The Ultimate Spring Car Maintenance Checklist
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Spring cleaning isn't just a time for sprucing up your home, but your car as well. Here's a closer look at how to prepare your vehicle for spring:
Preparing Your Vehicle for Spring: Essential Checks
Tire Inspection and Pressure Check
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your tires. Cold temperatures can cause the pressure to drop and the potholes that develop thanks to a more regular freeze-thaw cycle can eat your tires up. Give your tires a thorough inspection this spring to make sure they're still in good shape and be sure they're filled to their proper levels.
Brake System Evaluation
Check your brake pads and rotors and change/replace them if necessary. Also, be sure to top off your braking fluid.
Battery Health Assessment
You can check your battery yourself with a voltmeter or take it to your local auto service center or parts shop for a (typically) complimentary check. If your battery is reading lower than 12.4 volts, you may need to think about replacing it.
Engine and System Maintenance for Spring
Prep your engine and engine system for warmer weather by considering the following:
- Change the oil and filter
- Check the air filter
- Inspect the exhaust system
Engine Performance Tune-Up
An engine tune-up may consist of changing out the spark plugs, cleaning the fuel system, and assessing ignition timing.
Air Filter Replacement
Replacing your air filter is an important part of your vehicle's engine maintenance. A clean air filter helps your engine run effectively and efficiently. It can also improve fuel economy and reduce vehicle emissions.
Protecting Your Vehicle from Spring Elements
If you live in an area with winter weather, spring doesn't just mark the return of the sun — but the birds too. Bird droppings have the potential to ruin paint jobs if they're not addressed promptly. One way to protect your vehicle from this is to be proactive. Clean and wax your vehicle exterior. Waxing is especially important, as it helps add a layer of protection to your paint job.
Underbody Wash and Inspection
Winter salt and miscellaneous debris can pose a threat to your vehicle's undercarriage. We always suggest conducting an inspection of your vehicle's underbody and checking for any damage. It's also best practice to have the underbody washed.
Windshield Wiper and Fluid Refresh
Rain showers and stormy weather are synonymous with the spring season, so it's important to ensure your windshield wipers are in good condition and your wiper fluid tank is full. When assessing your windshield wipers, don't forget to check any rear window wipers too.
Schedule Professional Spring Car Care at Wrecktify
For more information on spring vehicle maintenance and to schedule an appointment to have your vehicle serviced this year, contact Wrecktify today.
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