Winter driving can quietly wear your car down—salt buildup, pothole damage, and freezing temperatures all leave their mark. As the weather starts to warm up, spring is the ideal time to check in on your vehicle’s health. A seasonal inspection not only helps catch issues before they become expensive repairs, but it also ensures your car is ready for longer drives, changing road conditions, and rising temperatures ahead. After months of winter strain, a little maintenance now can go a long way in keeping things running smoothly.
Check and Rotate Your Tires
Tires are easy to overlook, but they’re one of the most important parts of spring maintenance. Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, and potholes or curb bumps may have thrown off your alignment or caused internal damage.
Have your tires inspected for:
- Uneven wear
- Cracks or bulges
- Tread depth
- Proper air pressure
A rotation might be all that’s needed to extend their life, but if winter hits them hard, it may be time to replace one or more. Don’t forget to check the spare while you’re at it.
Test Your Battery and Alternator
Car batteries work harder in the cold, and it’s common for them to weaken or die once temperatures start climbing again. If your car hesitates when starting, or if it’s been more than three years since your last battery replacement, now is the time to test it.
The charging system should also be inspected to make sure your alternator and cables are in good condition. Starting issues can sneak up quickly, and nobody wants to get stranded in spring rain—or the summer heat just around the corner.
Inspect the Brakes
Snow, slush, and road salt can lead to corrosion and cause your brake components to wear faster than usual. Spring is a great time to have your brake pads, rotors, and calipers inspected to ensure everything is functioning properly.
Even if your brakes seem fine, catching small issues early—like uneven pad wear or soft pedal feel—can prevent expensive repairs down the line. Don’t wait for grinding or squealing before checking in.
Replace Wipers and Top Off Fluids
Winter can wear down your windshield wipers quickly, especially if they’ve been scraping ice or slush. If they’re streaking, squeaking, or leaving sections of your windshield uncleared, swap them out with a fresh pair.
You should also check and refill essential fluids, including:
- Windshield washer fluid
- Engine oil (or schedule an oil change if you’re due)
- Coolant levels
- Brake fluid
- Power steering and transmission fluid, if accessible
Fresh fluids help your vehicle run cooler and more efficiently—especially important as the temperatures start to rise.
Give Your Suspension and Undercarriage Some Attention
Potholes are one of the biggest offenders during winter and early spring. If your car feels bouncy, pulls to one side, or you hear clunking over bumps, your suspension might have taken a hit. Worn shocks, struts, or control arms affect not only comfort but also safety.
A visual inspection of your undercarriage is also a smart move this time of year. Salt buildup can lead to rust, especially around brake lines, exhaust components, and suspension mounting points. Washing underneath the car helps prevent long-term corrosion.
Clean and Protect Your Vehicle Inside and Out
A spring wash is more than just cosmetic. Salt and grime from winter driving stick to your paint, underbody, and wheel wells. Left alone, they can cause rust and dull your car’s finish. A thorough cleaning, followed by wax or paint sealant, helps protect your car going into the sunny months.
Inside, vacuum the carpets and seats, wipe down surfaces, and replace your cabin air filter for fresher airflow. That filter can trap a lot of winter debris and moisture, and replacing it will help reduce odors and allergens.
Ready to shake off the effects of winter? Bring your car to Nerger’s Auto Express in Bound Brook, NJ, for a full spring maintenance check. From brake inspections to tire rotations, battery testing, and fluid top-offs, we’ll make sure your vehicle is fresh, clean, and ready for the road ahead.