After a harsh winter of snowfall, low temperatures, road salt, and plenty of potholes, it’s no secret that our cars can take on some damage. Spring is a great time to give your vehicle a little love and be sure you’ll be able to get where you need to go come warmer weather.
Levin Tire and Service Center has a few tips for drivers in the Region looking to do a bit of a checkup on their car come springtime. Don’t wait until there’s an issue, take a look at the top ten things you should check on your car this spring!
- Windshield Wipers: Ice, snow, and cold temperatures can really do a number on wiper blades. Be sure to check them for signs of wear and replace them as needed, or every 6 months, to be sure you have the best visibility when driving.
- Tires: Tread depth, inflation, and uneven wear and tear are all reasons for concern. Be sure to inspect tires thoroughly and get them checked by a professional if you have any questions or concerns!
- Brakes: Brake linings, rotors, and drums can take a serious beating during the winter months. Be sure to check them out and get them replaced if any part shows wear.
- Paint: Get your car washed and waxed when winter finally makes an exit! Getting salt and other corrosive materials off the finish can protect it for the future and help keep rust at bay. If you see a spot that concerns you, get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid further chipping.
- Fluids: With the cold that comes along with winter, it’s easy to avoid getting under the hood and checking fluid levels. Spring is the perfect time to check in and make sure they’re all at their proper levels and ready to keep the car moving smoothly. Everything from the transmission fluid to windshield wiper fluid plays its part!
- Belts and Hoses: Have someone with experience check out the belts and hoses on the vehicle and be sure they’re in top shape for the warmer weather. Leaks, wear, and other issues can cause more complicated problems down the road, so getting them taken care of quickly is essential.
- Check on your spare tire, emergency kit, or other extra supplies. It’s easy to use an item and forget to replace it, so take the time to inventory the vehicle and replace any parts that aren’t ready to go.
- Battery: Check the battery connections and be sure your battery is fully charged. If you’ve noticed any issues with starting the car, be sure to have it checked out to avoid being stranded in the future.
- Air Conditioner: While spring may seem too early to be worrying about the air conditioning, you’ll want to know it’s in working order when those hot, humid days of June and July set in! Don’t wait to be sure it’s ready to go.
- Change the Oil: If it hasn’t been changed recently, it’s always a good idea to get the oil changed to avoid any damage under the hood. It may be easy to forget, but regular oil changes are an easy way to prolong the life of your vehicle!
There you have it! As you prepare for spring, don’t forget to give a little extra attention to your vehicle to be sure it’s in the best condition to get you where you need to go!