to be able to operate your vehicle without getting tired, especially during long highway driving!

9. Wear your seatbelt & observe speed limits: Although it's the law, it's easy for people to forget to buckle up. Make sure everyone in the car has their seatbelts on to remain safe in case of an accident. Always drive the speed limit, especially in unfamiliar areas! It may be tempting to hurry down to your spring break destination, but your best bet is to follow all laws of the road.

10. Watch your vehicle's weight: In order to maintain proper tire pressure, it's necessary to even out the distribution of weight in your car. Try to pack heavier items toward the middle of the cargo space. This will prevent the brakes and steering from becoming negatively impacted.

Though it may be overwhelming at first, following these top 10 spring break road trip tips will guarantee you have a safe ride to your destination. Road trips can be such an enjoyable experience, so don't forget to have fun and make memories along the way. Before you hit the open road, bring your vehicle in for routine maintenance! It's important to get your vehicle inspected prior to a long trip. To make it easier, you can schedule a service appointment with us online. We're here to provide you with a safe and reliable ride for your long journey. We hope you have a wonderful spring break vacation!

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+

Tips for Traveling Up North

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Heading on vacation soon? Visiting the beautiful northern part of Michigan? Depending on where you live, your drive may either take you a short time or several hours. No matter how long it may be, you'll want to make sure you pack everything beforehand to prepare for your vacation! Use these tips for traveling up north to enjoy your getaway to Michigan's hidden gems. You'll learn the benefits of packing for unpredictable weather, finding fun in the area, and prior planning.

Make Sure You Pack Everything You Need

This may seem pretty obvious, but you'd be surprised at how many things people forget on vacations! Write out a list of everything you need and check it off as you go along so you won't have to turn back to get anything you forgot. A lot of stores up north will overcharge for commodities like sunscreen, so it's best to make sure you have all the necessities before you head out. The more you forget, the more you'll have to spend at a convenience store!

Bring Cash

With this in mind, make sure you have cash on hand, should you forget anything or need gas up north. A lot of stores are still cash-only, and while they may have ATMs nearby, these ATMs will probably have additional fees that will be charged to your bank account. Avoid additional fees and inconveniences by stopping by your bank and withdrawing some extra cash! Keeping cash on hand is psychologically proven to help you save money, too, so use this to your advantage if you're looking to limit your spending this vacation season!

Plan Your Departure Times

Beat rush hour when you leave and return home by leaving before the traffic starts to avoid any unnecessary wait times during the long drive. If you're taking I-75 up north, use the I-75 traffic camera to see a live feed of the freeway through security cameras to plan for any potential traffic buildup. The Michigan Department of Transportation also releases live updates of road situations so you can prepare accordingly for any delays and plan alternate routes. Using these helpful resources can save you the stress of waiting in traffic!

Visit Scenic Routes

While it may seem like going from A to B is the easiest and most time-efficient solution, many vacationers in northern Michigan miss out on plenty of the Mitten's hidden gems! Many of these Michigan scenic routes are just slightly off the beaten path for up north destinations and can be easily accessed at any time. Not only will you experience an unforgettable view, but you may also stumble across viewpoints, beaches, landmarks, and more as you drive along these routes!

Try Something New

Northern Michigan has plenty of fun activities for everyone, but while you're out and about exploring this beautiful destination, why not try something new? Kayak, canoe, ski, hike, camp, or more! Check out the Northern Michigan Events Calendar for updates on cool and fun events, activities and excursions the whole family will enjoy. Depending on where you visit, you can also use Eventful to find events in your area! Enter the dates of a town you're visiting and you'll be able to find what's going on at that particular time. 

Whether you're heading up north for a short weekend or simply on an end-of-the-summer vacation, these tips for traveling up north can make all the difference in the world when you're out and about in northern Michigan. We at North Brothers Ford want to ensure your absolute safety while you're driving, whether it's on a vacation or a commute to work. Know what to do if your car breaks down and what to do in the event of an accident so you're prepared for anything. Before you leave, schedule an inspection with us to make sure your vehicle is able to handle the road ahead!

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+

Check Your Vehicle Before Your Next Vacation

WESTLAND, Mich.,–– Vacations are full of fun and excitement, whether you're traveling across the Mitten or checking out a new state. However, one of the most important steps you can take before you embark on your journey is making sure your vehicle is able to handle the drive. While you may be worrying about packing, you may forget about how big of a difference a properly maintained vehicle makes. Make sure you know how to check on your vehicle before your next vacation to avoid costly repairs or maintenance!

Brakes

Your brakes are the number one line of defense between you and the vehicle in front of you. They are the most important safety component in your vehicle and should be treated as such! If your brakes take longer to slow down your vehicle than they used to, pull your vehicle to the left or right when you brake, or emit a screeching or grinding noise when you slow down, you may need to have them looked at. Knowing how to spot the signs of brake wear will help extend the life of your brakes and keep you ahead of the curve with maintenance. Repaired or replaced brakes can make all the difference in the world when you're on the road! 

Tires

Make sure your tires are able to handle the road by giving them a quick inspection! Check the tread on your tires to make sure they're able to take on the road for a long period of time. The tread, or grooves on your tires, help your vehicle to grip the road. Whether you're on concrete or dirt, they keep your vehicle stable. To check the tread level, place a penny in between the main groove of your tire with Abraham Lincoln's head facing down. If you can still see Lincoln's head when you put it between the groove, this means your tread is worn and you need new tires. If not, you've got enough tread to grip the road and you're ready for a road trip!

Headlights

Driving with clear, strong headlights can make all the difference in the world when the sun goes down! With foggy and dim headlights, your visibility is reduced and it'll expose you and your passengers to a variety of hazards. Test your headlights a few nights before your road trip, making sure that both your regular and "bright" lights provide you with enough visibility. If you're having trouble seeing while on the road, schedule an appointment with us and we'll equip your vehicle with a fresh new pair of headlights in no time!

Engine Fluids

Your engine requires a lot of components to ensure you're able to drive safely and efficiently on the road. Several fluids help to regulate the temperature of your engine, improve visibility on the road, and lubricate your engine's components. Thankfully, they're all very easy to check and replace!

• Oil: Lubricating your engine's components, your oil plays an extremely important role in ensuring your engine runs smoothly. To check your oil level, first locate the dipstick (the plastic ring sticking out of your engine) and remove it from your engine. Next, clean it off and reinsert the dipstick into the engine, removing it again. Your dipstick will have full and empty labels on it, indicating whether or not your oil needs to be replaced.
• Coolant: Your engine's coolant, or antifreeze, regulates the temperature of your engine, preventing it from overheating and causing permanent damage to its components. To check your engine coolant, look for the large, translucent plastic container of colored liquid. The side of the container, similar to the dipstick, has full and empty labels on it to indicate whether or not your coolant will need replacing.
• Wiper Fluid: Under the hood, you can also find and replace your wiper fluid with ease! A full container of wiper fluid will make a big difference when you need to clean any dirt or grime off your windshield, increasing visibility. Find the cylindrical container of blue liquid and look for its labels to find out whether or not you need more fluid. 

Making sure that each and every one of these components is up to speed before you embark on your journey will make a huge difference when you're on the road. Make sure to check your vehicle before your next vacation so you don't end up sidelined on the freeway. If, however, you end up on the side of the road, make sure you know what to do if your vehicle breaks down to remain prepared for any situation. Before you leave, get your vehicle inspected by our Service Staff if you aren't sure whether or not you're good to go for your trip. Your vehicle will be ready to hit the road with a little routine maintenance!

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+