9-Point Post-Winter Checkup will get your car, truck or SUV ready for Richmond summer ahead

Post-winter checkup car truck SUV Richmond

As we shake off another winter, it's time

to think about that post-winter checkup.

The last days of March are approaching here in Richmond and that is reason to cheer and maybe do a happy dance. After all, this means the winter of 2025-26 is on its way out, into the history books and reaching the end of its ability to clobber us with snow and shiver our bones.

Of course, this Richmond winter may throw us a curve or two – a late snowstorm or freeze. But whatever it has left in it will not last long. We know that. We’re generally better able to survive those surprises with smiles knowing that warmer sunny days are just around the corner.

As winter fades, this is also a good time to check out your car, truck or SUV to see how well it survived winter. Here are nine points to consider when examining your vehicle to see what condition it’s in now that winter is passing.

9-Point Post-Winter Automotive Checkup

Tires: how is the tread? Do they have any cuts or gouges? Do they need to be rebalanced? How’s the air pressure?

Suspension: A complete check of the suspension includes checking …
The Springs/Shocks
The Suspension Bushings

How the car is sitting – leaning, sitting low
Any noises – clunks or squeaks – the car is making as it negotiates potholes and changes in the pavement
Brakes: Are the brake lines leaking? Is the reservoir full in the master cylinder? How are the brake pads and discs?
Battery: Did the extra strain on the battery reduce its capacity to start and run the car, truck or SUV? Are the alternator and starter performing properly? How are the belts?
Fluids: By this time you’ve already checked the brake fluid but what about the engine oil, coolant and washer solvent?
Exhaust System: Are exhaust parts rusted, broken and/or leaking? Is the vehicle louder than it was before?
Lights: From front to back, are the headlights, turn signals, brake lights, tail lights, parking lights, emergency flashers all in proper working order?
AC: You may not need the air conditioning today but, as winter fades, it’s certain that you will before long. Is it providing cool air when you turn it on? Do you want to have it checked out to make sure it’s operating at peak performance?
The Body: Do you have any nicks and scratches to check out? These can allow rust to get under the shell of paint and attack the body parts of your car, truck or SUV. Are any body parts loose or damaged?

This is a fairly exhaustive list. But you can ask your trusted auto repair shop to check them out next time you bring the vehicle in for service.

Just remember, once you’ve given your car, truck or SUV a proper post-winter checkup, you’re ready to focus on the warm days ahead here in Richmond.

Comments

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