Don't Let Winter Damage Linger: Spring Car Care

The transition from winter to spring in Quebec brings a welcome change in weather, with warmer temperatures and the return of colourful blooms. Just as we do spring cleaning in our homes, it's equally important to give our vehicles some extra care and maintenance after the tough winter months. Spring cleaning isn't just for houses – our cars need it too after battling the elements all winter long. Our expert team at Lallier Honda is here to guide you through the essential steps to get your car ready for spring driving conditions. Follow their advice, and you'll be cruising into spring with a vehicle that looks and runs like new.

Tire Change: The First Step 

Those winter tires were indispensable for safe travels when ice and snow covered the roads. But now that spring has arrived, it's time to remove them. Driving on winter tires in warmer weather can lead to premature wear and reduced performance. However, timing is important for the swap to regular tires. Montreal springs can be fickle, with winter-like weather lingering some years. Most experts recommend waiting until daytime highs are consistently above 7°C before changing to summer or all-season tires.

The Joy (and Necessity) of a Clean Vehicle

Over the winter, salt, calcium, sand, and grime can accumulate inside your car's cabin and on the exterior. Giving your vehicle a thorough cleaning inside and out is important both for aesthetic reasons and to prevent potential damage.

For the interior, give it a deep cleaning, paying special attention to floor mats, seats, and surfaces like the dashboard. Those nooks and crannies can harbour debris.

It's not just an aesthetic issue for the exterior – failing to remove the buildup of winter residue like salt from your vehicle's undercarriage and body can have serious consequences. Corrosion, underbody deterioration, alignment issues, and even exhaust system damage can occur without a proper cleaning. Use quality automotive detergents, and be sure to thoroughly clean the undercarriage. Protecting components like the suspension from salt and sand will prevent costly repairs down the road.

Fluid Checks: An Essential Step

Winter driving conditions put extra strain on your vehicle's various fluids. Before spring gets into full swing, it's important to have these vital fluids checked and topped up as needed:

Windshield washer fluid should be switched to a spring/summer blend. The motor oil should also be changed since most experts recommend oil changes twice a year. Other fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid also need to be inspected. 

Checking and replenishing your vehicle's fluids, especially the oil, is vital for keeping everything running smoothly for years to come.

Automotive Maintenance: A Way to Save Money

We get it – spending money on maintenance can be a tough sell when funds are tight. But the truth is, staying on top of routine maintenance like oil changes is one of the best ways to save money in the long run. Skipping these key services may save a bit now but can lead to much more expensive repairs or replacements down the road. For example, failing to change the oil regularly can cause engine damage or failure. Replacing an engine or even a whole vehicle is far costlier than budgeting for basic maintenance tasks. At the end of the day, think of these spring maintenance expenses as an investment that will keep your car running reliably and safely for many miles and years to come.

Conclusion

Don't let the winter grime and wear linger into spring. Follow these simple maintenance tips to get your beloved vehicle refreshed and ready to tackle the warmer months ahead. Our experts at Lallier Honda are standing by to answer any questions or handle all your spring maintenance needs. With some basic cleaning, fluid replenishing, and tire swapping, your car will be looking and driving its best this spring in Montreal.