Spring is coming ~ it’s in the air! Get ready for those upcoming road trips and warmer weather by following some of our Spring Car Care Tips.
TireSouth would love the opportunity to serve you so stop in any of our five (soon to be six) Atlanta area locations for more information on any of these services. We have the friendliest team in the business; we are here to help!
Be Prepared for Spring:
1. Check Tire Pressure and Consider Swapping Tires
Temperature changes make your tire pressures fluctuate. Now that the cold has finally left us and temperatures are rising, check your tires and set them to the appropriate pressure. If you put on winter tires, now is the time to switch back to all-season or Spring/Summer set. All of this will lower your fuel consumption, improve mileage, and help your tires last longer.
2. Wiper Blades
As spring starts and temperatures warm up, check your wiper blades for any signs of cracking or wear. The wiper itself could wear dramatically over the winter due to ice buildup or other issues on your windshield. In most parts of the country, you’ll need those wipers for spring rains, so be sure they’re in good working order after winter comes and goes. We recommend changing the blades every six months to a year, depending on use and weather.
This is also a good tip for those of us in the Atlanta climate. Direct sunlight tends to oxidize and deteriorate the rubber in wipers. Even if you haven’t had much rain or bad weather, wipers sitting out in the hot sun will eventually fall apart. Spring is a good time to check them no matter where you live.
3. Check Alignment and Suspension
Winter is known for being harsh on roads, which can be harsh on your vehicle. If you find yourself frequently traversing roads with huge potholes or rocks that have emerged from the asphalt, it could ruin your car’s alignment or damage suspension components. Our advice: Stop by and see us for a quick suspension and alignment check to make sure nothing is too far outside the manufacturer’s specifications.
A sure sign that you may need an alignment is if your steering wheel isn’t centered or the car doesn’t track straight. Also, your shocks or struts may need attention if you notice that the vehicle feels like it has a loose or overly soft ride with an extra rebound when going over bumps.
4. Check the Filters
Spring is also known for pollen and allergies. You can keep them out or minimize their presence in the cabin by replacing the filter in your climate control system. Most manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter every 30,000 miles.
And just as you need to breathe clean air, so does your car’s engine. Spring is a good time to check the air filter to ensure that the old one hasn’t been clogged by dirt or other impurities. A filter contaminated by oil or other fluids can also be a sign of larger engine problems.
5. Get your Battery Tested.
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.
6. Check your oil and windshield wiper fluid.
Now is the time to check your oil level and mileage to decide on your next oil change. It’s also a good time to check windshield wiper fluid and potentially move to a summer solution (often slightly less expensive than winter blends) by replacing the filter in your climate control system. Most manufacturers recommend changing the cabin air filter every 30,000 miles.
Let us handle it all for you!
Bring it by TireSouth, and we’ll go over the best option for you and your vehicle! We have multiple locations throughout the Metro Atlanta area and have been doing vehicle and tire maintenance for over 12 years. We also have a complete selection of tires, wheels, lifts, lighting, and accessories, and we even offer financing and nationwide shipping. Visit one of our tire centers in McDonough, Atlanta, or Covington, Jonesboro, or Riverdale, GA.
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Sources:
- https://www.becarcareaware.ca/spring-car-maintenance-tips/
- https://www.ravenelford.com/spring-car-care-tips.htm
- https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/6-simple-spring-car-care-tips-248694