Rid Your Car Of Winter!

As one of the top three snowiest winters in recorded history, the harsh weather has consistently impacted commutes over the past couple of months. Slush, salt, sand, grime, and frigid temperatures have impacted vehicles from the tires to wiper blades. With the hope that winter is on its way out and spring on its way in, it's time for your car to have a once-over and undo what winter has done.

• A good detail will do the trick. Salt, sand, and grime can cause corrosion underneath cars. Visit the local detail shop and get the undercarriage thoroughly cleansed. While there, ask them to clean all carpets, window slots, vents, and interior seating to remove all winter debris. It's also a good idea to pop the hood and remove any leaves or frozen elements.

• Replace wiper blades. Between the rain, sleet, snow, and hail, windshield wipers have done their fair share of work. They have frozen and defrosted numerous times. With the spring showers approaching, it is recommended that drivers change their wiper blades to ensure safe travel.

• Keep your tires turning. Cold weather can cause tires to be under-inflated and the upcoming warm weather can cause them to become overinflated. Visit your local tire shop and have them inflate, or deflate, all four tires to the appropriate tire pressure standards. Before leaving, have the mechanic inspect tire treads to ensure proper traction support for the upcoming rain season. If the treads have worn down, it is time to replace the tires.

• Time to align. Once your tires are ready for spring, have your local mechanic perform an alignment. This will reinstate the balance in your car that has been impacted by the  numerous potholes. A typical alignment will average $80, though well worth it.  Proper alignment can catch tire and suspension issues before they become major repairs!

• Top off all fluids. The extra power needed to make it through the winter elements can pollute oil quicker than usual. While aligning and checking your tires, have the mechanic change your oil. Even if your mileage indicates that it is not time for a change, you want to make sure the oil is clean. Also check all break, transmission, and windshield wiper fluids.

Now that you're ready to hit the road in warmer weather, don't forget to make sure all insurance premiums, inspections, and registration renewals are up to date!