What kind of maintenance should be performed on your vehicle in the spring when winter is over?

Spring is a great time to give your vehicle some extra attention after the harsh winter months. Here’s a breakdown of essential maintenance tasks:  

Tires:

• Swap Tires: If you used winter tires, now’s the time to switch back to all-season or summer tires. Winter tires are designed for cold temperatures and can wear down faster in warmer weather.  
• Tire Rotation: Even with all-season tires, rotate them to ensure even wear. This can extend their lifespan and improve performance. Most manufacturers recommend rotation every 6,000 to 8,000 miles.  
• Tire Pressure: With rising temperatures, tire pressure can increase. Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it to the recommended level (usually found on a sticker inside your driver’s side door or in your owner’s manual). Proper inflation improves handling, braking, and fuel efficiency.  
• Tire Tread and Condition: Inspect your tires for any signs of damage like cuts, bulges, or uneven wear. Check the tread depth to ensure you have sufficient grip for wet spring roads. A simple test involves inserting a quarter upside down into the tread – if you can see all of Washington’s head, it might be time for new tires.  
• Wheel Alignment: Winter potholes and rough roads can knock your wheels out of alignment. If your car pulls to one side or your steering wheel isn’t centered, get an alignment to prevent uneven tire wear and ensure proper handling.  

Brakes:

• Inspect Brakes: Winter conditions can be tough on your brakes. Listen for any unusual noises like squealing or grinding when braking. Have your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid checked by a professional.  
• Brake Fluid: Check the level and condition of your brake fluid. Low or contaminated fluid can affect braking performance.  

Fluids:

• Engine Oil: Spring is an ideal time for an oil change, especially after the colder winter months. Cold temperatures can make oil thicken and work less effectively. Check your oil level and follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for oil change intervals.  
• Coolant: Inspect your coolant level and the condition of the hoses. Ensure there are no leaks or cracks. Have your coolant flushed and replaced if it’s old or low. Test the thermostat to ensure the cooling system is functioning correctly as warmer weather approaches.  
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Refill your windshield washer fluid, and consider switching to a summer blend if you used a winter-specific fluid.
• Other Fluids: Check levels of transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid, and top off if necessary. On 4WD and AWD vehicles, check differential and transfer case fluids.

Wiper Blades:

• Inspect and Replace: Winter ice, snow, and salt can damage your wiper blades. Check them for cracks, tears, or streaking. Replace them if they are not cleaning your windshield effectively, as spring often brings rain.  
• Check Washer Fluid Nozzles: Ensure they are not clogged and are spraying properly.

Filters:

• Engine Air Filter: Check your engine air filter and replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter improves engine efficiency and performance.  
• Cabin Air Filter: Replace your cabin air filter to ensure fresh and clean air inside your vehicle, especially with increased pollen in the spring. A clogged cabin air filter can also impact the efficiency of your air conditioning system.  

Battery:

• Battery Inspection: Cold weather can strain your car battery. Check the battery terminals for corrosion and clean them if necessary. Ensure the connections are tight. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of weakness (like slow starts), consider having it tested or replaced before the summer heat puts additional stress on it.  

Air Conditioning:

• Test Your A/C: Before the hot summer months arrive, turn on your air conditioning to ensure it’s working correctly. Check if the air is blowing cold. If not, it might need to be recharged or have other issues addressed.

Exterior:

• Wash and Wax: Winter salt and grime can damage your vehicle’s paint and undercarriage. Give your car a thorough wash, paying attention to the undercarriage and wheel wells to remove any salt buildup. Consider waxing your car to protect the paint from the summer sun.  
• Inspect for Rust: Check for any signs of rust, especially on the undercarriage, around the wheel wells, and bumpers, as winter conditions can accelerate rust formation. Treat any rust spots to prevent further damage.  
• Check Lights: Ensure all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals, are working correctly. Clean the lenses to ensure optimal visibility.

Interior:

• Deep Clean: Spring is a great time for a thorough interior cleaning. Vacuum carpets and upholstery, wipe down surfaces, and clean windows. Consider reconditioning leather surfaces.  

Belts and Hoses:

• Inspect: Check belts for cracks, fraying, or looseness. Inspect hoses for leaks, cracks, or swelling, especially around clamps. Replace any damaged belts or hoses.

Under the Hood (General):

• Check for Leaks: After the winter, check under your vehicle for any signs of fluid leaks.

By addressing these maintenance items in the spring, you can ensure your vehicle is in good condition for the warmer months ahead, improve its performance and safety, and potentially prevent more costly repairs down the road. Give our Littleton Chevrolet Service Team a call at 603.444.1999 to schedule an appointment to allow the team to review the health of your vehicle. We look forward in working with you and having you as our CUSTOMER FOR LIFE. #ExperienceTheDifference

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