Car care is important. By following regular car care inspections, you can help save money in the long run. You may have already noticed, but spring is upon us. From warmer temperatures to blooming flowers, Minnesotans like you are getting out there and enjoying the weather. But before you get too far in planning those backyard BBQs and summer road trips, it may be a good idea to schedule your spring maintenance appointment for your car. Our long and bitterly cold winters can be tough on our cars, which is why having your mechanic take a peek under the hood is always a good idea each spring. If you’re wondering what needs to be checked, we’ve got you covered with our spring car car maintenance checklist.
Tires
Between snow, ice, & salt your tires take a beating over the winter. You’ll want to make sure your tires are properly inflated (this can be a safety hazard if they’re not) and inspect them from tread wear. While you’re down there inspecting the tread, you might as well take a look at your rims and check for any dents or damage. One last thing to check on your tires? You’ll want to take them to your mechanic to get them rotated and balanced. Checking to see if your tires are in good working order for the spring and summer will ensure safe driving and longer tire life.
Suspension
Along with your tires, your suspension can take a hit during winter and early spring. From rough snow-covered roads to those pesky early-spring potholes, your suspension system may be worn out from winter. Some signs that your suspension systems need some attention include continued bouncing after hitting bumps, unusually bumpy rides, difficulty steering, and pulling to one side after turning corners. If you notice any of these signs, or it’s been a while since you’ve asked your mechanic to check your struts and/or shocks, then bringing your car into your mechanic to check your suspension is a good idea.
Alignment
Winter snow hides a variety of obstacles on the road which can quickly impact your vehicle’s alignment. Bad alignment can show up in uneven and rapid tire wear, squealing tires, your steering wheel being crooked when driving straight, and pulling to one side. If you’re noticing any of these signs this spring, it’s a good idea to have your mechanic take a look.
Belts & Hoses
Our bitterly cold temperatures each winter can be damaging to your belts & hoses. They can crack and tear when exposed to the elements. Ask your mechanic to check for any wear, cracks and tears. Left unchecked, belts & hoses can tear and crack while you’re driving leaving you on the side of the road with a breakdown. In this case, it’s better to have them inspected now than paying for a tow later.
Headlights, Taillights & Turn Signals
Headlights, taillights, and turn signals can become a nighttime driving hazard after a long winter. Your headlights and taillights can form a yellowish haze which can hamper your visibility. You’ll want to have these checked and either replaced or refurbished to ensure night driving safety. While you have your mechanic checking those lights, it’s a good idea to check for and replace any burnt out lights to keep you driving safely all spring and summer long.
Interior Cabin Comfort
Your car has been locked up for several months during the winter. Spring is the perfect time to replace your cabin air filter. If your car was made after 1999, then you have one of these. The cabin air filter’s job is to keep pollen, mold, and other pollutants out and keep the interior air of your car fresh and clean. One last interior cabin tip? Ask your mechanic to run an AC output test to ensure your AC is ready to go in the heat of summer.
Fluid levels and Car Care
When was the last time you checked your fluid levels? If it’s been a while – it’s a good idea to ask your mechanic to check your coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid.
Windshield Wipers
Winter weather can dull your wiper blades. Spring is the perfect time to get these replaced so you’re ready for the heavy spring and summer rains.
If you’re ready to ensure your car is spring and summer ready, then a spring maintenance check is just what the doctor ordered. Our team is ready to help. Simply make an appointment and we’ll get you back to safe driving all spring and summer long.