Spring Car Maintenance Checklist: Get Ready for Warm Weather
Shake off winter’s toll on your vehicle with a spring car maintenance checklist. Learn essential post-winter car care tips. Inspecting your car’s exhaust and undercarriage for winter salt damage is crucial. Post-winter maintenance like thorough washing (including the underbody) helps prevent rust and prepares your vehicle for spring
1. Clean Off Winter Grime
Give your car a deep clean, especially underneath. Road salt and grime can cause corrosion. A full wash and wax will protect the paint and frame. Don’t forget to blast the undercarriage to remove salt deposits – it’s a key step to prevent rust damage
Clean the interior too, as salt and sand from shoes can grind into carpets. A tidy car isn’t just about looks; it preserves value and prevents long-term damage.
2. Check and Swap Tires
If you use winter tires, swap them out for all-season or summer tires once temperatures stay consistently above 7°C (45°F). Inspect tire tread and sidewalls for damage from potholes or ice. Check tire pressure, which fluctuates with temperature – for every 10°C rise, tire pressure can increase ~1 psi
Proper inflation ensures better fuel economy and handling. Also consider a wheel alignment if you’ve hit any big winter potholes, as alignment issues can cause uneven tire wear.
3. Top Off or Replace Fluids
Inspect all fluid levels:
- Engine Oil: If it’s been almost 6 months, a spring oil change is wise (especially if winter trips were short, causing moisture buildup). Fresh oil helps your engine run cooler as days heat up. If you don’t follow manufacturers service schedule.
- Coolant: Ensure your coolant/antifreeze is filled to the proper level. The cooling system works harder in warm weather. Top up with the correct mixture if needed, and consider a flush if it’s overdue.
- Windshield Washer Fluid: You likely used a lot in winter. Refill with a summer formula fluid and test your washer spray.
4. Inspect Belts, Hoses, and Battery
Cold weather can harden rubber components:
- Belts & Hoses: Look for cracks or fraying in serpentine belts and coolant hoses. Temperature swings and cold can weaken them. Soft, bulging hoses or squealing belts should be replaced to avoid breakdowns.
- Battery: Winter is tough on batteries. Check that your battery terminals are clean and corrosion-free. If your starts were sluggish in the cold, consider getting a battery health test. Many batteries that barely survived winter will fail in the first spring heat.
5. Refresh Wiper Blades and Lights
Your wiper blades worked hard clearing snow and frost. Replace wipers in spring if they streak or squeak; a fresh set ensures you’re ready for spring showers. Test all exterior lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals). Winter road spray could have coated them, so clean the lenses for maximum brightness. Replace any burnt-out bulbs – longer daylight in spring doesn’t mean you can ignore a busted headlight!
6. Don’t Forget Brakes and Alignment
Spring is the perfect time to have your brakes inspected. Winter driving through slush and salt can lead to rust on brake components. Listen for any squeaks or grinding which could indicate worn pads. Ensure your parking brake moves freely – salt can make cables stick. Also, if your car pulls to one side, get the alignment checked. Alignments often get knocked out by winter potholes, and proper alignment will protect your tires and improve driveability.
By following this spring car maintenance checklist, you’ll undo winter’s wear and tear. A little preventive care now means safer, trouble-free driving all spring and summer. Your car will thank you with a smoother ride and fewer surprise repairs down the road!
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