Posted February 28, 2015 by Ali's Woodinville
Spring is almost here. Give your car a “spring cleaning” by getting it ready for the season ahead. Below are seven tips to keep your car running and help you avoid unnecessary, costly repairs down the road. After doing such a great job of getting through the tough winter months, your car deserves a few much-needed checks. As usual, it definitely helps to have an auto service shop you really trust to give it a professional look (we love helping our customers with this kind of thing).
Tip One: Have Your Engine and Transmission Checked
Have your engine and your transmission looked over to see if any components need service. Your engine and transmission keep your car running. Routine checks and fluid changes can prevent a costly overhaul down the road.
Tip Two: Have Your Hoses and Belts Inspected
Winter weather can leave you with dry, cracked or worn belts and hoses that need to be serviced or replaced. Replacing damaged belts or hoses before they break is critical.
Tip Three: Check Your Tire Pressure and Tread
Cold winter weather lowers tire pressure. Check your tire pressure and tread regularly to keep your car driving smoothly and safely.
Tip Four: Have Your Cooling System Checked
Warmer weather is on the way, so make sure your cooling system is ready to go. A cooling system repair, flush or fill can improve your car’s performance.
Tip Five: Test Your Wipers, Filters and Caps
With the changing seasons, wiper blades can crack or dry out, so check that they’re working properly. Air filters get dirty and need replacement. Check your radiator cap and gas cap to make sure they’re tightly secured and ready for the new season.
Tip Six: Have Your Brakes Examined
All the wet weather can wear on the brake system and create a safety issue. Have a professional verify that you have the proper fluid level and that your lines, hoses and pads are in good shape. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, so a brake fluid flush on the schedule your owner’s manual recommends can improve the function of your brakes.
Tip Seven: Service Your Spark Plugs and Battery
During the winter, your battery and spark plugs work extra hard and may need to be replaced. Have them tested now, before they quit and cause a costly breakdown.
Get Ready for Spring and Beyond
Get your car ready for the changing weather, and help keep it running smoothly and safely into spring and beyond. Also think about keeping an emergency kit in your vehicle in case of hazardous situations. The kit should include a warm blanket, gloves, flares, flashlights and chains.
Winter also leaves potholes behind, and a hard hit can bend or wear out steering and suspension parts. If your car pulls to one side or clunks over bumps after winter, have the suspension checked. Our free brake check is a good place to start your spring checkup, too.
Call 425-420-1630 or request an appointment for your spring checkup.
