Winter is fading away, and with spring on the horizon, you may be preparing for road trips and other warm-weather plans. Calling your auto mechanic and getting your vehicle in shape should be on the top of your to-do list. Here are five steps for springtime car care.

How to Prep Your Car This Spring

1. Inspect Lights & Wipers

Check that all lights are functioning, including headlights, brake lights, and turn signals. These are all necessary for safe driving, especially at night. Also, install fresh wiper blades that will clear away heavy spring rains to provide unobstructed views while driving.

2. Assess Belts & Hoses

During the winter, hoses and belts may dry out and crack. Have an auto mechanic check all of these critical components for hardening, cracking, fraying, and other problems, and replace anything that is compromised.

3. Change Fluids

Keeping up with oil changes is a critical step in car maintenance, but you should have all fluids and filters checked when spring hits. Oil lubricates your engine and prevents unnecessary wear and tear that can lead to issues. Also, inspect power steering, brake, transmission, coolant, and wiper fluids. All help create an efficient, trouble-free ride.

4. Check Tire Pressure & Treads

Measure tire pressure according to the levels laid out in your owner’s manual and fill any that are too low. Look at the treads and note uneven or excessive wear, cuts, holes, or frays in the rubber. Replace tires that are too worn out to avoid blowouts and poor fuel economy as you drive.

5. Clean Everything

Give your car a thorough cleaning to start the season off right. Wash the exterior to remove grime, salt, and other dirt that may have accumulated in winter. Then, wipe down the dashboard and vacuum the carpets. Having your car detailed is another way to get into every crevice and purge dust and debris.

For car owners in Ashtabula County, OH, T. Busch Automotive in Jefferson is the car repair shop to call when you want to prepare your vehicle for spring and summer. Since 1968, their expert auto mechanics have offered a long list of services, from oil changes to engine repair. In fact, their customers automatically receive a tire rotation, general brake inspection, and fluid check with every oil change. The family-owned location also carries top brands like Firestone®, Bridgestone®, and MOOG®, as well as financing. Call (440) 576-1971 for an appointment, and visit them online to explore their services.