Spring Cleaning and Maintenance

Spring is finally here! Warm days, mild nights, gentle breezes. The perfect time to get the family car ready for the summer ahead. Taking a little time now can save some big headaches later.

First, check all the fluids and filters. If it looks dirty, dusty, musty or worn go ahead and replace it. Especially the air filter. If you live in the country or have a lot of trees don't be surprised if it looks like something built a nest in the air filter over the winter. I have seen numerous cars with evidence of small rodents living under the hood. If you see any evidence of this be sure and check any wires around the area. These little critters have a habit of chewing the insulation off of wires.

Also, look at the belts and hoses. If they look worn or cracked or if the hoses feel soft go ahead and change them now. Check your antifreeze level too. Remember, antifreeze is not just to prevent the car from freezing up in the winter, but also helps keep the engine running cool in the summer.

One of the most important items to check now is the tires. If they looked cracked or dry rotted after a long winter they should be replaced beforetaking any long trips. It might also be a good idea to have them rotated now as well. Have your local tire expert check them for any adverse wear or punctures too.

Depending on what part of the country you live in the summer may not be as hard on your car as winter If you are lucky enough to be from the South you know that summer can be a lot worse. Follow these suggestions, have a good preventive maintenance evaluation and hopefully you'll have fewer problems. No matter what season it is car problems are never convenient.

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