Get Your Car Out Of Its Winter Rut

Now that winter is on the outs (finally!), it’s time to get your vehicle happy and ready to start the summer off right! To follow is a quick list of things that you should be thinking about doing within the next month or two.

Take off those snows!

Although I may be the only person to be excited about that statement, the time is near for the snowies to head back to the garage, basement, shed, etc. Before you do though, it’s best to book an appointment and see how things go. All of the auto experts will tell you to wait until April 15th to take the snow tires off, however, I would feel better saying wait until May 1st. In past years we’ve seen it snow as late as May 24, and you can’t be too safe when it comes to traction on the roads (especially if other drivers have already put on their summer tires!).

Get a Tune Up

The winter is a hard time for cars. Freezing conditions, salt, slush and snow (among other things) make life extra hard for your car, and don’t let up for about 4 months! Give your car a tune up (oil change, check fluids, tire pressure, etc.) to get your car happy and healthy for the coming months.

Check your Alignment

After the craziness of winter comes pothole season. All of the snow, slush and salt that we talked about making things hard for your car affects our roads too! Beware that there are going to be some MAJOR potholes out there, and practice your dodging techniques. If perhaps you aren’t so lucky and hit a pot hole or two, be sure to check your alignment and have it adjusted if needed. While not overly expensive, adjusting your alignment will ensure that your tires are wearing properly, which allows them to last even longer!

Give the Car a Good Wash

If your car is anything like my old college beater, you’re proud it made it through one more winter! Reward your baby by giving it a healthy spring cleaning, including a wash, wax, and full interior clean. Not only will your car appreciate it, but you’ll be that much happier to drive it knowing that it’s spotless inside and out!

Remember, each year the time to do these things changes. While you may be taking your snows off April 1 this year, you may not get so lucky next year. Take into account the weather conditions before you schedule anything.