Spring Vehicle Maintenance
Spring is Finally Here!
The winter frost has passed, and sunny skies along with warm weather are here. We’re being lead into summer, with hot weather, dry air and a lot more bugs in the atmosphere. There are a few things that you will need to do to get your car up to speed for the hot half of the year, here in Colorado. Many of the recommended steps to take for spring and summer maintenance are similar to those that you would do in preparation for the winter, however, it’s still important to remember exactly what needs to be done during a change of seasons. Follow these guidelines to get your car up to speed for the warmer months.
Exterior Maintenance
The outside of the car shouldn’t need much in the way of repairs or replacements, however, the winter may need to be “washed” off. First, change your windshield wiper blades, as the winter seems to take quite a toll on those through all the mag-chloride on the roads. Next, you’ll want to check your tires for pressure and signs of wear. If you used snow tires during the winter months, now would be a good time to change those out to your regular tires. There is a simple test to check the wear on your tires and whether or not you’re ready for new ones; insert a penny into the tread of the tire, if the top of President Lincoln’s head is showing above the tread level, you may need to head to the tire shop for some new tires. You’ll also want to check for uneven wear or any abnormalities in the tires. The last exterior maintenance step is an extra thorough car wash. Wash the car from top to bottom, and get the undercarriage too. If you notice chips, scratches or flaws in the paint be sure to repair them to prevent rust damage. Springtime is the best time for a good wax too, this will protect your car and also make washing it a little easier through the season!
Mechanical Maintenance
Starting a new season, you’ll want to kind of check everything over and confirm that your car is ready for the season. Spring is a great time for a thorough check-up, so take your car in for an oil change and ask the technician to do a semi-annual check of the fluids, functionality, and equipment. This is customary and most vehicle service centers will do it for a very minimal charge. If they make recommendations for repairs or maintenance, be sure to follow up and take care of what needs to be cared for.
Undercarriage Maintenance
Through the rough winter months our cars suffer some serious wear and tear. All the potholes left from icy roads, the massive bumps we pass over, and the chemicals that splash up onto our cars can be cause for some seasonal maintenance. The underside of your vehicle is more important that you may think. Check your brake system from top to bottom, including pads or shoes, rotors, drums, and brake fluid. You’ll also want to check the shocks or struts; you’ll want to look for signs of damage like rust, leaks or dents. Obviously, if you notice anything, you may want to take the car into the shop to have the affected parts replaced. Lastly, since the snow has cleared, you’ll want to start checking the ground underneath where you normally park your car to see if there are any fluid leaks. If you notice spots in your parking spot, be sure to take the car in to have repairs made on damaged hoses or fluid lines.
Overall, by following these simple maintenance steps, you can help ensure your safety on the road, as well as all the other drivers around you. It never hurts to check just to be sure, and by doing so you can save yourself time and money in the future for vehicle malfunction due to maintenance short-comings. Happy Spring!
