Spring Maintenance Checklist

These are some important tips for getting your vehicle ready for spring.
Posted On May 3, 2022
By Integra Tire Canada

After months of colder weather, you are probably feeling the need to get out and hit the open road on your next trip. Whether you are looking to go for a weekend drive out in the country or are planning a family getaway, here are some things to check before hitting the road.

Tires

As spring has arrived, you should consider changing your tires. Summer and all-season tires are stiffer and built for better handling and performance on roads without snow and ice. When warmer weather arrives, the flexible rubber on winter tires that provides more traction on ice and snow isn’t as effective and will wear down faster in warmer temperatures. When changing your tires, be sure to give your winter tires a good cleaning to remove any salt or debris to avoid any erosion.

After changing your tires, be certain to check your tire pressure and tread depth to ensure that your tires are safe for the road conditions ahead. As temperatures vary a lot throughout early spring, it is a good idea to keep an eye on your tires as these temperatures can cause a fluctuation in your pressure. It is also a good idea to rotate your tires at this point to extend their life even further.

Furthermore, don’t forget to check your spare tire during this process to make sure you are not left stranded on your next road trip.

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Brakes

It is always a good idea to give your brakes a good look after the winter months. Harsh winter conditions can potentially have caused harm to your braking system. This could lead to expensive repairs down the road but, more importantly, a faulty brake system can put your family, others on the road, and yourself in danger.

If you are having your tires switched at the shop, this is a great time to ask your mechanic to take a look at your rotors and pads. They will also be able to easily inspect your brake lines to make sure there aren’t any leaks from the changing temperatures.

Fluids and Wiper Blades

Many people change their oil and oil filters in the spring, but it is also important to check your coolant, power steering, brake, and gearbox fluids, as well as your windshield washer fluid.

After checking your windshield washer fluid levels, it is recommended to check the condition of your wiper blades. Winter conditions can take a toll on your wiper blades. If you are seeing streaks across your windshield after cleaning them off, it is time for a new set.

Most oil change shops will check your fluids during an oil change, and they may even have a promotion for new wiper blades.

Belts, Hoses and Wires

Winter temperatures can cause the rubber of your belts, hoses, and wires to harden, causing unseen damage from inside the vehicle. Spring is an ideal time to take a closer look to see if you have any leaks, cracks, frays, or any other damage. It is always good to have a professional look at these on your next visit to the shop.

Check Your Battery

Winter temperatures can put a strain on your battery. If your vehicle is not turning over as quickly as usual, it is a good idea to have your battery tested at an Integra Tire location. Even if everything appears to be in order, it’s a good idea to inspect your battery cables for cracks and other irregularities, as well as corrosion on the terminals. If your battery is more than five-years-old, it is past time for a replacement.

Create an Emergency Kit for Spring

You’re probably aware of the importance of preparing a winter emergency kit for your vehicle, but what about a spring kit? Warmer temperatures mean you’ll be out driving more, and the spring/summer conditions can still be troubling if you’re stranded waiting for a tow or roadside assistance. The following are some items that should be included in every spring/summer car emergency kit.

  • Water – Hydration is critical to your health, so be sure to keep water in your vehicle at all times.
  • A Small Tool Kit – A small tool kit is one of the items you should always keep in your car. Include an adjustable wrench, duct tape, a few screwdrivers, and pliers—you never know when a simple tool will come in handy to get you back on the road.
  • First Aid Kit- Every emergency kit should include a first aid kit. Ointment, gauze, bandages, adhesive tape, and tweezers should all be included. Include an EpiPen for those with life-threatening allergies.
  • Flashlight- Flashlights are an essential item for all emergencies, and it’s a good idea to keep one in your car. A flashlight with an LED bulb is a good option because the batteries and bulb will last a long time.
  • Phone Charger- Keep a spare charger in the car, but don’t use it every day to charge your phone as this may prematurely wear the cable.
  • Snacks – A car emergency kit should always have some snacks that won’t melt or expire, like granola and dried fruit. Use a recycled container to store things.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest Integra Tire dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.
Resource Tags: #local , brakes , tires , vehicle battery check , vehicle emergency kit , wiper blades
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