The cold of the winter is in the past and getting further behind us. As we leave the snow, sleet, and icy driving conditions, it’s important to do a routine check of your car to ensure it’s ready for the showers of spring and the heat of summer. Mission Auto Repair has compiled a must-do checklist to get your vehicle spring-ready.
Checking Tire Pressure And Traction
Tires are one of the most essential parts of your car, especially when transitioning between seasons. Proper tire traction is critical during a heavy downpour, as it can prevent hydroplaning and potential accidents. After the winter months, your tires may show significant wear. Checking the depth of the tread and ensuring your tires are not balding is crucial for safe driving.
But why does tire pressure matter, and why does it change with the seasons? Tire pressure can fluctuate due to temperature changes. In colder weather, air contracts and may decrease the pressure inside your tires, leading to underinflation. As the temperature rises in spring, the air expands, which can then lead to overinflation if not monitored. Driving on improperly inflated tires can cause uneven wear, reduce traction, and even lead to tire failure.
This is why checking tire pressure is a vital step in preparing your car for spring. Ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure level, which you can find in your owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. Also, as you swap out winter tires for those suitable for warmer weather, it’s an excellent opportunity to realign your tires to ensure even wear and optimal handling.
By maintaining proper tire pressure and traction, you not only ensure a safer driving experience but also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. If you’re unsure about how to check your tire pressure or assess tread depth, our experts at Mission Auto Repair are ready to assist. With our help, you can hit the road this spring with confidence in your car’s performance and safety.
Inspecting Windshield Wipers
Inspecting your windshield wipers is incredibly important, especially with how much use they likely got throughout the winter months. Make sure they’re fully clearing your windshield when you use them and replace them if they aren’t leaving you with a clear, unimpeded view of the road. Additionally, you should make sure that your windshield wiper reservoir is full.
Checking The Health Of Your Battery
Cold weather will strain your battery, so checking it as winter ends is a great idea. Take it to a local auto parts store to ensure it can retain charge, and check for any corrosion around the contacts. If you find any corrosive buildup, clean it thoroughly with a stiff toothbrush and a mixture of baking soda and water.
Cleaning The Underbody
The icy winter roads often require specific road treatments to make driving on them as safe as possible. These treatments often contain salt, sand, and other things to give your tires the best traction possible. While this is vital during winter, leaving the sand and salt on your car could cause other problems.
The materials in these treatments are incredibly harsh on your car’s underbody. If left alone, it can cause long-term damage to your vehicle by causing corrosion and rusting. By cleaning your undercarriage, you cut off this damage before it becomes a problem.
Inspect Your Brakes
The lack of traction during the icy conditions can cause substantial wear and tear to your brakes. Hearing grinding or squeaking as you’re driving are telltale signs that winter may have damaged them a little too much. Checking the brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels is a great way to ensure your brakes won’t give out on you in the middle of heavy rain.
Change Your Cabin Air Filter
For people with allergies, driving during spring can be uncomfortable. Pollen is at an all-time high; if you aren’t careful, it can clog up your cabin air filter. Changing your air filters can make your drive much more comfortable during spring.
Bring Your Car Into Spring
The spring showers, pollen, and the leftover wear and tear from cold weather can all damage your car. Taking action before getting on the road prevents accidents and ensures your vehicle lasts as long as possible. If you need help with spring preparations, look no further than Mission Auto Repair in Winchester, VA! Our expert mechanics can help with any repairs and diagnostics your vehicle may need. Call our office to make your appointment today!