Why Spring Maintenance Matters

As winter finally loosens its grip, your vehicle has endured months of extreme cold, road salt, ice, and potholes. Now is the perfect time to assess the wear and tear left behind and ensure your car is in top shape for the warmer months ahead. A spring tune-up isn’t just about swapping out winter tires—it’s about checking key components like tire tread depth, alignment, fluid levels, and brakes to prevent costly repairs down the road.

Winter driving conditions can be especially harsh on suspension components, wheel alignment, and engine fluids. Booking a post-winter inspection will help extend the lifespan of your vehicle, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance your overall driving experience.

Time to Switch Back to All-Season or Summer Tires

Winter tires are essential for cold-weather traction, but once temperatures consistently rise above 7°C, they become less effective. Winter tire rubber is softer, and continued use in warmer conditions can cause excessive wear, leading to reduced braking performance and handling stability. Switching back to all-season or summer tires at the right time will restore optimal traction and improve fuel efficiency.

Inspect Tread Depth for Safety

Regardless of the season, worn-out tread can compromise your grip on wet roads. Use the “quarter test”—if the tread does not cover the caribou on a quarter when inserted into the grooves, it’s time for a replacement. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires when tread depth reaches 3/32” or lower, as hydroplaning becomes a major risk in rainy conditions.

Check and Adjust Tire Pressure

Tire pressure fluctuates with temperature changes. Cold air contracts, often leading to underinflated tires in the winter, while warmer air expands, causing overinflation in spring. Both conditions can lead to uneven tread wear, poor fuel economy, and reduced safety. Checking and adjusting your tire pressure to manufacturer-recommended levels ensures a smoother, safer ride.

Suspension & Alignment: Pothole Damage Assessment

Winter conditions can be unforgiving on your suspension system, with potholes being one of the biggest culprits. Driving over potholes at high speeds or repeatedly hitting rough road surfaces can throw off your wheel alignment, damage shocks and struts, and lead to uneven tire wear.

Signs you need a spring alignment check:

• Vehicle pulls to one side while driving on a straight road.
• Steering wheel feels off-centre even when driving straight.
• Uneven or excessive tire wear on one side.
• Vibrations in the steering wheel, especially at highway speeds.

A proper alignment correction not only improves handling and stability but also maximizes the lifespan of your tires. Pairing an alignment check with a suspension inspection ensures shocks and struts remain in good condition, keeping your ride smooth and controlled.

Brake Inspection: Ensure Reliable Stopping Power

Road salt and winter moisture accelerate corrosion on brake components, making a spring brake inspection essential for safety. Brake pads, rotors, and callipers should be examined for signs of wear, rust buildup, or reduced stopping performance.

Signs you may need brake service:

• Squeaking or grinding noises when braking.
• Soft or spongy brake pedal, requiring extra pressure to stop.
• Vibrations or pulsing in the brake pedal when slowing down.
• Longer stopping distances or reduced braking response.

Replacing worn brake pads before they completely wear down can prevent costly rotor damage and maintain optimal braking performance.

Fluid Levels & Engine Care: Refresh Your System

After months of battling cold temperatures, engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid may need attention.

• Engine Oil & Filter: Cold weather thickens oil, making it less effective at lubricating engine components. A spring oil change removes sludgy, winter-worn oil, improving engine efficiency and longevity.
• Coolant/Antifreeze: Even though it prevents freezing in winter, coolant also regulates engine temperature in warmer months. Ensuring proper coolant levels and a clean radiator prevents overheating and costly repairs.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Winter de-icing formulas are great for snow and ice but may not be ideal for spring. Switching to bug-resistant, rain-repelling washer fluid improves visibility in changing weather conditions.

Book Your Spring Service Appointment Today

Spring is the perfect time to reset your vehicle and ensure it’s performing at its best for the warmer months ahead. A post-winter tune-up addresses common wear-and-tear issues, improves safety, and extends the life of your car.

Don’t wait until minor issues become costly repairs—schedule your spring maintenance today! Click the button below to book your service appointment and enjoy a smooth, worry-free drive this season.