Winter 2017 has brought with it a whole range of temperatures and precipitation…and we’re thankful to say that snow wasn’t around as often as usual. Even though it seems like we have one last winter nuisance to tackle, it’s definitely important (and much more fun) to start thinking about spring! The most important thing on our mind is our car and how we can best prepare it for the eventual warmer weather. We put together a short list of some steps you can take to make sure your vehicle is ready to go come summertime. Keep reading!
1.) Replace Your Wiper Blades
A typical New Jersey winter often has many periods of ice and snow, which can put a lot of strain on your windshield wipers as they are usually working harder than normal. Give them a thorough inspection and make sure there are no cracks, tears or anything that would make them less effective during those warm-weather downpours. If you discover any kind of wear and tear, it would be best to purchase new wipers and replace your old ones – this will ensure the safest summer driving. It’s better to get it done ahead of time than to realize you need new ones in the middle of a thunderstorm 😉 You’ll thank us later!
2.) Check Your Charging System and Battery
It’s pretty well known that cold weather can do a number on the batteries and charging systems in our vehicles. While this year’s winter didn’t boast terribly frigid temperatures, we would still advise giving your car a thorough checkup. Make sure to look for any corrosion that might have happened in addition to making sure all of your connections are clean and tight. It’s also important to double check that your battery is securely mounted to prevent any future problems. As a general rule of thumb, if your battery is older than five years, you should think about getting a replacement.
3.) Inspect Your Belts and Hoses
Cold temperatures are notorious for hardening or damaging rubber, which makes it even more important to check on your vehicle’s belts and hoses. Look them over for hardening, softening, leaking, cracks, blistering, or any other visual damage. Additionally, you should check for looseness, cracks, frays or glazing. If you notice any of these things, it’s most likely time to have them replaced. Better to deal with it sooner than later so your summer can be smooth sailing!
4.) Check Air Conditioning System
You don’t have to be a life-long resident of New Jersey to know that our summers can either be perfectly gorgeous or be ridiculously hot and humid – most of the times a mixture of both. Getting into your after it’s been sitting in the sun is never an enjoyable moment so it’s obviously important to make sure your system is working properly. If you find it’s not producing cold air or is making an unfamiliar sound, it’s definitely worth checking it out. It’s possible to survive summer without AC – but you shouldn’t have to!
5.) Get Your Oil changed
Any proper list of maintenance tips comes with getting your oil changed. It’s always important, no matter the season, to get your oil changed on a regular basis. Failing to do so can result in serious engine damage to your vehicle, which ultimately leads to very costly repairs. It’s best to get your oil changed every six months or every 7,000 miles – whichever happens first. A little bit of time every so often can extend the life of your car and make your ownership experience that much more enjoyable.
All we have to do is get through the next few weeks and we’re on the home stretch to spring! Now is the time to make sure your car is in its best shape for what’s to come. If not, we’re always here to help! Visit Lester Glenn Auto Group at any of our locations in Toms River and Ocean Township, New Jersey.
