Spring is upon us, and the time is here to get your car ready for warmer weather and more driving. Harsh winters can take a toll on a vehicle. Essential maintenance now can help prevent major, expensive problems from developing when your time on the road increases in the warmer months. The following tips can help save you time and money in the future.

Wash Your Vehicle Thoroughly

Salt and road debris can accumulate on your car during the winter. Take it to a car wash (or do it yourself), and make sure the undercarriage is washed along with the exterior of the vehicle. Vacuum and clean the interior as well. Salt, mud, and moisture can accumulate on the floorboards during the winter months. You need to keep your vehicle clean to avoid rusting.

Test the Battery

Your car’s battery works harder in frigid temperatures. When winter is over, take it to an auto parts store that offers a free battery inspection to check whether a new one is needed. If your battery is low or older than four years, spring is an excellent time to replace it. 

Top Off the Fluids

Check all your vehicle fluids and fill them up if they are low. Engine oil protects your engine against wear and tear. Brake fluid allows your car to stop more efficiently. Windshield wiper fluid is essential for visibility in all types of driving situations. As temperatures rise, it is even more critical to ensure you have enough engine coolant. 

Replace Your Wipers

Windshield wipers take a beating in the wintertime. If they become frayed or worn, it will reduce visibility during a summer shower and increase your risk of having an accident. Wipers are inexpensive items. It makes sense to replace them routinely as part of your spring vehicle maintenance. 

Inspect the Brakes

This step is vital before a spring or summer road trip. If braking produces a noise, or it has become more difficult to stop your vehicle, there is a good chance you need new brake pads. Take your car to a trusted mechanic for a brake inspection and have the brake pads replaced if they are worn. 

Rotate Your Tires

Spring is the perfect time to inspect your tires for low tread and replace them if necessary. If your tires are still in good condition, have them balanced and rotated. This can ensure your tires wear evenly, extending the life of your tires and making driving safer for you and your family. 

Check Under the Hood

Raise the hood of your vehicle and look carefully for any cracked or damaged hoses or belts. If any are worn down, have them repaired or replaced. This simple step could spare you many headaches down the road. For example, a busted radiator hose could cause your car to overheat and damage your engine. 

Update Your Auto Insurance

It is always a good policy to hope for the best and prepare for the worst. Our knowledgeable agent can help ensure your auto insurance policy provides the protection you need if a road trip leads to an accident.