7 Tips to get your car ready for spring

It might look like spring, and you may be eager to enjoy the fresh air and take your car out for a spin. But before you hit the road, it's important to make sure your vehicle is just as ready for the new season as you are.   

Here are seven ways to ensure your car is ready for a safe, smooth drive as the seasons change.  

Swap your tires  

Once the snow is gone and the temperature has been consistently above 7°C for seven days, it is time to replace your winter tires. Switching to summer and all-season tires will give you better traction on snow-free roads, making your vehicle safer to drive. 

But there is no need for you to do the swap yourself. Instead, CAA Members in select regions of Greater Ottawa, Sudbury and Thunder Bay can use CAA Mobile Tire Change and get their tires changed right at home.  

Check your brakes  

Over the winter, road salt and grime can quickly accumulate and damage your car's metal components, such as your brakes. These parts rely on clean, properly lubricated parts to work effectively, and that buildup can tear away that protective layer. 

One way to tell if they need attention is by checking how the brake pedal feels. If it feels spongy or mushy when pressed, it could indicate that your brakes need servicing. A good tip is to ask to have your brakes inspected while you're getting your tires changed.  

CAA Members can book CAA’s Mobile Auto Repair to have their brakes checked by a certified technician who can inspect and service the vehicle. 

Fuel up for road trips  

Keep your car road trip ready by fueling up at your nearest Shell Station, where you can save 3¢/L at participating locations. Plus, you can stock up on all your favourite snacks and save 10 per cent on in-store purchases. Conditions apply at participating stores. 

With longer days and warmer weather ahead, it's a simple step that helps keep your spring drives smooth and stress-free.  

Test your car battery 

Winter's freezing temperatures can be tough on a battery. If you need a new car battery or auto parts, Members save 10 per cent at NAPA Auto Parts Canada.  

To protect yourself from future headaches, like a car that won't start, book an at-home battery test with CAA's Mobile Battery Service. A simple battery check can prevent you from being stranded in an empty parking lot.  

Most car batteries last between three to five years. The service includes testing of your charging system, the battery installation and recycling of your old battery - a savings of up to $270!   

Wash away road salt  

Spring cleaning shouldn't be limited to your home. After winter is over, it is time to detail your vehicle as part of your regular maintenance. Deep cleaning your car's interior prevents dust buildup and wear and tear, and removes old, stubborn stains from your dashboard, mats, and leather seats.    

CAA's Mobile Auto Detailing offers two detailing packages and is available only in Ottawa. You can also conveniently clean away the exterior salt buildup and leave your vehicle shining by heading to a Shell Station and save 10 per cent on car washes at participating locations.  

Switch up your windshield wipers  

After all the freezing rain and falling snow, it’s safe to say that your wipers have been used over time. Therefore, it’s important to check whether they need a replacement. Chances are, you are using the winter wipers and may need to switch over to the summer wipers for spring.  

If you notice streaking, skipping, or even cracks, that’s when you know it may be time to replace them. CAA Members can also have their windshield inspected for chips or cracks during routine vehicle checks with CAA’s Mobile Chip Repair.  

Top-up fluids 

Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule to determine when to have your oil changed. If you live in Ottawa, you can get your oil changed conveniently at home with CAA's Mobile Oil Change. When you book your spring check-up to top up fluids, take advantage of CAA Member Benefits by finding the automotive partners closest to your home. 

Life moves fast, and so does the CAA Pit Crew 

Get your car spring ready right at home with CAA. Book your Pit Crew service now.