Winter time puts a toll on us all, especially our vehicle that has been so great to us taking us from point “A” to point “B”. As Spring slowing but surely makes her way through, we all wonder if a “Tune Up” is needed for the new season approaching.

What does winter do to vehicles?

Alignment/suspension—Salt, gravel, slush…abrasive winter grime can wear the seals of suspension components such as ball joints and tie rods as well as wash away lubrication on suspension points. Worn components can separate and lead to loss of control of the vehicle. Alignment problems caused by potholes can cause vibrations and steering issues that can lead to unsafe handling.

Rims—Road grime can also corrode and rust rims, and potholes can lead to bent rims, both of which can cause leaks in the space between the rim and the tire, and tire damage.

Tires—At spring changeover, winter tires coming off or all-weather tires staying on should be inspected for tread depth, inflation, cracking, sidewall bruising and unusual wear, which can be an indication of suspension problems caused by potholes.

Brakes—Drivers tend to put their brakes to the test over the winter to reduce sliding. Brake pads and rotors should be inspected to ensure optimum performance. Worn shocks can also have a dramatic impact on emergency braking distance.

Filters/fluids—The debris and grime of winter months needs to be kept away from the engine with clean, properly installed filters, the first line of defense for the engine. A clean cabin air filter, often overlooked, improves effectiveness of heating and cooling for improved defrosting and visibility. For fluids, even with an on-board oil reminder system, monthly checks of the fluid quality and quantity is important. An engine oil change is usually prudent at this time.

Wipers—Wiper blades work almost non-stop in the winter, and the rubber is often worn by spring, just in time for frequent rain. More than 90 per cent of your driving decisions are based on what you see, so visibility is critical. If it bought you even a second of reaction time, that could make a big difference in an emergency.

Give our service team a call to book your spring tune up!

You can read more at KalTires.com