It was a long, tough winter, and just as we all need a lift to feel ready for spring, your car can also use a little care to make it ready for driving season.
Winter driving is hard on cars. Road salt corrodes their metal parts, cold makes the battery work harder and puts strain on the engine, and potholes can damage their suspension and wheels.
But now that the weather has warmed up, it’s the perfect time to give your car a spring refresher. Here’s a checklist to help you make sure your vehicle is in its best running order before you hit the road for a summer trip.
First, when was the last time you checked and changed your oil? Your vehicle’s manufacturer will recommend how often you should change the oil. Checking the oil level—if your vehicle has a dipstick—should be a matter of routine, at least once a month.
Starting out in the spring with a fresh oil change and new filter can help to support better fuel economy. High-quality motor oil such as Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic maximizes engine protection, helps extend engine life, and offers excellent performance in extreme temperatures.
Even better, if you purchase a qualifying Pennzoil Platinum® Full Synthetic oil change at a participating location up until May 31, you can receive a $25 digital gift card.
While you are getting the oil changed, be sure to have the service centre also check other vital liquids your vehicle depends on, like power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid and washer fluid. All of these are essential to your vehicle’s proper and safe operation.
Second, check your tires. If you aren’t switching to summer rubber, have your tires inspected for tread wear, possible cracking from exposure to the cold and hardening of the compound.
Also, be sure to regularly check tire pressures and get them rotated to ensure even wear. Recommended tire pressures can typically be found inside your driver’s door if you aren’t sure what to inflate them to.
Third, have your car’s brakes and suspension inspected. With the vehicle up on a hoist, your vehicle technician can spot signs of wear and tear, broken parts or loose fasteners. Brake pads should be replaced before they start to squeal, but if you hear that it’s a definite warning sign, you need to have them attended to.
Also, get the brakes inspected if you feel shaking or vibration or if they are taking longer to stop.
Last, get your battery checked. People often don’t think about this vital part of their vehicle, but if it isn’t charging properly, you might find out the hard way by not being able to start the engine. The service centre can quickly test the battery’s voltage to make sure it’s still up to the job of getting you going every day.
The great news is the items on this spring readiness checklist can be completed at your favourite service centre. And don’t forget about Pennzoil’s national promotion. See for details.
