Posted: 03/25/2022
It's finally springtime! The weather is getting nicer and the flowers are starting to bloom. This is also the time of year when people start thinking about getting their vehicles ready for the spring season. If you're one of those people, Arnold Motor Supply has got you covered. We've put together a list of tips to help you get your car or truck ready for spring.
Your car's battery is affected by cold weather in the following ways: the water in the battery evaporates faster, the battery produces less power, and the cranking speed of the engine is slower. Because of this, it's important to check your battery and make sure it's in good shape before spring arrives. If your battery is more than three years old, it's a good idea to have it tested by a professional.
You should change your oil every five months or 5000 miles, whichever comes first. But if you live in an area with cold winters, it's a good idea to change your oil more frequently during the winter months. This will help prevent your engine from freezing up. When changing your oil, be sure to use the type of oil that's recommended for your vehicle's make and model. It’s always best to consult your car’s owner’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s specified instructions.
Cold weather can cause your tires to deflate--it might not be enough to trigger a low tire pressure alert on your dashboard, but the lower temperatures will cause the air molecules to move more slowly, which causes the tires to lose some of their pressure. In addition to inflating your tires, also look for tread wear, uneven tire wear, and bald spots. If you find any problems with your tires, have them fixed as soon as possible.
If you live in an area with a lot of snow, your windshield wipers have probably taken a beating over the winter. The rubber on the blades gets hard and cracked from exposure to the cold weather, which makes them less effective at clearing away snow and ice. Spring is a good time to replace your windshield wipers so you'll be prepared for any spring storms that come your way.
Your car's filters also need to be changed regularly, especially during the spring and summer months when the air is more polluted. Be sure to check your engine air filter, cabin air filter, and fuel system filter. If any of them are dirty or clogged, change them immediately.
It's not just the inside of your car that needs to be cleaned in spring--the outside of it does too! A good wash will get rid of all the dirt, salt, and mud that has built up during winter driving.
Arnold Motor Supply has been a leading supplier of auto parts since 1927. Founded and based in Iowa, we have locations all over the midwest. Order your parts today and you'll be notified via email once your purchase is ready for pickup at your local Arnold Motor Supply parts store.