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Exposure to frigid temperatures and chugging along in snow and ice throughout winter can leave vehicles in need of upkeep once spring arrives. In addition to preventing breakdowns, car maintenance will improve fuel economy and gas mileage so that you spend less at the pump. Whether you are running errands or taking a road trip, the following advice will ensure your ride is ready for driving demands during the warmer months.    

3 Spring Car Maintenance Tips

1. Change the Motor Oil

Many motorists use winter-grade motor oil, as it won’t get thick or freeze in cold weather. When temperatures rise, schedule an oil change service. A mechanic will replace the winter solution with one that will flow well during spring and summer. This will keep parts lubricated and the engine from overheating. When the engine runs smoothly, it doesn’t consume more fuel than necessary. Gas mileage improves as a result. 

2. Test the Battery

When an auto mechanic performs a spring inspection, they should test car maintenancethe battery, too. During winter, low temperatures reduce battery power. At 32 degrees Fahrenheit, for example, the part can lose 35 percent of its power. Dim headlights and other electrical problems are signs of a dying battery. A car maintenance provider will use a multimeter to measure the voltage and determine whether the battery can be charged or needs to be replaced. 

3. Get a Professional Wash

Although spring showers can wash away some of the mud and salt clinging to the exterior, don’t rely on the rain to get your car clean. The grime can corrode the clear finish and paint underneath. When the coatings are gone, exposure to air and moisture could rust metal panels. To prevent these problems, go to a full-service car wash. Technicians will use automatic equipment and commercial-grade cleaners to restore your vehicle’s glistening appearance and protect the paint.

 

Some car troubles can be subtle, which is why you should leave it to the team at Car Care Clinic at Gateway Transmissions to investigate. Serving motorists in Washington’s Skagit and Island counties since 1999, the technicians will diagnose and remedy problems plaguing any of your vehicle’s systems. For car maintenance at the Mount Vernon facility, call (360) 424-3100 and dial (360) 679-0700 for help in Oak Harbor. Check online for special offers and learn about the benefits regular car care provides on Facebook

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