With winter safely in the rear-view mirror, it is time to shake the winter off your vehicle. We had some snow this year so here are some post-winter tips.
- Listen: When you open the windows for that fresh spring air, listen for noises while driving that may not have been there before.
- Inspect Underneath: Have the undercarriage checked for damage from piled snow, potholes, sliding into curbs etc. Even the smallest bumps can cause damage to the suspension and lower body parts under the vehicle.
- Inspect Tires: Those winter road hazards could cause impact breaks or gouges to the sidewall and possibly the tread of tires. Tire pressures tend to drop in the cold winter months, so adjust the pressure for spring weather
- Check the Wiper System: Check the wiper blades. If the windshield is not clear in 5 swipes, replace them. Check the spray of the washers, and adjust, or replace if they do not work properly.
- Check the Fluids: Check and top off all fluids including oil, washer solvent and coolant. Make sure to use the proper fluids when needed.
- Check the Electrical System: The cold weather can deteriorate a battery’s condition quickly. Today’s vehicles require large amounts of electrical power. Have your battery and charging system checked. Check all the exterior lights for proper operation.
- Clean Up: Give your vehicle a thorough wash to remove salt, dirt and winter grime that accumulated during winter driving. Spray the undercarriage with a garden hose or through a car wash. This will help reduce future rust issues. Vacuum and clean the interior, the same winter grime outside of the vehicle ends up inside on the carpet.
- Maintenance: Consult your repair professional or your owner’s manual and have your factory scheduled maintenance performed. Your technician can solve the small issues now to prevent bigger problems later.
By following these steps, you can shake the winter off your vehicle and be ready for smooth, safe springtime cruising.
