8 Spring maintenance tips for your car

Here is a checklist for Spring car maintenance for your automobile.

1. tires

If you use snow tires, swap back to your summer ones as soon as the snow and ice have cleared. However, if you use all-season tires, you can extend the life of the set by rotating them seasonally.

2. windshield wiper blades

This is the perfect time to inspect and replace your wiper blades if needed. Road salt and cold temperatures can play havoc with the rubber. Also, make sure you replenish your windshield washer fluid.

3. cylinder head gaskets

To understand the overall health of the components used to seal your engine, place an appropriately sized sheet of cardboard under your vehicle's engine assembly, then let it sit idle for a day or two before removing it. From there you can read the results (stains left on the cardboard) to identify if leaks are present and where they are coming from. For example engine oil, transmission fluid or coolant. For anyone with an asphalt driveway, this makes it easy to see.

4. vehicle underbody

To get rid of the salty buildup, use a high-pressure sprayer, paying close attention to the front and rear bumpers. After spraying, check for signs of rust. The most common place for rust is around the bumpers and wheel wells.

5. oil pan gaskets

Replacing a leaky oil pan gasket is the most effective way to ensure your vehicle is running effectively. If you see oil leaking, first check that the drain plug isn't loose and that the oil filter is in place properly. If the leak is still there, use your owner's manual or work with an automotive professional to replace the oil pan gasket.

6. brakes

Thoroughly inspect the brakes like you would your wiper blades. Listen closely for any grinding, clanking or squealing noises. Even if you don't hear any noises, check your brakes on a regular basis.

7. fluids

Check all your fluids on a regular basis. If you see a significant drop in fluid levels, it is important to check. The missing fluid is often leaking or otherwise being consumed inside the engine. If you change the oil on your own, make sure to use the right formulation.

8. valve cover gaskets

If you see any low oil levels or leaks within your engine, it could be coming from the area where the valve cover meets the cylinder head. If oil is present either below the joint where the valve cover meets the cylinder head or just above it, then replace the valve cover gasket. If the seal is compromised, oil can leak from the inside. The valve cover BTs can also work loose, resulting in warping or cracking. Age and miles driven can dry out and crack the valve cover gasket.