Spring Car Maintenance checklist this season
Spring Car Maintenance checklist this season
Posted on June 6, 2024
As the winter season fades away and the warmer spring weather arrives, car owners need to shift their focus toward spring car maintenance. While it may be tempting to overlook this important step, neglecting proper maintenance can lead to costly repairs and put you at risk on the road. We have compiled a comprehensive spring car maintenance checklist to help you keep your vehicle in prime condition for the season. Following these tips will ensure your safety and save you from unnecessary expenses down the line.
Swap out Your Winter Tires
With rising temperatures, it's time to remove them. Winter tires are designed for snowy and icy conditions and tend to wear out faster in warmer weather. Investing in reliable summer or all-season tires will improve handling and performance on snow- and ice-free roads. Remember to wash your winter tires before storing them to prevent corrosion.
Rotate your Tires
While changing them, consider rotating them as well. Tire rotation ensures even wear and extends their lifespan. Front tires tend to wear out more quickly due to the vehicle's weight distribution. A routine tire rotation at an auto mechanic's shop can significantly improve gas mileage and prevent hydroplaning incidents.
Check for Alignment Issues
Potholes, hidden curbs, and icy ruts can impact your wheel alignment. Signs of misalignment include an off-center steering wheel or a pulling sensation while driving at higher speeds. Uneven tread wear may also indicate alignment issues. Schedule a professional alignment check to ensure optimal vehicle performance and safety.
Wash Away Road Salt
Winter driving often leaves a layer of salt on your vehicle's exterior, leading to rusting and other damages. Removing this salt buildup is crucial by thoroughly washing your car and paying attention to the undercarriage. Many car wash facilities offer high-pressure spray services specifically for salt removal.
Replenish Fluids
Refer to your owner's manual, but generally, spring is an excellent time to check and change your vehicle's fluids. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield wiper fluid. Proper fluid levels and quality ensure smooth operation and prevent costly repairs.
Check the Brakes
Winter road conditions can affect your vehicle's braking system. Have a mechanic inspect your brakes, including the pads and rotors, to ensure they are in good condition. Neglecting brake maintenance can lead to safety hazards and expensive repairs.
Replace Air Filters
Dust, mildew, and other allergens can accumulate in your vehicle's air filters during winter, leading to poor air circulation and unpleasant odours. Replace both the engine air filter and the cabin air filter to improve the air quality in your vehicle and maintain optimal engine performance.
Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Winter weather can cause damage to your wiper blades, leading to streaks and reduced visibility. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if necessary. This quick and inexpensive task can significantly improve your visibility and safety on the road.
Test the Battery
The fluctuating temperature extremes of winter can strain your car battery. Test its health with a battery load tester, especially if it is approaching the three to five-year mark. If needed, investing in a new battery will ensure reliable starts and prevent the inconvenience of a dead battery.
Inspect Belts
Slush, salt, and sand from winter roads can contaminate your vehicle's serpentine belt, causing it to deteriorate or squeal. Check for any cracks or missing segments on the belt and consider a professional replacement if required.
Perform Light Checks
With longer daylight hours, ensuring your lights are in proper working order is still essential. Check all your vehicle's lights, including turn signals, brake lights, headlights, marker lights, daytime running lights, and license plate bulbs. Replace any bulbs that are not functioning correctly to maintain visibility and avoid potential traffic violations.
Contact Us in Brampton, ON
Taking the time to perform a thorough spring car maintenance checklist is essential for vehicle owners. By addressing these maintenance tasks, you can enhance your safety on the road, prolong the lifespan of your car, and potentially save on future repair costs. So don't delay; get started with your spring car maintenance and enjoy a worry-free driving experience this season! Contact Brennan's Dixie Chrysler in Brampton for more maintenance tips.