Vehicle overview. How to prepare your car for spring? (video)
Find out what to do to avoid car problems after the winter. Changing tires is not enough. It is worth paying attention to suspension components, brake system and cooling system.
The period when drivers change winter tires for summer tires has just begun. However, in order for our car to be fully operational in the summer, it is worth checking the operation of other mechanisms that are crucial for the safety of our vehicle.
With the first signs of spring, most Polish drivers think about washing their car and changing tires.
See also: Driving in the rain - what to look out for
It is worth remembering that experts recommend replacing winter tires with summer tires when the daytime temperature exceeds 7-8 degrees Celsius. “In my opinion, it's worth arranging a tire change now so as not to waste time standing in long lines at the service center,” encourages Adam Suder, owner of the MTJ vulcanization plant in Konjsk.
Tire tread and age control
Before installing summer tires, check whether our tires are suitable for further use. To check their condition, you should start by measuring the tread height. According to the traffic rules, it should be at least 1,6 millimeters, but experts recommend a minimum height of 3 millimeters.
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Brake fluid replacement
In addition, you need to pay attention to whether the tire has mechanical damage, including deep scuffs on the side or unevenly worn tread. When replacing, you should also check the age of our slippers, because rubber wears out over time. – Tires older than 5-6 years are ready to be replaced and their further use can be dangerous. The date of manufacture, consisting of four digits, can be found on the side wall. For example, the number 2406 means the 24th week of 2006,” explains Adam Suder.
To check the age of our tires, all you have to do is look for the four-digit code on the side of the tire. The tire shown in the photo was produced in week 39, 2010.
After replacement, it is also worth taking care of our winter tires, which we must wash and store in a shady and cool place.
SPRING REVIEW
However, one replacement of "elastic bands" is not enough. After winter, experts recommend going to a workshop to inspect the car, which covers the most important elements that affect driving safety.
– At the service center, mechanics should inspect the brake system, checking the thickness of the brake discs and friction linings. The main actions also include checking the suspension components, for example, for oil leaks from the shock absorbers, explains Pavel Adarchin, service manager for Toyota Romanowski in Kielce.
After the winter, it is also worth replacing the wipers, but it is better not to buy the cheapest ones, which can creak during operation.
“During the inspection, a good mechanic should also look for possible engine leaks and check the condition of the driveshaft covers, which are more prone to damage in harsh winter conditions,” warns Pavel Adarchin, adding that the inspection should also include the battery or cooling system of the drive unit.
Dust filter and air conditioner
The beginning of spring is the time when we must take care of the ventilation system in our car. To keep pollen and dust out, most car manufacturers install a cabin filter, also known as a pollen filter, in their cars. If the windows in our car fog up, the reason may be a clogged and wet cabin filter.
In vehicles equipped with air conditioning, it is worth contacting the appropriate service center now. Professionals will check the operation of the entire system, removing a possible fungus, and, if necessary, replenish the coolant content.
