After a harsh winter season, your vehicle needs some special attention to ensure it runs smoothly through spring. Here are the essential maintenance tasks every northeast Ohio driver should consider as temperatures rise and road conditions change.
Wash Away Winter’s Remains
Winter road salt and grime can cause significant damage if left untreated. According to Tom Fitzgerald, service manager at Twinsburg Auto Care, “The first thing every driver should do is get a thorough undercarriage wash. Road salt is incredibly corrosive and can accelerate rust formation on vital components if not properly removed.”
A complete exterior cleaning should include:
- Thorough undercarriage washing to remove salt deposits
- Cleaning of wheel wells where debris collects
- Waxing to protect against spring rain and pollen
Check and Replace Wiper Blades
Winter weather is particularly harsh on wiper blades. “Most people don’t realize their wipers are deteriorated until they’re caught in the first spring downpour with streaky visibility,” says Maria Chen, parts specialist at Summit County Automotive. Consider replacing wiper blades that show signs of cracking, stiffness, or uneven wiping.
Inspect Tires After Winter Wear
Cold temperatures, snow, and ice take a toll on tires. As spring arrives, check:
- Tire pressure (which fluctuates with temperature changes)
- Tread depth (the penny test is a reliable method)
- Uneven wear patterns that might indicate alignment issues
“Spring is the perfect time to rotate your tires and check alignment,” notes mechanical technician Dave Williams. “The freeze-thaw cycles create potholes that can throw off your alignment without you even noticing.”
Fluid Checks and Changes
Winter driving often depletes vehicle fluids faster than normal. Spring maintenance should include checking:
- Oil and filter (consider changing if you’re approaching the recommended interval)
- Coolant levels and condition
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid (switch from winter to summer formula)
Battery Inspection
Car batteries work harder in cold weather. “We see a significant uptick in battery failures during the first warm days,” explains Elena Rodriguez, certified mechanic at Cleveland Auto Works. “The strain of winter often doesn’t show until temperatures rise. Have your battery tested if it’s more than three years old.”
Brake System Evaluation
Winter driving conditions frequently lead to accelerated brake wear. “Salt and water intrusion can cause brake components to deteriorate faster,” says Michael Thompson, brake specialist. “Listen for unusual noises and pay attention to how your vehicle responds when stopping.”
Air Conditioning Service
Before summer heat arrives, test your vehicle’s air conditioning system. “Many people discover their A/C isn’t working properly on the first hot day,” Rodriguez notes. “Testing it early gives you time to address refrigerant leaks or component failures without the summer rush.”
Check Cabin Air Filters
Spring allergens make cabin air filters especially important. “A clogged cabin air filter not only reduces air quality inside your vehicle but can also strain your HVAC system,” explains Chen. Most manufacturers recommend changing these filters annually or every 15,000-30,000 miles.
By addressing these maintenance items early in the season, northeast Ohio drivers can ensure their vehicles transition smoothly from winter to summer driving conditions, potentially avoiding costly repairs and ensuring safety on the road.
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