During the spring, many vehicles are suddenly exposed to the elements after being hibernating in cold winter conditions. While the emergence of warmer weather brings many benefits, it can also cause a number of issues for vehicles. To ensure every vehicle is well-prepared for these problems, here are ten common vehicle issues during spring to be aware of.

1. Loss of Tire Pressure
   When temperatures drop, the air pressure in tires can decrease disproportionately compared to other components of the vehicle. This creates a less stable overall driving experience, and can lead to faulty vehicle handling. Spring temperatures that are closer to summer will cause the air to expand, and raise the tire pressure. It is important to fill the tires with enough air as soon as the temperatures begin to rise consistently.
2. Low Battery Voltage
   During the winter, a car’s low battery voltage can be caused by a variety of factors. Between the cold weather and slow engine running, there is a chance that the battery is not able to keep up with the sudden jump in temperature due to spring. If a car is slow to start or there is an extra strain on the battery, it will be more important to check the voltage and replace the battery if necessary.
3. Increased Wear and Tear on the Suspension
   The snow and salt that often appear after colder temperatures can take its toll on the suspension of a vehicle. With the melting of the snow and the end of the salting, it is important to make sure that there are no issues with the shocks, struts or ball joints. If there is a problem, try to fix it as soon as possible to reduce potential damage.
4. Accumulated Debris
   When we experience winter, the usual rain, snow and wind cause a lot of debris to accumulate underneath the vehicle, creating an ideal environment for potentially damaging rust and corrosion. These can further damage the vehicle’s performance in the long run. It is important to take some time in the spring to check the underside for debris and if necessary, clean it off.
5. Leaks
   Any car that sat in freezing weather for a long time has the chances of getting affected by leaks. Once the snow and cold temperatures start to disappear, the chances of having leaks increases. It is important to regularly look and smell for any type of leaks that occur during the spring.
6. Oil Breakdown
   The cold weather can affect the oil in a vehicle, leading to a faster breakdown rate for the oil it produces. To ensure maximum performance of the oil, the older oil should be replaced with new oil as the temperatures start to rise.
7. Coolant Leakage
   As with any kind of liquid, a sharp temperature drop can cause the coolant in a vehicle to expand. This creates an extra strain on the hose and the radiator, making it more likely to leak at some point. It is important to check the radiator and the hoses of the vehicle regularly to ensure there is no leakage.
8. Frequently Clogged Air Filters
   Air filters can also suffer from the winter elements, leading to a clogged filter that affects the performance of the vehicle. To ensure the filter is properly cleaned, it is important to use a vacuum or brush to clean the filter in the spring.
9. Related Components damage
   As many of the components of a vehicle suffer during the winter, it is easy for related components to become damaged as well. This includes brakes, exhaust systems, brake hoses and spark plugs. To ensure all the components continue to function as intended, it is important to have them checked in the spring.
10. Inspect the Sunroof
    Lastly, if a vehicle has a sunroof, it also important to inspect it for any damages made from the cold and winter elements. This means that any cracks or corrosion should be addressed as soon as possible in order to maintain the life of the sunroof.

These are the most common vehicle problems during spring. Many people underrate the importance of keeping their cars in good condition during the warmer months, but it is important to ensure that the vehicle is prepared for the season. Taking the time to detect, address and repair any problem is essential to ensure a safe and efficient drive.

Spring Into Great Car Care with HEART Auto Care, Evanston

Wintertime isn’t the only time when driving can be a hassle. With the weather constantly fluctuating, spring is the perfect time to make sure your vehicle is ready for whatever shakes up the road. HEART Auto Care in Evanston specializes in providing quality car repair and maintenance services to ensure your car can handle whatever surprises spring throws its way.

With our wide range of services, HEART Auto Care can provide all the care and maintenance your vehicle needs. From oil changes and tire rotations to brake repair, battery replacement, and more, the experts at HEART Auto Care have you covered. In addition, we only use high quality parts and products to provide top-notch service and to help your car maximize its performance. And to give you peace of mind when it comes to your car, we can also perform a full inspection to make sure all of your car’s systems are running smoothly.

So don’t wait to get your vehicle in top condition for spring! Put your trust in the reputable technicians at HEART Auto Care in Evanston for all your car care needs. Give us a call today and get your car ready for all the changes the season brings!

Don’t wait to spruce up your car for spring—make an appointment with HEART Auto Care in Evanston to get your vehicle ready!