Holman Offers Spring Tune-up Checklist for Drivers Following Harsh Winter
Drivers should inspect key components and prioritize preventative maintenance to ensure their vehicle is in peak operating condition following several months of severe winter weather
Holman, a global automotive services leader, is providing a spring tune-up checklist designed to help drivers ensure their vehicle is in proper operating condition following several months of unforgiving winter driving. Inclement winter weather and poor road conditions put additional stress on drivers as well as their vehicles, making it increasingly important to inspect key components and prioritize routine maintenance.
“Severe weather can take a significant toll on your vehicle and after an especially harsh winter across much of the country including blizzard conditions in the Midwest and Northeast along with extensive ice storms as far south Florida, most vehicles are likely in need of a thorough maintenance check,” said Holman’s Senior Vice President of Aftersales Salvo Sparacio. “Giving your vehicle a spring tune-up allows you to address minor repairs before they become a bigger issue, helping you avoid expensive surprises down the road.”
Holman’s spring tune-up checklist includes:
- Check Alignment – Hitting potholes during the winter months often leads to alignment issues. When a vehicle is not properly aligned, it is likely to experience uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel economy. Proper alignment is essential for optimizing performance, ensuring driver safety, and maximizing the longevity of the vehicle’s tires.
- Inspect Windshield & Wiper Blades – Check the vehicle’s windshield for small chips or cracks. Repair any minor issues before they spread. If they’re allowed to spread, the entire windshield may need to be replaced which can be costly, especially on vehicles with advanced driver-assistance systems. Also be sure to inspect wiper blades. Snow and ice can increase wear, and they may need to be replaced.
- Test Vehicle’s Battery – The vehicle’s battery works overtime during the winter to keep the car warm and running. Have a battery check performed as part of the vehicle’s routine maintenance to be sure it is fully charged and in good working condition. If the vehicle struggles to start, it might be time for a replacement to avoid unexpected failure.
- Monitor Tire Pressure & Wear – Temperature fluctuations can significantly affect tire pressure, impacting fuel efficiency and tire longevity. Inclement weather also leads to additional wear and makes tires more susceptible to punctures. Regularly monitor tire pressure, tread levels, and wear patterns to help mitigate flats and the need for premature replacements.
- Brake Inspection – Winter weather conditions, especially road salt, can wreak havoc on the vehicle’s brakes. Be sure to have brakes properly inspected to detect thinning brake pads or other potential issues early to ensure timely replacement and prevent more costly repairs or accidents.
Taking vehicles in for service may not be top-of-mind as warmer spring weather begins to arrive, but it is necessary to keep vehicles in prime condition and ensure they are safe to drive. For additional information about Holman or to schedule service, please visit HolmanAuto.com.
