Smoother Ride Ahead: Spring Car Care for Peak Performance

As winter fades and spring emerges in Ontario, the change in seasons brings warmer temperatures, melting snow, and the welcome return of colourful blooms. Just as we do spring cleaning in our homes, it's equally important to give our vehicles some extra care and maintenance after the tough winter months. 

Our expert team at Erin Park Lexus is here to guide you through the essential steps to get your car ready for spring driving conditions. Follow their advice, and you'll be cruising into spring with a vehicle that looks and runs like new.

Tire Change: The First Step

Those winter tires were indispensable for safe travels when ice and snow covered the roads. But now that spring has arrived, it's time to remove them. Driving on winter tires in warmer weather can lead to premature wear and reduced performance. 

However, timing is important for the swap to regular tires. Mississauga springs can be fickle, with winter-like weather lingering some years. Most experts recommend waiting until daytime highs are consistently above 7°C before changing to summer or all-season tires.

The Joy (and Necessity) of a Clean Vehicle  

Interior Cleaning

Over the winter, salt, calcium, sand, and grime can accumulate inside your car's cabin. Give the interior a deep cleaning, paying special attention to floor mats, seats, and surfaces like the dashboard. Those nooks and crannies can harbour debris.

Exterior Cleaning

It's not just an aesthetic issue – failing to remove the buildup of winter residue like salt from your vehicle's exterior can have serious consequences. Corrosion, underbody deterioration, alignment issues, and even exhaust system damage can occur without proper cleaning.

Use quality automotive detergents, and be sure to thoroughly clean the undercarriage. Protecting components like the suspension from salt and sand will prevent costly repairs down the road.

Fluid Checks: An Essential Step

Winter driving conditions put extra strain on your vehicle's various fluids. Before spring gets into full swing, have these fluids checked and topped up as needed:

• Windshield washer fluid (switch to a spring/summer blend)
• Motor oil (aim for oil changes twice a year)
• Coolant 
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid

Checking and replenishing your vehicle's fluids, especially the oil, is vital for keeping everything running smoothly for years to come.

Conclusion  

Don't let the winter wear and tear linger into spring. Follow these simple maintenance tips to get your beloved vehicle refreshed and ready to tackle the warmer months ahead. Our experts at Erin Park Lexus are standing by to answer any questions or handle all your spring maintenance needs. With some basic care, your car will be looking and driving its best this spring.