Winter is a tough time for a car. Snow, ice, frost, salts and chemicals sprinkled on the roads have a negative impact on the condition of the car. Therefore, it is very important to carry out spring maintenance. It helps to detect and repair damage caused by winter conditions, prevent corrosion, prepare the car for the summer heat, and ensure its smooth operation. Let’s take a look at the main aspects you should pay attention to.
Inspecting and maintaining your tyres
After the winter, it is important to carefully inspect your tyres for damage. According to autocar.co.uk, a study found that 58% of used tyres have defects.
Check the tread depth, which should be in line with the established standards. Pay attention to the uniformity of tyre wear. Check the tyre pressure and bring it to the manufacturer’s recommended level for optimum handling and fuel economy.
Check the condition of the glass and the wiper blades
Good visibility is one of the key factors for safe driving. Check the condition of the windscreen and the wiper blades. Clean glass and efficient wipers will ensure better visibility. A friend of mine didn’t replace the wiper blades on his MG HS in time, and this led to a dangerous situation on the road in the rain. Even the most experienced driver will not be able to react in time to a hazard if they do not have a clear view of the road. In Onlinecarparts opinion checking and maintaining a clean windscreen is extremely important. Don’t neglect regular checks and timely replacement of the wiper blades, as this is a simple and inexpensive way to improve driving comfort and safety significantly.
Check the brake system
Check the condition of the brake discs and pads. Look out for signs of brake pad wear, such as: squeaking or whistling when braking, vibration or pulsation of the brake pedal, increased stopping distance, braking handling problems, brake pad thickness less than 3 mm. Signs such as deep furrows and scratches on the brake discs, overheating and a bluish tint on the disc surface, strong vibration of the steering wheel or brake pedal when depressed, and reduced disc thickness may indicate brake disc wear.
Regular inspection and timely replacement of brake components will help to avoid accidents and ensure safe and comfortable driving.
Checking and changing fluids
Check the level and condition of the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid. If necessary, replace or top up to the correct level. Use the quality fluids recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.
Checking the battery and lighting
After the winter, your vehicle’s battery may be weakened due to low temperatures, increased electrical load, and possible periods of inactivity. Check the battery as well as all lights, including headlights, parking lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
Here are the main signs of a weak battery that indicate it needs to be checked or replaced: slow engine starting, dim headlights and electrical lights, repeated starting problems, and the battery indicator on the dashboard being lit.
To extend the life of your vehicle’s battery, check the battery charge regularly, avoid deep discharges, keep the terminals clean, avoid short trips, and minimize the load on the battery.
Suspension and steering inspection
Check the condition of the shock absorbers, springs, ball joints, tie rods, and other suspension and steering components. Worn or damaged parts must be replaced. The condition of the suspension and steering system directly affects the comfort and safety of driving.
Washing and protecting the bodywork
After the winter, a lot of dirt, salt, and other chemicals that can cause corrosion accumulate on the car body. Therefore, it is important to wash your car thoroughly, paying particular attention to the underbody, wheel arches, and other hard-to-reach areas. After washing, the body can be treated with a protective wax to help preserve the paintwork.
Checking the air conditioning system
Before the warm weather arrives, check the air conditioning system for proper operation. Clean or replace the cabin filters, check the refrigerant level and make sure the system is working properly.
Spring maintenance is the key to the safe and long-term operation of your car. Don’t neglect regular maintenance, contact a professional if necessary, and enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.
