How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Spring

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Spring in Ajax, ON

At Village Chrysler, we understand that every season brings unique driving challenges. Winter, in particular, can be the toughest on our vehicles. Icy and salty roads, along with subzero temperatures, can have negative impacts on your car. Here's how to prepare your vehicle for spring in Ajax, Ontario, after the long and difficult winter season.

1. Swap Your Tires

Winter tires are designed using a softer rubber compound ideal for cold, wet, and icy conditions. That rubber can wear down quickly on warmer, drier roads. In spring, ensure you switch out your winter tires to summer or all-season tires before the hot summer roads damage your winter tires. Visit our Service Centre to get your winter tires swapped out by experts.

2. Clean Your Vehicle

During winter, vehicles accumulate salt and grime while driving. Thoroughly cleaning your car is a great way to prepare for spring because it lets unveil and take care of any damage that may have occurred throughout the winter season. This will not only make your car look better, but you'll also be able to spot any problems like rust that may be lying underneath and get it dealt with before it gets any worse.

3. Examine Your Headlights

It's easy to forget how vital good headlights are until you encounter a series of gusty spring storms. Car headlight covers can get easily dinged, foggy, or discoloured in winter, reducing visibility and the effectiveness of your lights. Take a few minutes to examine your headlights and front reflectors, and polish off any scuffs or residue caused by winter weather.

4. Check Your Brakes

It's always a good idea to periodically check your brakes, but it's essential in spring because of the rain. Driving in wet conditions on slick roads can put extra stress on your brakes, so it is necessary to ensure that they are working correctly. If when you press down on the brake pedal, your brakes are pulsating or grinding, you may have to have your brake rotors replaced.

5. Replace Your Wipers

Winter wreaks havoc on wiper blades, so inspect yours regularly before heading out in spring rainstorms. If you notice smearing across your windshield, the blades probably need replacing. Generally, wipers should be replaced every six months, making spring an ideal time.

6. Look for Leaks

After winter storms and flooding, your vehicle may develop leaks. Check the undercarriage, interior flooring, and trunk for any wet spots. If you find a leak in your car, have it fixed right away to prevent major problems like rust, mould, electrical issues, and a flawed fuel system.

7. Replace Your Air Filter

Air filters help keep out harmful dust and debris from your car's engine. The air filter can only keep doing its job if it is clean. When it gets too dirty, the airflow to your engine is restricted, leading to poor performance and even decreased fuel efficiency.

Contact Us

Car maintenance is crucial to prevent mechanical problems from developing. At Village Chrysler, we are happy to discuss the car maintenance and services that your vehicle needs. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment to get your vehicle ready for spring.