Tips on Preparing Your Car for Spring

Tips on Preparing Your Car for Spring

As we get ready for the warmer weather here in New England, we also need to prepare our vehicles for spring! It is advisable to get your car prepared for spring with quality maintenance and inspection to ensure its road-ready. The low temperatures, ice, and snow of winter may have caused hidden damage to your car that could affect its performance and increase repair costs if left unchecked. Below are some vital tips to help you get your car ready for spring:

Check Your Tires 

While you may want to shop for rain boots and other items to prepare for spring, one of the most important things you should do is ensure your car tires are ready for wet roads. Check for any worn tread on your tires and ensure the tires are replaced if worn. It's also vital to inspect the tires' pressure and ensure they are regulated based on the recommendation from the manufacturer. Underinflated tires may wear out quickly and reduce your car's gas mileage. In contrast, overinflated tires may lead to uneven wear, causing you to replace the tires sooner than expected. As you prepare for spring, it's a great move to also make sure your car tires are in proper alignment for optimal vehicle performance. 

Check Your Brakes 

The effect of salt, slush, and snow may have taken a toll on your car's braking system. Grinding noises and squeaking sounds when stepping on the brakes may signify that you need to check the brakes to guarantee safer driving. 

Replace Your Windshield Wipers 

Another important thing to do when preparing your car for spring is to replace the windshield wipers if needed. Ensure the wipers adequately clean the windshield without leaving streaks. Nobody likes the look of wiper streaks, and they can hinder your vision when driving in rainy conditions. Windshield wipers are a cost-effective way to prepare your car for spring showers!

Change Your Oil 

An oil change is another good way to prepare your vehicle for spring. Thinner oils are typically used during winter because of their low viscosity during cold weather. In warmer weather, thicker oils are preferable. Winter weather may have affected your vehicle's engine, causing dirt to build up on the filter and in your oil. An oil change may improve the car's performance and reduce the chances of a breakdown during spring. 

Clean The Underbody 

While washing and waxing your car to make it shine during spring or summer is a common practice, the underbody is often left out since it goes unseen. It is vital to spray your car's underbody with water to remove the build-up of salts in hidden areas, including crevices, and under the bumper. For a more thorough wash, it is preferable to visit an automatic car wash. 

Check Your Air Conditioning 

It is advisable to check your car's air conditioner to ensure it is in working condition since you'll need it more as the weather gets warmer and warmer. Run the air conditioner for about fifteen minutes when testing its performance. If your air conditioner isn't blowing cool air, you may need to have it serviced.

Contact German AutoSport In Amesbury, Massachusetts!

If you have a German-engineered vehicle that you're looking to keep in top shape this spring, come see us at German AutoSport in Amesbury, Massachusetts! Our team of mechanics have years of experience and expertise to figure out exactly what is wrong with your car and we make sure that your vehicle will get the proper care. Contact us today by calling us at (978) 388-1288, or by filling out the contact form on our website!