Spring is slowly but surely starting. You can only find snow in mountainous areas, and when it comes to roads, you don't have to wait for ice almost anywhere. And if you also look at the temperatures, it is clear that they are rising. And this is clear information that only confirms that spring is coming unstoppably. For you motorists, this also means one duty, which is to prepare the car for this period. What to do and what not to forget?
Changing tires as a basis
The deadline for which you do not have to have winter tires is the first of April. On this day, you can already change them to summer tires. This is because, due to the higher temperatures, they will also offer better properties in terms of grip and holding the track. So let's not forget that winter tires skid more in high temperatures. This is also the reason why you should definitely not underestimate this step of preparing your car for spring and devote enough time to it.
Check and charge the battery
During the winter months, it has taken a lot of work, which means that it may not be in perfect condition. It is advisable to check whether it still has a capacity that can be described as ideal. If not, it is advisable to think about a replacement. Especially if you need the car, it is not advisable to risk not starting it. It is also a good idea to let the battery charge, which is a step that in most cases can be enough to make it through the spring and the following summer. However, in the autumn days, really think about the exchange.
Check the cooling system
It is not so heavily loaded during the winter. And so if something isn't working as it should, you'll only know it on warmer days. We recommend that you check all connections, as well as checking for leaks. Of course, don't forget to top up the coolant as well, which is another necessity. In winter, a smaller level may be sufficient, but on warmer days it will be associated with worse cooling properties, and this is not worth risking.
Ensure a clear view from the car
Spring weather is risky mainly in that there can be frequent rains. Water and dirt flying from other vehicles will dirty your windshield. And so it is necessary to ensure a perfect view from the car. The first step is to fill the washer fluid. Let's assume that there is still some antifreeze left, which will eliminate possible freezing if an unexpected short-term frost occurs. And so you can refill the washer container with the classic summer mixture without any worries.
It is also advisable to check and, if necessary, also replace the wipers. They are very often damaged in the winter. Both by the effect of frost and by the fact that they freeze and you try to peel them off, just as they are damaged by wiping rough frosted glass with them. The rubber bands will not last any of this and thus lose their effectiveness. Replace them with new ones and a perfect view from the cars is ensured
Wash the car thoroughly
During the winter, when the roads were salted, regular maintenance was almost pointless, as the salt got on the body the very next day. Now, with the onset of spring, salting is basically no longer a threat. And that means it's high time to wash your car. And that carefully and thoroughly, including the chassis. It is also ideal to use different preparations or procedures. Popular is the so-called undercarriage spray, which can protect it from corrosion. A combination of wax and polish is suitable for the bodywork, which achieves a combination of protection and beauty.
Focus on the filter and the air conditioner
The basis should also be the replacement of the cabin filter. Both because dirt accumulates in it, and because it can also contain mold. The wet winter season is the perfect time for them, as they start to multiply in the filter together with dirt. And everything then goes directly into the interior. By changing the filter, you not only get the assurance of fresh air, but also the assurance that the air will flow much better.
Also, don't forget about air conditioning. Even if you don't need it in the first weeks of spring, the time of higher temperatures can come suddenly. Therefore, be prepared for them. First try if it works. If it does not cool, visit a service center. If it cools and everything is fine, just disinfect it. Special sprays are useful for this, which are available on the market for quite cheap money.
Check operating fluids
Of course, according to the instructions from the driving school, you should do it regularly, before every fare. However, the reality is different. And so check everything at least during the spring preparation of your car. We have already mentioned two liquids, so we will add another one to them. It's brake fluid, just like power steering fluid. Both are a must. Fill them up to the required level and you are sure that you will not face any problem caused by the system not working for this reason.
Also check the technical condition of the car
Snow, frost or wind are definitely not ideal conditions for checking the car. And so it is possible that you neglected a number of things. Now is therefore the right time to visually check the technical condition. Focus mainly on the lights and whether everything shines in them as it should. Also focus on the quality of the brake pads and discs. This is also a check that you should not underestimate.
Take out the chains, sand and shovel
Do you carry this equipment with you in case you get lost? In the spring, you won't need it anymore, so everything can be removed from the car and stored in the basement. Although it is not a necessity, it is a practicality. Both because these things will not take up space in your car, and because you will reduce the weight of your car. Even if it's small, it can make a difference in your car's fuel consumption. If you drive a lot during the year, you will definitely manage to save some crowns.
