Get your car ready for spring driving
Written by: Marion Hanson, Last updated:10th September 2024
The arrival of spring following the long, cold winter is always an exciting time. Drivers all over the country will be looking forward to this time of year as an opportunity to hit the road and enjoy the brighter, warmer weather.
To really make the most of your springtime getaways and days out, it’s a good idea to check that your car is in good condition, so you don’t have to worry about breakdowns or mechanical issues ruining your fun.
Here are some of the best steps you can take to get your vehicle ready for spring driving:
Give it a good clean
The chances are your car has collected a lot of dirt, mud and general grime over the winter months. It’s a good idea to give it a thorough clean before going on any spring drives.
It’s particularly beneficial to clean off road salt, which is corrosive and can cause rust if it’s left on the bodywork. Don’t neglect the undercarriage when cleaning your car, since this area attracts some of the most dirt, but be careful not to use soap or chemicals that could affect mechanical parts.
Check the wiper blades
Wiper blades get a lot of use during the winter but still need to be in good working condition for the rainy spring months.
Firstly, check the wipers to see if they are worn down or damaged to the point that they need replacing. If they’re still usable, give them a good clean so they can be relied on to keep your windscreen clear over the spring months without causing any damage.
Top up your washer fluid
Spring may herald a welcome improvement in the weather, but it can also bring things that make a mess of your windscreen, such as insects and pollen in the air.
Make sure your windscreen washer fluid is topped up so you can keep the glass clear at all times and drive safely. This will also help you keep your vehicle clean so you don’t undo all the hard work of your post-winter car wash.
Check your brakes and tyres
Checking that your brakes work properly and your tyres meet basic safety specifications is important at any time of the year, but it can be particularly crucial after the winter months. Your car’s brakes and tyres probably had to deal with some difficult conditions over the winter, so you want to know they’re still safe and roadworthy.
If you’re concerned that the tread depth on your tyres is too low or your brake pads have worn down, head to a garage to get your car checked as soon as possible.
Have a look at the engine
Mud, leaves and all sorts of other things can gather in a car’s engine during the winter, so take a look under the bonnet to clear out any dirt and debris before spring driving.
This will help you maintain engine health, and also give you a chance to top up your oil, antifreeze and water, if necessary.
If you want to have confidence in your car’s safety and reliability throughout the year, MyService.Expert from Fuelcard Services can help by providing access to more than 4,500 garages nationwide.
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