I love spring. Here in the Midwest, it’s been a while since I’ve really seen the sun. The days are getting longer, the air is warming up, and the trees are starting to come back to life. As many of us start our spring cleaning, let’s make sure we don’t forget one important area: our vehicles! With each changing season, our vehicles have different needs. Here are five ways to spruce up your vehicle and get it ready for the spring:
1. Wash your car.
Winter weather can really do a number on your vehicle. All of that salt and grime can damage your vehicle’s finish, so it’s important to wash it all away. Take some time to do a deep cleaning of your vehicle (inside and out!). Make sure to clean and sanitize areas you touch often, like the steering wheel, door handles, and display buttons.
2. Get your vehicle serviced.
You should be keeping up with your vehicle’s maintenance regularly and as recommended in the owner’s manual for your vehicle. You may need an oil change, tire rotation, and new air filter, depending on your specific vehicle.
3. Check your windshield wiper blades.
All of that snow and ice can be tough on your wiper blades. Now that the weather is getting warmer and spring is here, we’re likely to start seeing a lot more rain. Your wiper blades need to be in tip-top condition for those April showers, so it may be time to purchase a new set! While you’re at it, make sure you check you wiper fluid levels.
4. Update your emergency gear.
If you live somewhere with snow and ice, you’ve hopefully stored some emergency items in your vehicle such as a snow shovel and road salt, which you probably won’t need in the warmer months. If you have snacks stored in your vehicle, check the expiration dates! Here are a few emergency items to consider keeping on-hand in the spring:
- Blankets (it still gets cold at night!)
- High-calorie, non-perishable snacks
- Bottled water
- First aid kit
- Phone charger and portable backup battery (make sure the backup battery stays charged, too!)
- Reflectors and road flares
- Flashlights (real ones, not just the one on your smart phone)
5. Check your tires.
If you’ve been using snow tires, it’s about time to switch them out for regular tires. Make sure your tires are all properly inflated and in good condition.
One of the more unfortunate parts of spring means the inevitability of potholes. Sometimes hitting a pothole is unavoidable, which is not good news for your tires. Keep an eye out for potholes, and if you do happen to hit one, check your tires to make sure there’s no permanent damage.
Spring is here and we hope you keep our tips in mind before you hit the road! You should also consider brushing up on your defensive driving skills by completing one of our online courses! Please check out our website to see what courses we offer in your state!
I love spring. Here in the Midwest, it’s been a while since I’ve really seen the sun. The days are getting longer, the air is warming up, and the trees are starting to come back to life. As many of us start our spring cleaning, let’s make sure we don’t forget one important area: our vehicles! With each changing season, our vehicles have different needs. Here are five ways to spruce up your vehicle and get it ready for the spring: