spring maintenance

 

Now is a great time for spring maintenance for your vehicle. After a long, cold winter, your vehicle will need some TLC. This will help ensure it is still running efficiently. It will also help your vehicle to be efficient and reliable when you drive. The winter is hard on your car, so it is likely showing some signs of wear and tear. Spring is the perfect time to bring your car in for a full inspection to identify any minor problems, before they become major ones.

Change the oil

Changing your oil and oil filter at the intervals recommended is important. Check in your vehicle’s owner’s manual to keep the engine running trouble free. Neglecting to replace engine oil can result in poor engine performance, higher fuel consumption and even severe engine damage.

When changing the oil and oil filter, also check the other fluids. Check your power steering, brake, and transmission fluids. Also check the windshield washer fluid and your coolant. If the levels are low, top them up, and flush and replace them as recommended in your owner’s manual. Keep in mind that your power steering, brake and coolant systems are closed. Any low fluid levels may indicate a leak.

Wiper blades

If they’re torn or cracked your wiper blades won’t do you much good in the middle of unrelenting spring showers when visibility is reduced. If you are not sure how to replace the windshield wipers, contact us. We can schedule an appointment to have them inspected and changed.

 

The battery

Cold temperatures can do a number on your battery, so now is a good time to have it tested. You should also check to make sure that your battery is securely mounted and that the connections are clean, tight, and corrosion free. If your battery is more than five years old, you should consider having it replaced.

Inspect the windshield

Sand and rocks are used on icy roads. This means motorists often end up with chips and cracks in their windshields. Although these may not seem like a big deal, any damage to your windshield can decrease the overall effectiveness of airbags, seatbelts, roof stability, and your personal safety in the event of an accident. If your windshield has a crack, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced immediately.

Another spring maintenance tip is to check all exterior and interior lighting to identify any problems. When your vehicle’s lighting is defective, other motorists may not get the message that you intend to stop or turn.