Winter’s grip is finally loosening, and while we can all breathe a little easier, it’s time to turn your attention to your ride.
After months of cold, snow, salt, and grime, your car’s been through quite a bit. Spring isn’t just a time for you to shake off the winter blues—it’s also the perfect moment to give your car a little TLC to ensure it’s ready for the warmer months ahead.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your car ready for spring.
In This Post
1. Wash Off That Winter Gunk
First things first, your car’s exterior probably has more road salt and dirt on it than you’d care to admit. Salt can cause rust if left unchecked, so a thorough wash is essential.
Take the time to wash your car from top to bottom, paying extra attention to the undercarriage where salt and debris often build up.
If you can, take it to a professional car wash like the H+H Shine Shop. They provide an undercarriage cleaning option—this will remove any remaining grime that might be stuck in hard-to-reach spots.
Check out all of the different H+H Shine Shop Services here!
2. Check Your Fluids
Cold weather can take a toll on your vehicle’s fluids, especially the engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. When you pop the hood, make sure the oil is at the right level and still in good condition.
If it’s time for an oil change, get it done before hitting the road this spring.
Don’t forget to check your coolant levels and top them off if needed—spring’s warmer temperatures can lead to engine overheating if your cooling system isn’t up to snuff.
Brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid should also be checked and topped off as necessary.
3. Test Your Battery
Winter can be hard on your car’s battery, and if it’s on its last leg, the first warm day of spring could be when it finally gives out.
Inspect the battery for any corrosion on the terminals or signs of wear on the cables. If your battery is more than 3-4 years old or showing any signs of weakness, now might be the time to replace it.
A weak battery can lead to a no-start situation, and that’s not the way you want to kick off the season.
4. Inspect Your Tires
Winter roads can be tough on your tires. As the temperatures rise, it’s time to check your tire pressure and tread depth.
Cold weather can cause air pressure to drop, which affects both safety and fuel efficiency. Check the tire pressure with a gauge, and don’t forget to inspect your tire tread for any signs of uneven wear.
If you’re switching from winter tires to all-seasons or performance tires, now’s the time to make that swap. Keep an eye on any bulges or cuts in the tires too—if you spot any, it’s time for a replacement.
Check out our Tire Wear Blog to learn more about what you should be on the lookout for!
The 3 Types of Tire Wear: Deceptive Sales Tactics or Real Danger?
5. Inspect Your Brakes
Spring is the perfect time to check on your brakes.
The harsh winter conditions might have worn down your brake pads or caused them to become less responsive. Listen for any squeaking, grinding, or vibrations when braking—these are clear signs you should have your brake system inspected.
If your pads or rotors are worn out, replacing them now will ensure you’re stopping safely when you need to.
6. Replace Your Wiper Blades
The warmer months can bring more rain, so don’t wait for a downpour to realize your wiper blades are shot.
Worn wipers can leave streaks or fail to clear the windshield effectively. Check the condition of the blades, and if they’re cracked, torn, or leaving streaks behind, replace them.
Fresh blades make all the difference in your visibility during spring showers.
7. Clean and Condition the Interior
Your car’s interior also deserves some love after months of snow, slush, and sand.
Vacuum the carpets, wipe down the seats, and clean up any lingering messes. Don’t forget to condition the leather or vinyl surfaces to keep them from cracking or drying out.
If you’ve been using a lot of tissues or fast-food bags over the winter, now’s the time to purge your car of those winter remnants.
Let the H+H Shine Shop handle all of this for you with their Whole Shabang full interior express service.
8. Check the Air Conditioning
Spring’s warmer days are a reminder that summer is right around the corner, and with it, the need for working air conditioning.
Test your A/C to ensure it’s blowing cold air, and if it’s not, you might need to have it recharged or inspected. The last thing you want on a 90-degree day is a broken A/C.
9. Plan for Road Trips
Once your car is in peak shape, start thinking about your spring and summer adventures.
Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or just daily commutes, ensure that your car is ready to handle the demands of the road.
Make sure your vehicle’s emergency kit is fully stocked, including items like jumper cables, a flashlight, and first-aid supplies.
If you’re traveling further than usual, it’s always a good idea to let someone know your plans and route.
Wrapping It Up: 9 Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Spring
Spring is a fresh start for both you and your car. By tackling these maintenance tasks, you’ll ensure that your vehicle is in top condition to take on the season’s challenges, from daily commutes to road trips.
At DriveHH, we’re all about keeping you and your car in tip-top shape, so don’t skip these steps! A little preventive care goes a long way toward avoiding costly repairs down the road.
Remember, the longer you put off the basics, the more likely you are to run into issues. Let H+H help you get your car ready for everything spring has to offer. Trust me, it’ll feel like a whole new ride!
