Spring Into the Season: Essential Vehicle Maintenance After Winter

Winter can be tough on your vehicle. Between freezing temperatures, and potholes, your vehicle works overtime just to keep you moving safely. As temperatures rise and spring settles in, it’s the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. Here’s a practical guide to the most important maintenance checks to prioritize when transitioning from winter to spring.

1. Inspect and Adjust Your Tires

Cold temperatures cause tire pressure to drop, and winter driving conditions often lead to uneven tread wear.

Spring tire checklist:

• Check and adjust tire pressure to manufacturer specifications.
• Inspect tread depth and look for uneven wear patterns.
• Consider an alignment check if you encountered potholes or notice pulling while
• driving.

Proper tire maintenance improves fuel efficiency, safety, and ride comfort.

2. Check the Braking System

Moisture and salt exposure can affect brake components during winter.

Watch for:

• Grinding, squeaking, or scraping sounds
• Vibration when braking
• Vehicle pulling to one side

A brake inspection ensures your system is functioning safely and efficiently heading into

spring and summer travel season.

3. Test the Battery

Winter weather is one of the leading causes of battery strain. Even if your vehicle started

reliably all season, spring is a common time for battery failures.

Recommended actions:

• Test battery health and charge level.
• Inspect and clean corrosion from terminals.
• Replace batteries approaching the 3-5 year mark.

Preventative testing can save you from an unexpected breakdown.

4. Check and Refresh Fluids

Cold weather affects fluid performance, and spring is a good time to review levels and condition.

• Inspect and top off or replace as needed:
• Engine oil
• Coolant/antifreeze
• Brake fluid
• Transmission fluid
• Windshield washer fluid

Fresh fluids help your vehicle run smoothly and protect key components.

5. Replace Wiper Blades and Inspect the Windshield

Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures often damage wiper blades.

• Replace cracked or streaking blades.
• Repair windshield chips before they spread.
• Ensure washer fluid system is functioning properly.

Clear visibility is critical during spring rainstorms.

6. Prepare for Warmer Weather: HVAC & Cabin Air Filter

As pollen levels rise, cabin air quality becomes more important.

• Replace the cabin air filter to improve airflow and reduce allergens.
• Test your air conditioning system before summer heat arrives.
• Early maintenance ensures comfort and avoids peak-season repair delays.

7. Inspect Suspension and Steering Components

Winter potholes can take a toll on your vehicle’s suspension.

Look for:

• Clunking noises over bumps
• Uneven tire wear
• Steering that feels loose or misaligned

Addressing these issues early prevents further damage and maintains ride quality.

Ready for Spring Driving?

Seasonal maintenance isn’t just about performance – it’s about safety, reliability, and protecting your investment. A comprehensive spring inspection ensures your vehicle is ready for warmer temperatures, road trips, and everyday driving. If you’d like to schedule a spring maintenance check or have questions about preparing your vehicle for the season, our service team is here to help. Let’s make sure your vehicle is road-ready for everything spring has in store. Schedule your Spring auto service at McConnell GMC in Mobile, AL.

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