Spring Maintenance: Get Your Vehicle Ready for the Road
Winter can take a toll on your vehicle, impacting essential components like the battery, fluids, tires, brakes, and windshield wipers. Just as you prepare your car for colder months, spring maintenance is crucial to keep it running smoothly. By addressing minor issues early, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy spring adventures like road trips, graduations, and Mother’s Day visits without worry.
Our ASE-certified technicians at Fifth Gear Automotive have put together a Spring Vehicle Maintenance Checklist to help keep your car in top condition after winter’s wear and tear.
Spring Car Maintenance
Spring Essential Car Maintenance Checklist
1. Check and Top Off Fluids
Cold weather can cause engine fluids like oil, antifreeze, and transmission fluid to thicken, affecting engine performance.
Tip: Check all essential fluids, including coolant, brake, transmission, and power steering fluids, and top them off as needed. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for specifications.
2. Test Your Battery
Cold temperatures reduce battery life, making it harder to start your car.
Tip: Test your battery’s charge and clean any corrosion from the terminals. If your battery is over three years old, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected failures.
3. Inspect Windshield Wipers & Washer Fluid
Ice, snow, and road salt can wear out wiper blades, reducing visibility.
Tip: Replace worn-out wiper blades and ensure washer fluid is full. Use a high-quality fluid to maintain clear visibility in spring showers.
4. Check Your Brakes
Cold weather can wear down brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid.
Tip: Inspect brake pads and rotors for wear and listen for squeaking or grinding sounds. If you notice reduced stopping power, schedule a brake service.
5. Inspect Tires & Adjust Pressure
Cold air causes tire pressure to drop, leading to uneven wear and reduced fuel efficiency.
Tip: Check tire pressure and adjust to manufacturer recommendations. Inspect tread depth and rotate your tires if needed. Consider an alignment check to improve handling.
30-60-90 Vehicle Mile Maintenance Guide
Regular maintenance at key mileage intervals helps prevent unexpected breakdowns. Here’s what to check at each milestone:
30K miles: Inspect fluids, brakes, and air filters.
60K miles: Service the battery, replace brake pads, and change transmission fluid.
90K miles: Replace spark plugs, timing belts, and coolant.
Schedule Your Spring Auto Maintenance with Fifth Gear Automotive
Taking the time to ensure your vehicle is in top shape prevents costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Not sure where to start? Visit any of our Fifth Gear Automotive locations, including our newly opened Frisco and Castle Hills shops. Our ASE-certified technicians will perform a thorough maintenance check, ensuring your car is ready for spring.
Stay informed about vehicle safety standards and recalls by visiting the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety page.
Trust a reliable auto repair shop – trust Fifth Gear Automotive!
