April is National Car Care Month, which means it’s time to share a little love to the vehicle that has helped us make it through the hard, cold days of winter.

Very often, when the birds begin to sing, and the tulips pop out of the ground, our first instinct is to prepare our yards for the new season, air out the house from the winter time blues, and travel to our favorite spots! Yet, it’s so easy to forget that we need to care for our vehicles as well.

Here at Joey’s Auto Body Shop, in Chestertown, MD, we understand the concept of wanting to just “hit the road.” However, we also want to remind you that unless you take care of your vehicle, you may be “hitting the road” in your tennis shoes rather than using the rubber on your tires!

Living in rural areas like the beautiful towns in and surrounding Kent County, MD can be an even greater incentive to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming warmer months. After all, we have beautiful rolling hills, wonderful fields of crops, and small, quaint towns scattered throughout our county.

But, we also have cell service that can drop a call mid-sentence or maybe not even allow a call to get through if we’re in a “dead spot”. That’s why we need to be certain our vehicles are in top condition so we don’t find ourselves in the predicament of hiking up the road to call for help.

Therefore, we have put together a few tips to get you started in taking care of your car.

Check The Pressure and Tread Of  Your Tires

As the temperature changes from freezing to thawing and back again, the air pressure in our tires respond in kind. So before running around, grab a simple gauge and ensure they are at the optimum pressure per your vehicle’s specifications.

The tread on your tires also begins to wear thin from the constant fluctuation of the weather. Keeping the appropriate amount of depth in the grooves ensures your vehicle is able to handle spring rains, winding curves, and dirt roads with confidence. Not sure how much tread you need? Use the old penny test. If you can see Lincoln’s head when it’s placed in the tread, it’s time to call Joey’s and get them replaced.

Check Your Wheel Alignment

Ruts and pot holes that develop during winter months can cause more problems than you think. Each time your vehicle drives over or into those damaged sections of road,  the axle and suspension system of your car takes a hit, which can lead to wheel misalignment and uneven tire tread.

By getting your car’s alignment adjusted, not only will your tires remain in good condition longer but you can also enjoy those jaunts through the country without feeling as though you have to grip the steering wheel with both fists to stay in your lane.

Have Your Air Conditioner Checked

We all enjoy the wonderful warmth of spring but, once summer arrives, driving in a car with sweat running down our faces is not something to be enjoyed. Test your A/C. If it’s not blowing out as cold as you would like, book an appointment today to have your air conditioner checked and serviced before you actually need it.

Check Fluids

Temperature changes can also wreak havoc on the many fluids that keep your vehicle running smoothly. Check your vehicle’s oil, transmission, washer, and brake fluid. If it’s been 3,000 miles or 3 months since your last oil change, now is the time to have it done.

Inspect Hoses and Belts

Many people don’t realize that hoses and belts can affect many electrical parts of your vehicle, including power steering and air conditioning. If some of your belts and hoses look a little worn, consider replacing them before the heat of summer damages them further.

Change Your Wiper Blades

Since wiper blades are made with rubber, they can be easily worn down from freezing weather, snow, and even the salt that kicks up onto your windshield when driving down the road. If your blades leave a streak across the windshield while using them, it’s definitely time to get some new ones. Being able to see clearly through your window allows for safer driving.

Wash, Wax, And Check For Rust

Give your car a thorough wash and wax, preferably by hand. Then take the time to inspect your car for tiny rust spots. What seems like just a small spot now will eventually grow into a greater issue.

Small spots can be easily taken care of with a minimum amount of effort. However, if you find rust spots that you would prefer not to tackle, just give us a call. Using our state-of-the-art machinery and environmentally friendly supplies, we can eliminate the rust and restore your vehicle to its original glory.

Let Us Help You

As a full service auto body shop, we can take care of all of these tasks for you. So if you want to spend more time in the garden, hiking, or visiting your nearest park, instead of going through all the steps listed above, give us a call today. Let our family take care of your family by ensuring your car is ready for the warm months ahead.