Spring Car Care Checklist

by | Jun 23, 2022 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

After a harsh Minnesota winter your care could use a little attention to help prepare it for the warmer months ahead. Here are 10 items to check to ensure your car is ready to hit the road in good shape this spring.

1. Wash and Wax
When washing you car pay particular attention to the underside and wheel wells where grime and salt accumulates. A power washer can help wash away the mud and debris. Apply a cleaner wax to restore and protect the paint.

2. Change the oil and your oil filter
Frequent trips during subzero weather can put extra demands on your engine oil. The same is true with hot weather. Changing the oil and filter at the recommended interval is one of the most important maintenance tasks you can perform. Remember to check your oil dipstick at regular intervals and add oil if necessary.

3. Replace the Transmission Fluid
Your car’s transmission operates under an extreme range of conditions that can wear out the transmission fluid. Dirty and contaminated fluid can cause erratic shifting, excessive chatter, and premature wear. Have the transmission fluid changed when necessary or as recommended by your car’s service schedule.

4. Service the Cooling System
Cooling system failure is the number one cause of engine-related breakdowns. Over time, engine coolant loses its protective and heat-absorbing properties. This can result in corrosion engine overheating. The coolant mixture should be replaced according to the recommendations in your owner’s manual. The condition of the cooling system hoses, and engine drive belts should also be checked for damage.

5. Check the braking system
Brake fluid can absorb moisture, leading to corrosion inside your braking system, which can lead to damage and potential brake failure. Check the owner’s manual and have the brake fluid changed when recommended. If your brake pads are squealing or making grinding noises, they could be excessively worn and should be replaced.

6. Check the AC
Before the hot weather arrives, run the air conditioner to ensure it is blowing cold air. There’s nothing more unpleasant than discovering your AC is not working when you’ve parked outside on the first hot day of the season.

7. Check the Tires
Perform a visual inspection for good tread depth and any tire damage, and have their balance checked. Check the air pressure in each tire and inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

8. Check the battery
A cold winter can be tough on your battery, especially if it’s a few years old. Running the air conditioning in the heat can put a major load on it. Have Parkway Autocare check the condition of your battery, along with the rest of your charging system.

9. Replace the Wiper Blades
Frequent running of the wipers to clean off winter grime can quickly wear down your wiper blades. If your wipers are not cleaning the windshield, replacing the blades is a simple DIY project you can do yourself.

10. Check the lights
Lights ensure that you can see and be seen. Here are the lights you’ll want to check:

  • Headlights
  • Taillights
  • Brake lights
  • Turn signals
  • Backup lights
  • Fog lights (when equipped)