Spring is almost here, so now is the time to prepare your vehicle for the warmer seasons ahead. Before planning your next road trip, it’s time to start thinking about car maintenance in preparation for the warmer weather.
Spring is the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is ready for the upcoming travel season, and our handy checklist will ensure everything on your vehicle is A-OK when you hit the open road!
Fluid levels
The colder months make it imperative to check all your fluids and lubrication. Your engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid and brake fluid are a good start. You should also check your power steering fluid.
Hoses & belts
It’s a good idea to check and go over all hoses and belts. A belt that fails on your car could affect the electrical system, air conditioning and power steering, and even the cooling and heating system. With your hoses, also check the connections and clamps – the colder weather sometimes isn’t too kind.
Battery
It’s a good idea to test your battery and confirm it still has plenty of life left? Don’t have a multimeter to check? Ask us at your next service, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Brakes
Spring is an excellent time to check the entire brake system of your vehicle. Run your eye over your brake pads, rotors and brake lines and make sure there’s plenty of life left in your pads. Also, look for any uneven wear or imprints on your discs.
Exhaust & Oxygen Sensor
A bad oxygen sensor can cause sluggish and rough driving and may eventually stall your vehicle. A few signs will help you know when it’s time to have these sensors replaced – ask us how at your next service.
HVAC
The term HVAC stands for Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. Because of HVAC, hidden crevices combined with moisture build-up and temperature variation can be a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungus. Therefore, spring is a perfect time to replace your car’s cabin filter.
Steering
Check and top up your power steering fluid reservoir if required. It’s also a good idea to look under your car for signs of fluid leakage. Leaks could be in the steering pump, hoses or the steering rack.
Suspension
Open up the bonnet of your vehicle and look at either side’s strut or shock towers, which will extend above each wheel. Check the shocks or struts for signs of physical damage, such as leaking, rusting, or dents. Also, keep an eye out for any signs of corrosion or rust on the fasteners, and make sure they’re not loose or damaged.
Tyres
Check your tyres! They are the only thing connecting your vehicle to the road while driving. Therefore, they are paramount to your and your passenger’s safety. Push a 10c coin into your tyre tread vertically, and if the tread doesn’t cover the outer band printed on the coin, then you have less than 3mm tread depth remaining and need new tyres.
Visibility
A dirty windshield can make it difficult for visibility. Don’t forget to top up your window washer fluid, especially with all the recent rain in NSW!
Service
Still not sure or need a hand? Let the experts at Sutherland Automotive do a full inspection and service on your vehicle. Book an appointment online today!
