Helpful Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Vehicle

This guide to spring cleaning will help you keep your vehicle in top condition, from regular maintenance to handling unexpected repairs. 

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the perfect opportunity to thoroughly clean your vehicle. 

After months of winter driving, your vehicle may require some TLC to get it looking and feeling its best. 

Fortunately, the team at Royal Auto Collision knows exactly what to do to ensure your vehicle is summer-ready and in tip-top shape, with these tips on everything from spring cleaning to regular maintenance. 

We will explain why it’s important to spring clean your vehicle and even how to handle unexpected repairs that may have gone unnoticed during winter. So, let’s get started! 

Best Practices For Spring Cleaning Your Vehicle

Winter can cause a buildup of salt and dirt on your vehicle’s interior and exterior. Keep these tips in mind while cleaning your vehicle. Maintaining its appearance is not only important for aesthetics but also for its longevity!

1. Let’s start by taking everything out of your vehicle. Remove garbage and items stored in your vehicle that you don’t need (we all do it!) and give it a thorough vacuum. Don’t forget to clean under the seats and areas that may not be visible; this is very Important!
2. Do you have salt stains on your vehicle or seats from the winter? You only need a bucket of water, dawn soap, and a scrub brush. Voila!
3. Over the damp winter, your vehicle may begin to have a musty smell. Grab an air freshener at your local gas station; we recommend lavender or linen and sky to combat that damp smell. Your passengers will thank you.
4. Wash your vehicle once a week, especially during spring. It’s crucial to ensure that your vehicle’s paint and body remain in the best condition. With wet and dirty roads, grime and pollutants can quickly accumulate on the surface, potentially causing irreversible damage such as rusting. Let’s take action before that happens. 

Spring Time Vehicle Maintenance

Once winter is over, it’s essential to complete a thorough check of your vehicle to ensure it’s in good working condition for its well-being and your safety. Here are a few key areas you should inspect before hitting the road:

1. Check your tires for any signs of wear and tear that winter may cause. Test them to ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure. Check your owner’s manual for your vehicle’s ideal tire pressure.
2. Inspect your brakes and make sure they are functioning correctly. Ask yourself: Are they working like they did previous to winter? Is there a jumping feeling when you press on the brake? Finally, are they making any noise?
3. Check the fluids on your vehicle, such as your washer fluid. Always make sure this is topped up. We recommend using a washer fluid that is good for bugs during this season. 
4. Inspect your wiper blades and replace them if they are cracked or worn out. It is now the rainy season, so make sure you don’t skip this step! 

By taking these necessary steps, you’ll be able to identify and address any issues early on, which can prevent costly repairs and potential safety hazards in the future! Your safety is very important. 

Unexpected Spring Time Vehicle Repairs

It’s a good idea to be prepared for any unexpected repairs to your vehicle, especially as we change from winter to spring. We want to share a few things to keep in mind during spring that may have gone unnoticed in the colder months to prevent these unexpected repairs before they happen to save you money in the long run.

1. Never ignore the “check engine” light, as it could indicate a more significant issue with your vehicle.
2. Test your air conditioning to ensure it works properly before the summer heat sets in. You never want to be stuck in the heat, so check before it’s too late!
3. Inspect your windshield for any chips or cracks that may have occurred during the winter. They can potentially worsen over time and compromise your visibility while driving.
4. Listen for any unusual sounds or vibrations from your vehicle, as that could indicate an underlying problem. 

By being proactive and attentive to these details, you can potentially avoid unexpected repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly throughout the year. If you ever need repairs, don’t hesitate to contact a nearby auto repair shop before the problem gets worse. 

Having that fresh, clean vehicle smell is a great way to prepare for springtime. Wouldn’t you agree? 

Also, taking the time to maintain your vehicle correctly during the spring season can go a long way in ensuring its longevity and safety. A well-maintained vehicle saves you money on costly repairs and provides peace of mind on the road. 

Follow the tips in this blog post to enjoy a worry-free driving experience and be confident in your vehicle’s reliability. Remember, a little effort now can save you a lot of trouble down the road. So, make it a priority to maintain your vehicle this spring and reap the benefits of a well-functioning vehicle for years to come. 

Happy Driving!