7 Tips for Automotive Spring Cleaning
1) Deep Clean Your Vehicle
Though we have had a fairly mild winter, it is still important to thoroughly wash all vehicles now that we have likely seen the last of the season’s wintry weather. The salt used to treat the roads and prevent them from becoming too icy can build up on your vehicle’s undercarriage and paint. This build-up can lead to rust, paint chipping and other damage to your vehicle’s body. Take advantage of the warmer weather and sunshine we have had by giving your car a good wash in order to prevent damage. Don’t forget to pay attention to often neglected areas, such as the undercarriage, wheel wells, and fenders.
2) Check Your Windshield Wiper Blades
Besides the frequency of rain in Elkin and Jonesville, bugs, dirt, and other road debris will cause the rubber on your windshield wiper blades to dry out, become brittle and crack. The past several months have been particularly rainy, which may have also contributed to the deterioration of your wiper blades. All of these factors contribute to reduced visibility and can pose a serious safety hazard. If your current windshield wipers are leaving streaks or making noise, you should replace them immediately.
3) Rotate Your Tires
Your tires are one of the most important components of your vehicle, as they are the only part that makes contact with the road. Have your tires inspected and rotated every 6,000 to 9,000 miles.
The following are some of the benefits of tire rotation:
- Extends the life of the tires
- Keeps the vehicle riding and handling properly
- Properly inflated and rotated tires assist in maintaining maximum fuel efficiency
- We use torque wrenches on all tire rotations installing lug nuts to manufacturers specifications
4) Change Your Vehicle’s Oil and Oil Filter
Oil keeps your engine running newer, longer. Typically, oil and oil filters should be changed every 5,000-7,500 miles, according to the manufacturer's recommendations and driving conditions. At a minimum oil should be changed twice each year. Factors like driving in cold climates, towing a trailer, or aggressive driving, can make it necessary to change your oil more often.
The main purpose of oil is to lubricate. Over time, it gets contaminated, breaks down and is less effective at lubricating. Old oil, low oil pressure and lack of oil can all cause damage to your engine as the moving parts of the engine rub together and wear out.
If you regularly run low on oil, be sure to report it to your mechanic; you may have a leak or may be burning oil.
5) Check and Top Off Fluids
There are numerous fluids in your vehicle besides engine oil. Each one plays a key role in maintaining appropriate temperatures in your engine and ensuring every component functions properly. Fluid levels to check include:
- Coolant
- Transmission Fluid
- Power Steering Fluid
- Brake Fluid
- Windshield Wiper Fluid
6) Check the Condition of Your Brakes
Keeping your vehicle running smoothly is important, but making sure your vehicle can come to a halt safely is vital. Driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type, the quality of brake lining material and the climate can all have an impact on the wear and tear of your brakes. There are several signs to look for that may be indicative of your brakes needing repair including squeaking, pulsating when the brake pedal is used, your car pulling to one side when braking, a brake pedal that feels “mushy,” or constantly needing to add brake fluid.
7) Test Your Vehicle’s Air Conditioning
As spring turns into summer and temperatures continue to rise, it is a good idea to have your vehicle’s a/c inspected. Although the climate control system is primarily used to improve the comfort levels of both drivers and passengers, there are times over the course of the year when maintaining the ideal internal temperature becomes more than a matter of comfort.
Jody’s Automotive specializes in auto repairs for all makes and models, oil changes, and fleet services. Whether your vehicle needs routine maintenance or diagnostics and auto repair, we are here to serve you. Contact us for help with your automotive maintenance in Jonesville and Elkin.