Winter can be difficult on those of us that have to deal with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. All of those things bring along a huge laundry list full of headaches to deal with, including shoveling, de-icing our walkways, and potentially dealing with any damage it caused to your home. Of course the fun doesn’t end there; signs of winter also include dry skin, extra pounds, and the “winter blues”.

Winter hits hard. Whether it is your home or your body, but what about your car?

Let’s start thinking positive. Spring is on the way! As you fix any winter-related home damage and mentally prepare yourself for warmer weather, here are ways to prepare your car for spring:

What you can do:

  • Keeping the same tires on? Check to make sure the tire pressure is correct. Cold temperatures can really throw off the air and this is bad for traction. Note: You may want to consider a trip to the mechanic to have your tires rotated.
  • Windshield wiper check. Think you hate snow, freezing rain and other precipitation? It’s even harder on your wiper blades. Check them out and replace them if they look worn, squeak, or don’t seem to be getting the job done anymore.
  • Give your air filter a check. If this is clogged your engine is working overtime and let’s face it, we don’t want that overworking. A good rule of thumb is to replace it every 15,000 miles.
  •  No more excuses: clean out the inside of your car. Wash and vacuum the inside of your car to rid it of any salt or whatever else you may have dragged in with your winter boots and coats.

When you should go to a mechanic:

  • Ask your mechanic to look under your car. The salt that stops you from sliding may cause rust, especially on your car’s underbody. First you will want to take it to a car wash with high pressure washers and make sure to choose the “undercarriage” wash. If you notice any rust spots bring it into the body shop.
  • Taking off your winter tires? It’s a good DIY project if you follow your auto manual and practice safety, but a professional can handle it as well. They can also check the air pressure and be sure your all-season tires are ready for a new year.
  • Consider getting your car re-aligned. The potholes and other bumps in the road left behind by winter can really do a number on the alignment with your car.
  • Check your brakes! Notice any strange noises or any issues at all? Bring your car to a mechanic to get it checked out. Your brakes work extra hard in the winter. That may have taken a toll on them.

Of course spring brings its own batch of issues. That sunshine will bring pure joy into our lives, but can be an issue for our cars. Consider giving your car a fresh coat of wax. Consider it a little sunblock for your car.

 

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