While San Antonio may not be known for white winters, a whole season of cooler temperatures and harsh weather can still render significant damage to your vehicle. As we get ready to welcome in the warmer months, there’s no better time to show your car some TLC. Agencia de Seguros de Accesso, LLC (A Abana Insurance) is here to remind you that April is National Car Care Month. Before we dive into a spring and summer full of driving, it’s important to invest time into properly cleaning and caring for your vehicle. Regular car maintenance is a great way to help extend the life of your vehicle and reduce the need for costly repairs later. 

Read on to discover five top-tier spring car maintenance tips: 

1.   Conduct a spring cleaning 

Spring cleaning is not just for your home! A winter filled with grit and grime can leave your car looking less than fresh. Any exposure to salt, sand, or moisture may cause damage to your car’s upholstery, paint, wheels, and glass. AutoZone recommends a thorough spring cleaning that includes a car wash, deep vacuum, and wipe down of all plastic and glass. Try using a microfiber towel and an interior car cleaner to ensure a deep clean, and don’t forget the trunk. If you don’t feel up to a DIY clean, simply head to your local car wash.  

2.   Check your tires 

Prolonged exposure to cold air can also cause your tires to deflate. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recommends inspecting your tires at least once a month and before any long road trip. Examine the tire treads closely and look out for any uneven wear or insufficient tread. The tread should be at least 2/32nd of an inch or greater on all tires. Remember to not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself, instead look for the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, which can be found in your owner’s manual and on a placard located on the driver’s door frame. 

3.   Inspect your wipers 

Spring signals the beginning of the rainy season in San Antonio, so it’s important to make sure your wipers are functioning optimally. Check the flexible rubber edge of each wiper blade for nicks and cuts. If you notice any damage or your wipers are leaving behind streaks after passing, it may be time to replace them. 

4.   Top off fluid levels 

Similar to your tires, your vehicle’s fluid levels can be greatly affected by fluctuations in both moisture and temperature. Fluids such as your coolant, engine oil, or brake fluid can suffer from moisture intrusion or contamination and lose their viscosity. Before any long car travel, check the color and level of the following fluids, or bring your vehicle to a licensed mechanic for a top-off: 

·      Engine oil 

·      Transmission fluid 

·      Engine coolant 

·      Brake fluid 

·      Power steering fluid 

5.   Test your battery 

According to AutoZone, long bouts of cold weather can put significant stress on your car’s battery. If your car’s battery died over the winter or required a boost, its capacity may have diminished. Bring your car to a licensed mechanic to test and charge your battery before the summer season. For hybrid-electric vehicles, keep gasoline in the tank to support the gasoline engine. 

As we prepare for the wildflower blooms and rainstorms of a Texas spring, it is equally imperative to prepare our vehicles with routine maintenance. Beyond fluid checks and tire changes, securing the appropriate car insurance is a key part of responsible driving.  

Reach out to A Abana Insurance at 210-899-5401 to explore our diverse coverage options or receive a free quote today!