TIPS: PROTECT YOUR CAR

TIPS: PROTECT YOUR CAR



While it is wise in the fall to prepare your car well for the tough months ahead, so is good maintenance in the spring. In a way, it's the automotive equivalent of spring cleaning the house.
During the winter, vehicles accumulate sand, salt, mud and dirt, both indoors and outdoors, not to mention the items that are dragged throughout the season. Now is the time to fix it. The walks on sunny days to come will only be more enjoyable!
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Tires and Mechanics

When temperatures stabilize above 7 degrees Celsius during the day, it is safe to reinstall your all-season tires. Take this opportunity to inspect the tread and make sure the wear is still even. If not, the wheel alignment may need to be corrected the next time you visit the garage. Next, check the pressure taking into account the vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. As CAA-Quebec points out, an under-inflated four-pound tire increases gasoline consumption by 2%.



It is common for an engine oil change to be necessary in the spring. If this is not your case, a routine under the hood exam is still advisable. For example, check whether all the different reservoirs are full (engine oil, coolant, windshield washer fluid, etc.), whether there is any rust and whether the filters are in good condition.
The engine air filter must not be too clogged with dust and dirt. Start by cleaning it with a vacuum cleaner, then with water (but dry it completely), says CAA-Quebec. If it is too dirty, it will be time to replace it. Don't forget the cabin air filter (often accessible behind the glove box), because with all the pollen and particles in the air in spring and summer, you will need them!
Outside

Ideally, we start by spraying with good pressure the entire body, moldings, rims, inside of the fenders and, as much as possible, the underside of the vehicle, where the most dirt is encrusted in winter. . Then, using a soft cloth or a sponge, wash everything with soapy water - preferably using a product specifically designed for the automobile (non-abrasive and non-greasy) - then dry with a chamois. The wax is at your discretion, but gives even better results.

Next, it is recommended to apply a protective coating to the rubber seals of the doors, windows and trunk to prevent them from drying out and cracking during the summer. Similarly, check your wiper blades; if you had any installed specifically for winter, you must now change them.

Also very important: find places where rust is trying to set in and deal with it quickly. With this tough enemy, we must not wait!
Passenger compartment

Like the exterior of the vehicle, the interior also bears traces of winter: calcium, slush, small rocks and more. They are most evident in the area rugs and the carpet below, but they can also be found on the seat cushions and at the bottom of the doors.


The vacuum cleaner is your first ally, followed by a solution of water and vinegar (take advantage of a beautiful sunny day to hang your rugs on the clothesline). A cloth dampened with hot water is sufficient for the dashboard, doors and leather seats. Do not use an ammonia solution, which could damage the plastic.
Finally, say goodbye to all those things you no longer need in the spring: bags of salt, shovel traction grates, snow brush, etc. Your emergency kit can also melt to keep only the essentials during the hot season. A cleaning of the storage compartments does the most good too. Down with waste and unnecessary items!