Spring is here, and the roads are changing. Drivers can go faster, pushing their autos that may not be as ready for the change in weather as the people behind the steering wheels. At Wiygul Automotive, we recommend a Spring Inspection and Cleaning, just like you do for your house, to shake out the cobwebs and get ready for the sun.
First, it is the perfect occasion to flush and fill your radiator. Our service teams take the opportunity to also check the radiator for leaks and any corrosion that could lead to one. We then examine the hoses for cracks or dry rot and check the clamps to make certain they secure the hoses to the radiator and engine. Our service technicians also examine the cooling fan and thermostat to ensure proper operation. We also recommend flushing your radiator again in the Fall.
The arrival of Spring is an excellent time to flush your transmission as well. As the fluid coating and protecting your gears ages, it becomes darker and is less effective at protecting them. Regular flushing according to the manufacturer’s suggestion lengthens the life of your car and makes shifting more efficient with less wear and tear to your transmission. If you noticed that your car was slow to shift from reverse to drive, it is time to flush and replace your transmission fluid.
Before it gets hot enough to become uncomfortable, let Wiygul Automotive examine your air conditioner. Our air specialists check your Freon levels and perform a complete inspection of your A/C’s compressor, condenser, evaporator, and blower motors to ensure only cool; dry air is flowing through your car’s vents.
Balancing and rotating your tires is a good precaution to take as well. Both of these services are important to keep tread wear even and improve gas mileage, especially now that drivers are traveling farther and faster on clear roads. Winter weather increases the number of potholes, so tire balance and rotation provides a smoother ride for springtime day trips as well. Regardless of the season, you should always rotate and balance your tires between 5000 to 8000 miles.
Before you start getting away for the weekend again, it is a good idea to let us check your steering and suspension. If your car is pulling to one side, it may not be the sleet and snow making driving more difficult. Even minor adjustments can improve turning ability while reducing bouncing, shaking, and uneven tread wear.
Preparing your car for spring does not have to take days in the shop or dig so far into your budget that you can only get away for two days instead of three. At Wiygul Automotive Clinics, we offer thorough inspections and maintenance at very reasonable prices. Call us now at 866-702-8050 to schedule an appointment at one of our clinics in or around Alexandria or our newest location in Burke.
