COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Spring is here, which generally means one thing - spring cleaning. After a harsh winter, damage to your car's interior and exterior may be more than you think. NAPA offers important maintenance and cleaning tips to help prepare for the upcoming summer driving season.
"My advice to car owners is to read the owner's manual and follow the recommended service check ups - especially following winter driving months," said Michael Lavoie, 2006 NAPA Technician of the Year.
Winter driving can be especially hard on the vehicles' tires. Check the condition of all tires, including the spare. Uneven wear, vibrating or pulling to one side generally indicates a problem with the tires or the suspension system. When checking the tires, remember to rotate existing tires or replace them with new ones. Rotating extends the life of the tires and assures better braking and handling of the vehicle.
Other recommendations follow:
Check the brakes--especially after driving on wet and slippery roads. Common signs of deteriorating brake pads can include excessive grinding, squealing and screeching.
Evaluate your vehicle's engine performance problems such as difficult start-ups, high idling and periodic stalling, all which should be remedied. Once these problems are corrected, your vehicle will receive better gas mileage and something small will be less likely to develop into a major and expensive complication.
Make sure all fluids are topped off, including transmission, brake, power steering, radiant coolant and windshield washer fluids. Car engines have the tendency to work harder during the winter months which means that fluids are used up more quickly.
Change the oil and oil filter based on the owner's manual recommendations. This service can greatly increase the vehicle's life--even though drivers often neglect this area of servicing.
Clean and vacuum your vehicle on a regular basis. Clutter, salt and dirt have the tendency to collect in and on cars--especially during winter months. Cleaning and vacuuming your vehicle will help keep it looking new. Regardless of the finish, vehicles should be regularly washed throughout the year. Applying wax once the vehicle is completely dry will preserve the car's shine and protect the surface.
"Following these basic maintenance and cleaning recommendations will not only save drivers time and money but will enhance the vehicle's performance and longevity," Lavoie said.
