The winter can be hard on vehicles. The freezing temperatures and frequent salt contact can cause parts to degrade, make the car fluids less effective, and reduce fuel and battery efficiency. As soon as the weather starts to warm up, it’s important to take maintenance steps to reduce wear and tear and prevent costly auto repairs.

A Guide to Getting Your Car Ready for Spring

1. Clean the Underbody

Part of living in a cold climate with a lot of snow is dealing with salt accumulation on your vehicle’s undercarriage. While you should keep the area sprayed off throughout the season, the freezing temperatures don’t always allow for this. When the days begin to warm up, use a pressure washer or a long brush and specialized degreaser to remove salt, mud, dirt, and other debris.

2. Schedule an Oil Change

While multi-grade oils remove the need to swap back and forth from lighter to heavier viscosity as the seasons change, having your old changed is still important this time of year. The warmer weather often means longer car trips on weekends, and having fresh oil and a new filter reduces the likelihood of your engine overheating from dirt and metal buildups.

3. Replace Your Windshield Wipers

Your windshield wipers should be replaced every six months, and if your vehicle was regularly exposed to ice and snow, they should be changed after and before winter. Harsh conditions can damage the blades’ metal and rubber often resulting in squeaking or scratching noises. Replace them to ensure you are prepared for the rainy season.

At the start of spring, bring your car to Dansville Auto Mart for professional maintenance. This family-owned business has been Dansville, NY, and the surrounding areas’ go-to place for used cars and trucks. They also provide full-service auto repairs and maintenance, including everything from oil changes to engine rebuilds. Call them today at (585) 335-8280 to make an appointment at their shop, or visit their website to learn more about their auto repair services.