It might sound tedious and expensive, but seasonal car maintenance is highly recommended. This is because extreme changes in the weather can cause lasting damage to your vehicle. As winter fades away, experts from a RAM dealership in Las Cruces, NM say that you need to ensure that your vehicle is road-ready for spring.
Since spring presents new challenges for any driver, here are some helpful tips that would keep their beloved vehicle in shape.
Replace your winter tires
As soon as the first signs of spring come around, you should start replacing your winter tires with a set of all-season or summer tires. This is because winter tires are more flexible than normal ones and will wear out faster if driven on ice-free roads.
Don’t forget to wash your winter tires before storing them away, though. Halite (also known as road salt) is highly corrosive, so any excess salt left on your tire will eventually damage the rims. Store your winter tires in a cool, dry area to keep them ready for the next winter.
Go for a tire rotation and alignment
Since you’re having your tires replaced, you might as well have them rotated and aligned. Rotation is simply switching the back and front tires to ensure the even distribution of weight on the tires’ treadwear. This will effectively extend the lifespan of your tires and improve your gas mileage. Alignment, on the other hand, keeps the suspension in check. Many tire shops and car dealerships offer tire alignments for free, so that’s one cost slashed from your budget.
Get your car washed
If you have driven a lot last winter, there’s a chance that the previously mentioned road salt has accumulated in your undercarriage. Again, halite can cause corrosion if left alone. Choose a car wash with spraying machines that uses enough pressure to remove the halite underneath your vehicle.
Do some interior cleaning
Of course, you shouldn’t neglect your vehicle’s interior. According to a Dodge dealership in El Paso, TX, this is the best time to wash and scrub your carpet and floor mats, throw away any amassed rubbish, vacuum every nook and cranny, and wipe all surface. You might also want to remove your winter gear from the trunk and store them away for the next frosty season.
Get your battery tested
Low temperatures tend to force your car battery to work harder. As the temperature gets warmer, there’s a high chance that you’re left with little battery juice. Avoid the inconvenience of your car stalling in the middle of a drive–have your battery tested and replaced (if necessary) before it’s too late.
Replace your air filter
With spring comes a truckload of potential allergens. Dust and pollen can find its way inside your car cabin. To prevent this from happening, you need to clean or replace your air filters. Not only will this save you from incessant sneezing, it can also ensure that your engine will run more efficiently.
