03/18/2026
Spring is upon us. Prep your car for the upcoming warm weather. Here are a few tips-
1. Check your wheel alignment
Proper wheel alignment allows your car to handle properly. It also means that your tires won't wear out prematurely. If you notice your car constantly pulls to one side or doesn't drive straight ahead when your steering wheel is centered, then it might be a good idea to visit the shop and have it checked.
An alignment can improve your car's handling, and prevent you from having to spend hundreds on a premature set of tires.
2. Check your tire tread
Checking your tire tread is something you should do several times a year. It's important to make sure that you have adequate tire tread, and that the wear is even. To check tread depth, simply place the edge a penny into the tread of each tire, near the center. If the tread doesn't cover any portion of Honest Abe's head, you likely need new tires. Also, if there is excessive wear on the edge of any tires, it may be time for a new set and a four-wheel alignment.
3. Make sure your battery is strong
Cold weather is particularly harmful for car batteries. Your battery can deteriorate very quickly if you live in a harsh climate, becoming much less reliable as a consequence. If your battery is more than four years old and sometimes takes a few seconds to start your motor, you should get it tested and, if necessary, replaced.
4. Top off your coolant
As temperatures rise, it's important to make sure your car's engine is getting adequately cooled. If the coolant light on your dash has been illuminated or if you simply haven't checked the coolant level in a while, open up the hood and make sure the fluid is at the proper level. Most cars have a fluid level gauge. Stop by and we will gladly check your fluids for you.
5. Check your brakes
Before taking long road trips during the spring and summer, make sure your car has enough remaining brake life. If the brake check lamp is illuminated on your instrument cluster, or if your car's braking is noisy or rough, then there's a good chance you need new pads. If you're not sure, you can sometimes observe the level of your brake pads by simply looking between the spokes of your wheels. If you suspect your brakes may be worn out, please stop by for a thorough inspection by one of our technicians.
6. Clean!
Clean and vacuum the inside of your car. Cold weather has likely led to a buildup of gunk and miscellaneous items that you promised you'd clean once the weather got warmer. That time has come. Lug the vacuum to your garage, driveway or parking space and give the interior a nice big cleanse. You'll feel so much better after you do.