Spring Tune Up Tips
Get Your Vehicle Ready For Spring
Winter is slowly melting away, and with it brings warm weather and summer roadtrips. But before you start dreaming of your summer vacation, now is the perfect time to make some tune-ups on your car to ensure your vehicle is running safely and efficiently. While you should have your vehicle serviced regularly by a professional, there are also some simple check-ups that you can do at home to get your car ready this spring. Here are 5 tips from Maclin Ford to get you on your way.
After a long, cold winter, you engine oil is most likely due to be changed. Over time, engine oil goes through thermal breakdown and no longer is able to lubricate the engine parts, causing them to rub together and become damaged. It is important to change your oil before this point to save on unnecessary repairs or replacements. The oil filter also becomes clogged over time, so that should be changed regularly as well. Stop by your local dealership to have the pros handle it if you are unsure of how to change the oil and filter yourself.
Check Your Windshield & Wipers
Chips and cracks in your windshield can cause structural instability and potentially be dangerous in an accident. If you notice any major chips in your windshield you should get them fixed as soon as possible. Wiper blades also don't last forever, and you will notice when they stop working properly by the loud, squeaky noise as they run across the windshield. New blades are a quick and inexpensive fix, and you may as well top off your windshield washer fluid while you're at it.
Check The Braking System
Cold weather can wear down your braking system, so if you haven't had your brakes checked by a professional recently it's a good idea to do so. You should also take your car in if you notice any suspicious sounds or a weird feeling when you press on the brakes.
Battery Inspection
The battery also takes a beating after a winter filled with cold starts. Open the hood and inspect the battery posts for any buildup or corrosion, and that the connections are nice and tight. A mechanic can check the voltage and the overall health of the battery. Keep in mind that most car batteries only last three to five years, so it may be time to get a new one.
Your vehicle is filled with various fluids that don't last forever. Spring is a great time to check-up on your fluid levels such as power steering, brake, oil, and transmission fluids. Keeping an eye on fluid levels is an easy way to prevent any damage or breakdowns before they happen. If you are unsure of how to check your fluid levels, consult your vehicle's owner manual or take your car into your local dealership for assistance.
Maclin Ford is Here to Get Your Car Summer Ready in Calgary, AB
Keeping good care of your vehicle not only keeps you safe, but it also saves money on future repairs and increases the value of your car. Many simple tune-ups can be done at home for little money, however if you are unsure about the health of your vehicle, your best choice is to take it in to see a professional. Maclin Ford is open 6 days a week to help you get your car ready for summer. Visit us in person at 135 Glendeer Cir SE, Calgary, AB T2H 2S8 or call our expert Service Staff to set up an appointment at 18887048193.
