Even though it might not feel like it quite yet, the calendar says it's officially Spring. What better way to prepare for that Spring weather (when it finally gets here) than to do some maintenance on your car? This article comes from Angie's List.
Maintenance Tips For Spring Driving
First, make sure your exterior gets a good cleaning. Be especially careful that the undercarriage is washed clear of corrosive road salt. Then, give your car’s systems a thorough review, or take your vehicle to a reliable auto service shop, like All Tech Automotive for a spring checkup.
Here are things a checkup should include, according to auto service pros who are highly rated by consumers:
Tires
Check the pressure on all four and the spare. Make sure tires have sufficient tread for safe travel: Insert a quarter into the tread of a tire that’s not warm from recent driving. Put the quarter upside down so the top of George Washington’s head is in the tread. If you can see the top of his head, the tread is too worn. Or, with newer tires, it’s time to replace when flat rubber bars, perpendicular to the tread, begin to appear. If tires have sufficient tread, but it’s been 5,000 or more miles since they were rotated, get it done to ensure even wear. Tire rotation can cost around $20, though it’s sometimes included in an oil change. The price for both services can range from $25 to $60.
Brakes
Winter takes its toll on your brakes, and your safety depends on them being in good shape, so have a technician check the pads and rotors.
Alignment and suspension
In addition to turning roads into obstacle courses, potholes can damage your car’s alignment and suspension. If the steering wheel vibrates or the vehicle pulls to one side, that’s a sign of possible alignment problems.
Fluids and more
In addition to checking window washing, power steering, brake and cooling system fluids, determine if your car is due for an oil change. Experts say oil should be changed about every 5,000 miles. It’s a good idea to see if it’s time to have your transmission fluid flushed; it’s generally recommended at 20,000 to 50,000 miles. Flushing costs $100 to $200 and pros say drivers who neglect this maintenance put themselves at risk for paying thousands of dollars to repair or replace the transmission. Also, a spring checkup is an ideal time to check lights, belts, and windshield wipers.
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