Spring is the perfect time to get your car ready for hot weather, long road trips, and increased driving demands. Winter conditions can take a toll on essential components, and skipping seasonal maintenance can lead to overheating, breakdowns, or costly repairs. With summer right around the corner, here’s what you should check in April to ensure your car runs smoothly all season long.
1. Check and Change Your Oil
Your engine works harder in warm weather, and old, dirty oil can’t provide proper lubrication. If your last oil change was during winter, now is the time to replace it with fresh, high-quality oil suited for summer temperatures. Dirty oil causes increased friction, overheating, and engine wear, so an oil change helps maintain optimal performance and fuel efficiency.
2. Inspect and Top Off Fluids
Fluids keep your car running efficiently, but heat and heavy driving can cause them to degrade or evaporate faster. Check and top off these essential fluids:
- Coolant – Prevents overheating in hot weather. If it’s low or discolored, get a coolant flush.
- Transmission Fluid – Ensures smooth shifting and prevents transmission damage.
- Brake Fluid – Keeps your braking system responsive and safe.
- Power Steering Fluid – Helps maintain smooth steering performance.
- Windshield Washer Fluid – Essential for keeping your windshield clear of bugs and debris.
3. Test Your Battery
Winter cold can weaken your battery, and summer heat accelerates fluid evaporation and internal damage. If your battery is over three years old, has corrosion, or struggles to start the engine, have it tested to avoid unexpected failure. A weak battery can leave you stranded, so replace it if necessary.
4. Check Your Cooling System
The radiator and cooling system prevent overheating, which is a common issue in summer. Inspect hoses and the coolant reservoir for leaks or cracks. If your temperature gauge runs higher than usual, your cooling system may need service. A coolant flush is recommended every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or as specified by your vehicle manufacturer.
5. Inspect Your Tires for Wear and Proper Pressure
Tires lose pressure in cold weather and can become overinflated as temperatures rise. Proper inflation improves fuel efficiency, traction, and safety. Also, check your tread depth using the penny test—if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Rotate your tires if needed, and consider an alignment check if you notice uneven wear.
6. Ensure Your AC is Blowing Cold Air
You don’t want to discover a failing air conditioning system on the first hot day of summer. Test your AC now—if it’s blowing warm air or weak airflow, you may need a refrigerant recharge or an AC system check. A technician can inspect for leaks and ensure your AC runs efficiently before summer hits.
7. Check and Replace Worn Wipers
Winter conditions can wear down windshield wiper blades, leaving streaks or skipping across the glass. Replace them now so you’re ready for spring and summer rainstorms.
8. Inspect Your Brakes
Brakes are crucial for safety, and warmer temperatures and road trips put extra stress on them. If you notice squeaking, grinding, a soft pedal, or vibrations when braking, get your brake pads, rotors, and fluid checked.
9. Wash and Protect Your Car’s Exterior
Winter roads expose your car to salt, dirt, and grime, which can lead to rust and paint damage. A thorough wash, followed by waxing or ceramic coating, will protect your car’s finish from UV rays and summer heat.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of spring maintenance in April helps prevent breakdowns, improves fuel efficiency, and ensures a smooth, trouble-free summer. By checking fluids, testing your battery, inspecting tires, servicing your cooling system, and ensuring your AC is working, you can enjoy warm-weather driving with confidence. Schedule a professional maintenance check with a trusted auto repair shop to get your car summer-ready today.