April is National Car Care Month, and the timing makes sense. Winter has just finished throwing potholes, slush and salt at your vehicle, and summer road trips are around the corner. A few hours of attention now can catch small issues before they turn into breakdowns, improve safety and help your car hold its value. Use this guide as your spring game plan.
Key Takeaways
- Spring is the ideal time to undo winter’s damage and prepare for warm-weather driving.
- Tires, brakes, fluids and lights are the core safety checks.
- Older and high-mileage vehicles benefit from a closer look.
- Your auto policy deserves an annual check-up, too.
Start With a Winter Recovery Wash
Road salt and grime keep working on your car long after the snow melts. Begin with a thorough wash that includes the undercarriage and wheel wells, where salt tends to collect. Clean the interior floor mats and carpets as well, since melted snow can leave residue and trap moisture. Finish with a coat of wax to protect the paint heading into a season of sun and pollen.
The Core Safety Checklist
Tires
Cold weather lowers tire pressure, and potholes can knock wheels out of alignment or damage sidewalls. Check pressure against the placard inside the driver’s door, look for bulges or cuts and measure tread depth. If you used winter tires, now is the time to swap back. Uneven wear or a car that pulls to one side may mean you need an alignment.
Brakes
Listen for squealing or grinding and notice whether the pedal feels soft or the car takes longer to stop. Salt can corrode brake components, so a spring inspection is a smart investment.
Fluids
- Engine oil and filter, based on your owner’s manual schedule
- Coolant, which matters even more once the weather heats up
- Brake fluid and power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid, ideally a bug-cleaning formula for summer
Lights and visibility
Walk around the car with the lights on and check headlights, brake lights, turn signals and reverse lights. Replace wiper blades that streak or chatter, since winter ice is hard on rubber. Clean hazy headlight lenses to improve nighttime visibility.
Battery and belts
Cold mornings drain a car battery, and a weak one may struggle once heat arrives. Many auto parts stores will test yours for free. While the hood is up, look for cracked or frayed belts and soft or bulging hoses.
Pro Tip
Keep a simple log in your glove box or phone with dates and mileage for every service. It helps you stay on schedule and can be valuable when you sell or trade in the car.
Extra Attention for High-Mileage Cars
Vehicles with plenty of miles can run reliably for years, but they reward a bit more care. Follow the severe-service maintenance schedule in your manual if you do a lot of short trips or towing. Watch for oil leaks, check suspension parts and listen for new noises. Addressing small issues quickly is usually far less expensive than waiting.
Restock Your Emergency Kit
Winter kits often get raided over the season. Refresh yours with warm-weather needs in mind.
- Jumper cables or a portable jump starter
- Flashlight with fresh batteries, or a rechargeable one
- First aid kit
- Bottled water and nonperishable snacks
- Reflective triangles or flares
- Basic tools, a tire pressure gauge and duct tape
- A phone charging cable or battery pack
Habits That Quietly Wear Down Your Car
Good maintenance can be undone by everyday habits. A few to watch:
Hard on Your Car
- Driving on low fuel regularly
- Ignoring dashboard warning lights
- Riding the brakes on long downhills
- Overloading the trunk or roof
Better Choice
- Refuel around a quarter tank
- Get warning lights checked promptly
- Downshift to control speed on grades
- Stay within your vehicle’s load rating
Traveling With Pets
If your dog rides along on spring outings, secure them with a crash-tested harness or a carrier rather than letting them roam the cabin. Never leave a pet in a parked car, even on a mild day, since interior temperatures can climb quickly.
When You Shop for a New Car
If spring is your season for a new vehicle, look at independent crash test ratings and the safety features available. Advanced driver assistance systems can help prevent crashes, though repairs to sensors and cameras can be costly, which may affect insurance premiums.
Give Your Auto Policy a Check-Up Too
Car care is not just mechanical. Take a few minutes to review your coverage:
- Review your liability limits. Make sure they reflect your current assets and income.
- Consider comprehensive coverage. It may help with non-collision losses like hail, theft and falling objects. Hail and falling limbs are common in spring storms.
- Look at roadside assistance and rental reimbursement. These optional coverages can be a big help if your car is stuck or in the shop.
- Update drivers and vehicles. Add new teen drivers, remove sold vehicles and let your agent know about changes in how you drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is National Car Care Month?
It is observed each April, which lines up well with recovering from winter and preparing for summer travel.
How often should I check my tire pressure?
At least once a month and before long trips. Check when tires are cold for the most accurate reading.
Does auto insurance pay for routine maintenance?
No. Insurance is designed for sudden, accidental losses, not wear and tear. Keeping up with maintenance can help prevent breakdowns and accidents that might lead to claims.
Is Your Coverage Road-Ready?
While you are tuning up your car, let Callicott Insurance Agency tune up your auto policy and make sure it still fits the way you drive.
This article is for general information only. Coverage varies by insurer, policy and state; review your own policy or talk with a licensed agent about your situation.