Spring is in the air, and if you’re like most Minnesotans, you want to get out there and enjoy nicer weather and sunshine. But spring also brings a list of things that need to get done each spring before you can enjoy the great outdoors. From spring cleaning to planting your garden, there’s just work to be done. One maintenance item many drivers neglect is taking your car in for your spring maintenance check. Winter is harsh on your vehicle so getting these top 7 maintenance checks performed on your car is a good idea each spring.
Tires
Winter is brutal on your tires. From snow & ice to those early spring potholes, your tires can take a beating. You’ll want to make sure your tires are inflated properly, and inspected for tread life. While you’re down there checking tire pressure and inspecting your tread, you’ll want to check your rims for any dents or other damage – all of which can impact the life of your tires. One last check for your tires each spring is to have your mechanic balance and rotate them. Getting your tires checked each spring will ensure a safe drive all year long.
Suspension Maintenance
Winter can also be hard on your car’s suspension. From snow covered roads to bumps in the road, your suspension can take a hit. Signs your suspension needs some attention include drifting to one side when turning corners, continued bouncing after hitting bumps, and difficulty steering. If you notice any of these signs or it’s been a while since your last maintenance appointment, ask your mechanic to inspect your struts and shocks to make sure everything is in working order.
Alignment
Much like your suspension system, your alignment needs some attention after a long winter. Snow can hide many obstacles on the road that can quickly impact your car’s alignment. Signs that your alignment is off include pulling to one side while driving, uneven or rapid tire wear, a crooked steering wheel when you’re driving straight, and squealing tires. Whether you notice these signs or not, it’s always a good idea to have your mechanic check your alignment each spring.
Maintenance for Belts & Hoses
Our bitterly cold temperatures over the winter can be hard on your car’s belts & hoses. These items can crack and tear over the long winter months. Left unchecked, your belts or hoses could break or tear leaving you stranded on the side of the road waiting for a tow. Skip the headache of a breakdown and ask your mechanic to inspect your belts & hoses each spring.
Headlights, taillights, & turn signals
Faulty or cloudy lights on your car’s exterior can lead to safety hazards no matter where you drive. Snow, ice, and salt can cause your lights to yellow and haze over the winter – which at a minimum will impact your night time visibility. Ask your mechanic to refurbish any yellowing headlights or taillights. And while you’re at it, replace any burnt out bulbs to keep you safe all spring and summer long.
Interior comfort Maintenance
No matter what season it is – you’ll want to be comfortable inside your car no matter where you drive. Spring is a good time to replace your cabin air filter (if your car was manufactured after 1999 you have one). Your cabin air filter will keep pollen, mold, and other pollutants out of your car’s interior. While your mechanic is replacing the air filter, you’ll want to ask for an AC output test to make sure your AC is ready to go when those dog days of summer hit.
Maintenance and Fluid Levels
One last thing to ask your mechanic to check and inspect is your fluid levels. After a long winter, your car’s fluid levels could be depleted so make sure you check your coolant, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and in some cases, hydraulic fluid.
While this may feel like a long list of things to do to prepare your car for spring, your mechanic knows what to do if you simply ask for a spring maintenance check. If you’ve been looking for a mechanic, our team is ready to perform your spring maintenance check and get you back to going for that spring drive in no time.