For many San Diegans, spring means weekend road trips, family vacations, spring break trips and camping adventures. Whatever your plans are, chances are you are getting ready to get on the road, however are you confident your car is in shape to get you there safely? Winter’s cold and rainy weather can be hard on your car, and likely showing signs of wear & tear. Here are some car care tips to get your car ready for spring.
Change your oil and oil filter.
Changing your oil and oil filter at the intervals recommended in your vehicle’s owner’s manual is one of the best ways to keep the engine running trouble free. Neglecting to replace engine oil can result in poor engine performance, higher fuel consumption and even severe engine damage.
Check your fluids.
When you change your oil and oil filter, you should also check your fluids. Check your power steering, brake, and transmission fluids; your windshield washer fluid; and your coolant. If the levels are low, top them up, and flush/replace them as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Replace your wiper blades.
If they’re torn or cracked your wiper blades won’t do you much good in the middle of spring showers when visibility is reduced.
Check your battery.
Cold temperatures can do a number on your battery, so now is a good time to have it tested. You should also check to make sure that your battery is securely mounted and that the connections are clean, tight, and corrosion free. If your battery is more than five years old, you should consider having it replaced.
Check your lights.
Check all exterior and interior lighting to identify any problems. When your vehicle’s lighting is defective, other motorists may not get the message that you intend to stop or turn.
Check your belts and hoses.
Cold temperatures can harden and/or damage rubber, so it’s important to check your belts and hoses for damage. Check your hoses for hardening, softening, leaking, cracks, blistering, or other visual damage, and check your belts for looseness, cracks, frays, or glazing.
Check your filters.
Your car has many filters that are important to its longevity and should be replaced regularly. Check your engine air filter, your cabin air filter, and your fuel filter for damage or clogging and replace them if necessary.
Check your tires.
Check the pressure of all your tires (including the spare) monthly, and maintain the optimal pressure recommended in your owner’s manual. Check the tread for uneven or irregular wear and for cuts on the sidewalls.
Make car care a priority this spring to protect yourself and prolong the life of your vehicle! Not comfortable checking your vehicle yourself? Schedule a service appointment at one of our 7 Mossy Nissan locations for a free multi-point inspection.
