Spring is in the air, and you're ready to put some miles on your coupe. But before scheduling a weekend road trip, take some time to get your car in good working order. After a long, cold, snowy winter, your vehicle is probably feeling some negative effects of the season. While your car might be due for some regular maintenance anyways, the start of the new season is the perfect time to ensure it is in top shape. Some tasks, such as thoroughly removing salt from the exterior, you can do on your own. But others require the assistance of a knowledgeable mechanic.
Removing Residual Salt Helps Ensure No Corrosion
It's no secret that driving down the road after a winter storm leaves your car grimy and gritty. But what you might not realize is that in addition to causing an eyesore, the salt that accumulates on and beneath your car can cause problems. Salt used to cover the roads is highly corrosive. If it's not washed off at the end of the winter season, it can easily destroy your car's paint. While you can take care of washing the top part of the car yourself, you'll need to visit a car wash to clean the car's underbody.
Now Is the Perfect Time to Rotate Your Tires
Potholes tend to develop during the winter. If you run over them regularly with your car, it can have a negative effect on the tires and the alignment. Be sure to have the alignment inspected by your mechanic when spring arrives, especially if you notice problems like your car pulling to one side, the steering wheel failing to line up straight when you park, and the steering wheel vibrating. The tires should also be checked to make sure they are not worn excessively or unevenly. When you have the alignment checked, your mechanic can evaluate the condition of the tires, too.
When Should I Check My Battery Levels?
Another important component to check in the spring is your car battery. A battery will generally last between three and five years. But extreme temperatures - both hot and cold - can significantly shorten its lifespan. Therefore, your car's battery should be tested to see how much life it has left. In addition to leaving you without a working car, a battery that is too low on energy can become damaged and in turn, cause corrosion.
The Fluids Should Be Topped Off
If you haven't had an oil change since the fall, the springtime is a good time to have the oil revisited. Even if your car generally goes for a longer period of time in between oil changes (about 5,000 miles), it might need to have the oil changed to every 3,000 miles after winter. If you tend to not drive your car much during the winter, it's a good idea to have the oil flushed in the spring. Other fluids should be checked in the spring too, such as the coolant, windshield, and wiper fluids.
You might feel that you suffer during winter, but it's also a tough time for your car. Therefore, when spring arrives, your car deserves special attention. Spring is a great time to make sure nothing is rusted and all of your car's systems are working smoothly. If you have questions about springtime car maintenance or you want to schedule an appointment for service, don't hesitate to contact us. Our service department will gladly accommodate your needs and get your car back into top shape as quickly as they can.
Categories:
Maintenance
