As the cold of the winter thaws, so do our vehicle and its structural components. The Spring is the perfect time to provide your automobile with a little tender love and care so it may achieve peak performance before hitting the highway.
We at Fleet Services and our partners at LeasePlan have come up with a standard Springtime Maintenance Checklist.
Read the details of each maintenance piece below, and, at the bottom of the article, click to download a printable checklist to use yourself when evaluating your own vehicle.
- The Battery
- Cold causes the battery to work particularly hard during start-up, while winter weather compromises battery performances by up to 60 percent. For these reasons, it is a good idea to have your battery tested & inspected sometime during the early spring months.
- Ignition Wiring
- Cold can cause damage to the wires that power the ignition switch. Although you cannot access much of the ignition, the exposed wires can be inspected for any cracking or hardening, as it may cause problems with delivering a spark to the engine.
- Tire Pressure
- Cold weather causes tire pressure to decrease and yield false readings. So, as the weather improves, it is important to check that all the tires--including the spares--are properly inflated and balanced. Check the inside of your car door to determine the proper tire pressure for your tires.
- Belts & hoses
- Our partners at LeasePlan instruct us to, "Inspect and replace worn or cracked belts, as well as hoses that are blistered, brittle or too soft. Belts and hoses older than five years, even if they look intact, might need to be replaced."
- Brake System
- Inspect the fluid level of the master cylinder, brake pedal action, condition of the lines and hoses, and brake assemblies. For specific information on each of these pieces, please Click Here.
- Suspension & Wheel Alignment
- Potholes and imperfections in the tarmac caused by winter conditions can take a toll on your shocks and struts. Inspect your vehicle for damage, leaks and wear. It is also a good idea to have your wheels properly aligned after a season of tough conditions.
- Fluid Levels
- Check all fluids, following the manufacturer guidelines for proper levels. This includes transmission fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze/coolant, and even windshield washer fluid.
- Engine Air Filter
- You have the option of changing our your engine air filter during any routine oil, brake or transmission fuel change. According to LeasePlan, "A clean air filter will ensure your engine is able to breathe properly, maintaining its performance levels."
- Windshield Wipers
- Check for wear and cracks, and replace them if necessary.
To download a printable checklist with these items and space for more items you might want to add, click below! And, as always, buckle up & stay safe!
