Spring Vehicle Check
Vehicle Spring Check
New season, new service! Winter is over, and spring has just begun, which means if you haven’t already, that it’s time to do a seasonal check on your car to ensure you travel safely this spring-summer season. Here are some things you should look out for to prepare your car for warmer weather and drives!
Tire Pressure
Since cold air compresses and hot air expands, it’s common for your tires to deflate during winter, with the average tire pressure reducing by .19PSI (Pound-force per square inch) for every 1-degree Celsius drop in temperature. While it’s good to get into the habit of checking your tire pressure every now and then, if you’re unable to, checking on it seasonally would be advisable.
Did you know? To find out what pressure is ideal for your vehicle’s tires, consult your vehicle manual or check the sticker inside the driver’s door frame.
Replenish the Fluids
There are several critical fluids that make your engine work properly: engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, antifreeze, and windshield washer fluid. A cold winter changes the viscosity and efficacy of fluids. Check the fluids and top up as needed. Did you know? Engine oil becomes thicker in colder weather, flowing more slowly through the engine and eating up fuel supply to keep running. The lower the viscosity of your engine oil, the easier it can pump through an engine, increasing fuel efficiency.
Wiper Blades
Excessive use and cold weather can dry out and crack your windshield wiper blades. Replacing front and rear wipers just in time can mean the difference between a clear windshield and a safe drive or obscured vision and a dangerous situation.
Did you know? Most cars don’t require tools to replace wiper blades. Wiper blades have a simple click in design.
Car Battery
Car batteries can undergo more strain in winter than in summer because we rely more on the car’s heating and defrosting system, windshield wipers and headlights. With most batteries functioning optimally at 26.7 degrees Celsius, it’s important to ensure your battery is charged and functioning. On average, car batteries need to be replaced every 4-5 years depending on various factors and usage.
Did you know? Not using your car for prolonged periods can lead to a dead battery. One-hour highway drives should be enough to keep your battery charged.
Staying up to date with regular vehicle maintenance not only reduces the running expenses involved with owning a car but increases your safety on the road.