As spring settles in and temperatures begin to climb, April is the ideal time to get your vehicle ready for the demands of summer driving. Whether you’re planning long road trips, weekend getaways, or just more time on the road in warm weather, routine maintenance now can help prevent breakdowns, improve performance, and extend the life of your vehicle. Here’s a checklist of the key maintenance tasks you should take care of in April to ensure your car is ready for the summer season.
Check and Replace Engine Oil
Start by checking your oil level and condition. Winter driving can be hard on engine oil, especially if you’ve been taking short trips in cold weather. If your oil looks dark or hasn’t been changed in a while, April is the perfect time for a fresh oil change. Clean oil helps keep your engine running cooler and smoother as temperatures rise.
Inspect the Cooling System
Your radiator and cooling system work harder during the warmer months, so it’s important to make sure everything is in good condition now. Check your coolant level, inspect hoses for cracks or leaks, and look at the radiator for signs of corrosion or damage. If your coolant is old or contaminated, consider a flush and refill to prevent overheating once summer hits.
Test the Battery
Winter weather can weaken your battery, and rising temperatures can worsen an already weak one. In April, test your battery’s voltage and inspect the terminals for corrosion. If your battery is more than three years old or has shown signs of slow starts, it may be time to replace it before summer puts additional strain on your electrical system.
Check Tire Condition and Pressure
Cold weather can cause tires to lose pressure, and worn tread can affect your car’s handling and fuel efficiency. Inspect each tire for signs of uneven wear, bulges, or cracks, and make sure the tread depth is adequate. Also, check and adjust tire pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended level, as air pressure will increase with the warmer weather.
Replace Wiper Blades and Refill Washer Fluid
After months of snow, salt, and grime, your wiper blades may be streaking or skipping. Replace them if needed, and top off your windshield washer fluid to ensure clear visibility during spring and summer rainstorms.
Inspect Brakes
Salt and moisture from winter roads can lead to rust and corrosion on brake components. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibrations when braking, have your system inspected. Even if you haven’t noticed any symptoms, a quick brake check in April helps ensure your vehicle stops safely in all conditions.
Top Off or Replace Fluids
Now’s the time to check all essential fluids—transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant. If any of them are low or dirty, top them off or schedule a flush as recommended in your owner’s manual.
Final Thoughts
April is the perfect month to take care of scheduled maintenance before summer driving begins. By addressing oil, coolant, battery, tires, brakes, and other essential systems now, you’ll set your car up for a safe, reliable, and enjoyable season on the road. A professional inspection can give you added peace of mind, so if you’re unsure where to start, schedule a service visit and make sure your vehicle is summer-ready.