Winter is almost over so it’s a perfect time to prepare your car for warmer weather. Make sure you are ready for spring and prepare to cruise your way into a new season!
Start with your tires – heavy, consistent snow and ice require snow tires, which absolutely should be replaced with the non-snow variety. If you drive on all season radials, this is the time to rotate them.
Then check your windshield wipers – cold temperatures are hard on rubber compounds, and they are assailed with slush kicked up by traffic. Early spring is a good time to check and replace them if necessary. Check your windshield fluid as well since there’s a good chance winter’s dirt has exhausted the reservoir.
Next, clean your vehicle’s underbody. There’s no magic solution to getting rid of the corrosive salt build-up but the best tool is a high-pressure sprayer. Pay special attention to the area around the front and rear bumpers. Once you’ve thoroughly sprayed the underbody, check for signs of rust and take the necessary steps to stop any small rust spots from eating away at your vehicle.
And finally, examine your breaks – listen for brake noises such as grinding, chatter, or squeals. Even if your brakes aren’t making any distinctive noises, it’s still a good idea for you or your mechanic to determine the amount of wear on the pads or drums.
JK Volvo is located at 1587 East Walnut in Pasadena. You can reach them at (626) 792-2240. You can visit them at www.jkvolvospecialists.com.