Spring auto maintenance tips

ELORA – As spring sits just around the corner and the snow begins to clear, drivers are reminded to prepare their vehicles for the warmer months ahead with a few simple tips.

Swapping tires

“Swapping winter tires for all-season tires in the spring is important for both safety and cost savings,” said Kevin Graves, service advisor at Bert’s Auto and Tire in Elora. 

“Winter tires are made from a softer rubber compound that works well in cold temperatures, but once the weather warms up, they wear down much faster and can significantly shorten their lifespan.” 

In warmer conditions, winter tires provide less precise handling, longer stopping distances and reduced stability, making driving less safe. Additionally, winter tires create more rolling resistance (the force that opposes the motion of a rolling object), which can lower fuel efficiency.

“All-season tires, on the other hand, are designed to perform better on dry and wet roads in moderate temperatures, offering improved traction, a smoother ride and more even wear,” said Graves. 

“By switching tires in the spring, drivers protect their investment in winter tires, improve vehicle performance, and stay safer as road conditions change.”

Salt removal

“Washing away built-up salt from your vehicle after winter is essential to prevent long-term damage and maintain its value,” he said. “Road salt is highly corrosive and when left on your car, it can eat away at metal components, leading to rust on the body, undercarriage, brake lines and exhaust system.”

Salt can also damage paint and clear coat, causing dullness and peeling over time. 

Graves says by cleaning your vehicle in the spring, especially the undercarriage, you remove these harmful residues, protect critical parts and help extend the life and appearance of your vehicle. 

Comprehensive inspection

After winter, it’s important to perform a thorough vehicle inspection to catch any damage caused by cold temperatures, road salt and rough road conditions. This should include checking the tires for wear, proper inflation and any damage from potholes, as well as inspecting the brakes, since salt and moisture can accelerate wear and corrosion. 

“The battery should be tested, as cold weather can weaken it  and all fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield washer fluid should be checked and topped up or replaced if needed,” said Graves.

“It’s also important to inspect the suspension and steering components for wear or looseness caused by rough winter roads.”

The undercarriage and exhaust system should be inspected to identify any rust or corrosion from road salt and both windshield wiper blades and both headlights and tail lights should be checked to ensure clear visibility and proper function. 

“Taking the time to go through these inspections helps ensure the vehicle is safe, reliable and ready for the warmer months ahead,” said Graves.

“Brake caliper servicing is also important as well as having your vehicle inspected by a licensed technician at a minimum of every 6 months.   This is  especially important for electric vehicles as they do not go in for regular oil changes.”

Graves also encourages drivers to keep an emergency kit inside the vehicle at all times.

“Keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle with water, jumper cables and basic tools is still important, even in warmer months,” he said, adding that drivers should also keep a pair of sunglasses on hand for especially sunny days.