Understanding How Engines Work: My Automotive Blog

As spring approaches, your attention should turn to getting your car ready for the season. Spring is a chance for you to spend more time on the road and after a harsh winter, your car needs a bit of love before it is ready for travelling. Here are some ways you can start preparing your car now.  

Wash the car. Throughout the winter months, your car likely accumulated salt and sand on its surface and underbelly. Both substances can be damaging to the finish on your car. Be sure to protect your car's finish with wax after cleaning it.  

Change the windshield wipers. Your wipers have spent the last few months working overtime. If you live in a particularly snowy or rainy climate, they are likely worn from the extra duty. Changing them out now helps you to avoid being caught without ample protection during a spring shower.  

Check your tires. Chances are, your tires have lost some pressure and might be out of alignment due to the special road conditions that occur in winter. Depending on the condition of the tires, it might also be time to have them rotated.  

Assess your battery. The cold weather can be a drain on your battery. The connections could also be wet, which could mean corrosion that impacts how efficiently the battery operates. After having your battery professionally tested, you might find it is time for a new one.  

Flush the radiator. Over time, rust deposits and other contaminants can build up in your radiator. If you do not take action, the debris could end up in your engine and cause failure. When flushing your radiator, you have to completely empty it and use a flushing product to clear the debris.  

Check the fluids. Due to the increased wear and tear on your car because of the winter weather, fluids that are vital to your car's operations empty quicker. If you find that any of the fluids are low after an assessment, fill them up.  

Click for more info or talk to an auto repair professional about other steps you can take to prepare your car for the spring. There are other steps that can be taken that depend largely on the make and model of your car. The pro can even check your car to determine if there is an undetected issue that needs to be cared for before it worsens and leads to a more expensive repair.