Spring is almost upon us and soon the harsh cold and wet winter will be but a memory. The new growth, baby animals. and warmer sunny days all signify a rebirth in nature. It also signifies the time to dust off the garaged car, truck, or Jeep and get it ready for FUN! So prepare your car for spring and you will be glad you did.

So what are the 5 ways you can get your vehicle ready for spring?

TIP # 1 – RADIATOR AND COOLING UPGRADES

When spring comes so does warmer weather and it is a precursor to hotter temperatures and the summer months. So when spring comes it is the time to look at cooling upgrades to make sure your system is prepared for the hot days to come. Here are some ways to upgrade your cooling system.

• Flush the radiator and do a complete change of coolant fluids.
• Change out all radiator hoses and check fasteners and clamps.
• Replace radiator caps.
• Change out thermostats and housings.
• Inspect water pumps and any other cooling equipment for proper working order.

TIP # 2 AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM

Spring is the time to get your air conditioning system looked at and to make sure it is operating properly. Believe me you dont want to have a problem in the middle of summer and have to scramble to fix it. The system will cost more to fix at the start of summer, you know peak demand begets higher costs. So make sure you do some preventative maintenance and fix problem before they occur and now when prices may be less expensive.

• Turn on unit and make sure it functions.
• Check compressor, dryer, and evap units. Check hoses.
• Have unit serviced and recharged if necessary.

TIP # 3 SERVICE TRANSMISSION, CHANGE OILS, AND LUBE

Now is a good time to look at all the fluids in the car including transmission fluid, differential fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, engine oil, and to lube all chassis points. When checking major fluids like engine oil and transmission fluids you may want to get it analyzed to see if there is a deeper issue there. When looking at fluids you may want to do the following.

• Check transmission fluid and do a complete change, top off, or power flush it. This will make sure that if you do a lot of towing that your transmission will be ready for it.
• Change differential fluid by draining it. At the very least top it off and make sure you are ready for the off-road trails. Now would be a great time to add a differential bolt kit to dress up your differential cover.
• Check the system fluids like brake and power steering and top off as needed.
• Have the engine oil changed and upgrade to a good oil filter. Install an easy drain valve for easier future oil changes.
• Look for and lubricate all chassis points with grease fittings.

TIP #4 DO EXTERIOR LOOK OVER AND CHANGE OUT NECESSARY WEAR PARTS

On the outside of the vehicle are many wear parts that need to be changed to make sure you can operate the vehicle safely. Do a walk around the vehicle and make sure all seals, weatherstripping, glass, and body panels are in good shape. Look at tires and if they are in need of changing make sure that you do before the peak driving months come. Here are some other things you can do to make sure the exterior of the car is ready to go out of winter.

• Make sure you power wash the vehicle and get rid of all winter salt and other road debris collected over the winter months.
• Change out all the wiper blades so you are prepared for the rainy months ahead.
• Look at the tires, fill to correct air pressure and change if needed.
• Change out any exterior parts that should be changed for the safety of the vehicle.
• Turn on all the lights and lamps, test the brake lights and turn signals. Change any bulbs if needed.
• Change shocks or struts if needed.

TIP #5 GET A TUNE UP, CLEAN ENGINE, AND CHANGE AIR AND CABIN FILTERS

The one thing that people neglect is filters. They dont cost a lot, are easy to change, and can help improve car performance. Also a tune up is another great way to help improve car performance. And lastly you should look at a good fuel cleaner and engine metal treatment to help protect your engine and the components within. Here are some specific ideas you can do to help get your engine ready for spring.

• Change out cabin filters within the car to get ready of stale musty air.
• Change out the engine air filter, places that change oil can charge a lot to change this filter but most of the time you can do it yourself and save a lot of money.
• Get an engine tune up. Or at the very least change out the spark plugs and any damaged wires.
• Run a good engine fuel cleaner through your system to help clean out deposits and clogged fuel injectors. This will help improve combustion.
• Finally use a good metal treatment in your oil to help protect metal parts.

CONCLUSION

In the end if you take a little time and spend a few dollars you can make sure your vehicle is ready for the spring and summer months. This preventative maintenance can save you thousands in future vehicle repairs and make sure you are safe on the road and ready to go where and when you want.

So what are some other things you do to prepare your car for spring?