Flowers bloom, bees are buzzing, springtime has arrived! Your house isn’t the only thing that deserves some spring-cleaning; your car should receive some too. Winter’s cold temperatures and harsh icy conditions can wreak havoc on your car. Because of this, you should always do a little self-maintenance when the weather gets a bit nicer. Below you will find seven tips and tricks for spring automotive maintenance.
Spring Automotive Maintenance Checklist
1. Check your lighting.
This one is fairly simple; check all exterior and interior lighting to identify any problems. You need to make sure that all your external lights are working properly. If your turn or brake lights don’t work it could be rather disastrous.
2. Check your filters.
Filters help make your car last longer, and you should regularly change them. Check your engine air filter, your cabin air filter, and your fuel filter to see if they’re in good condition. If not you should change them as soon as possible.
3. Check your belts and hoses.
The cold temperatures of winter can harden and damage rubber, so it’s important to check your belts and hoses. When checking your hose you should look for:
- Hardening
- Softening
- Leaking
- Cracks
- Blisters
When checking your belt you should look for:
- Looseness
- Cracks
- Frays
- Glazing
4. Replace Windshield Wipers.
“April showers bring May flowers” spring is notorious for its heavy rainstorms; if your windshield wipers are damaged they’re not going to be very useful during a storm.
5. Check your tires.
Your tires are one of the most important parts of your car. They are the only point of contact your car has with the ground, and you should take proper care of them. Make sure to check the pressure in each tire so it’s PSI is in tune with what your owner’s manual says. Make sure to also check for tearing and wear, and replace any tires that are damaged.
6. Change your oil.
Your oil being fresh is a key part of making sure your car lasts longer. It keeps your engine running without a hitch and efficiently. Not only that but it helps cut down on fuel usage as well. Your vehicle’s owner’s manual should have instructions on the intervals to change your oil.
7. Check your fluids.
When you change your oil you should also check all the other fluids your car uses. Check the following fluids and make sure there is a proper amount:
- Power Steering Fluid
- Brake Fluid
- Transmission Fluid
- Windshield Washer Fluid
- Coolant
If the levels are low, top them up and flush/replace them as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Make spring automotive maintenance a part of your car-cleaning routine to ensure the longevity of your car! If you have any trouble with these tasks you can contact A Plus Transmission at 810.229.7878 or visit us at 4355 S. Old US Hwy 23 in Brighton, Michigan. Be sure to check our special deals before we stop down.
To schedule an appointment for a Spring Maintenance Check, click below: