Spring Car Maintenance

The weather is starting to warm up again, so we thought we’d take this opportunity to talk about some of the things you can do to make your car ready for the coming heat.

Wash and wax

Summer sun can be particularly harsh on a car exterior. A sun-faded or peeling paint exterior makes a car look old more than any other single thing. Protecting it before the more intense heat begins is a wise option, especially considering our summers.

Air conditioning service

If you need air conditioning service or repair, don’t wait until it gets hot before you have it done. It’s a little planning that can have a significant impact on the comfort of your ride. Also, it’s easier to get in and out of a shop before the first big heat hits, and they’re swamped.

Tires and brakes

Check air pressure of tires regularly. It can prevent a blowout at an inconvenient time. During the summer, air pressure should be monitored every month because heat creates fluctuations in tire pressure. Watch tread for signs of uneven wear and replace tires before they become a hazard. Rotation, balance, and alignment will all extend the life of your tires. Best days to have them done: Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Have your brakes checked as well, or at least check them yourself*. The only thing better than a car which will run when it’s supposed to go is a car which will stop when it’s supposed to stay. Also, having regular brake jobs can prevent more expensive brake repairs down the road.

*Look through your tire spokes and you should see your brake pad compressed against your brake rotor. If the padding is less than ¼ inch thick(about 3 millimeters), you should consider having your brakes inspected, especially if it’s been a long time since your last inspection.

Interior

After another year of some pretty long miles, even your interior might need some attention. If your seat, steering wheel cover, dash mat or floor mats need to be replaced, round out your Spring car care by adding these to your shopping list.

Fluids

If the washer fluid needs topping off, add that when you check the other fluid levels. Power steering fluid, brake, and transmission fluid levels should all be monitored. Oil doesn’t need to be replaced as often as every 4000 miles: check your owner’s manual and follow the guidelines suggested by the car manufacturer. Not only will you save some money, but you’ll be doing the environment a favor, too. Don’t forget the filter.

Battery

Get your automobile ready for the summer.

Summer heat is tough on batteries. Some places will check your battery when they change your oil. Or, you can go to an auto parts store, where they’ll check it for free, While you’re checking your car battery, check your lights, as well, to make sure they’re ready for the coming shorter days.

Wiper blades

Wiper blades rot fast in the summer sun, even if you haven’t used them. So, check them and change them as needed.

If you show a little love to your car, it will keep it on the road longer and be a safer ride.

If you are in the Phoenix Metro area and want a no-hassle cash offer on an old, wrecked, unwanted, salvage or burned car, SUV, van or truck, give us a call at I Buy Junk Cars. 480-771-8290.