SERVICE GARAGE: 
763-792-4949

2220 108th Lane NE
Blaine, MN

SERVICE GARAGE:  763-792-4949

 

signs

There can be several signs your vehicle should be in for an inspection.  Spring is a time to get outside and breathe fresh air again.  Whether we like it or not, it’s also a time where some things in our lives and environment need some TLC.  From the dead growth in our gardens to the potholes we need to avoid on the way to the grocery store, spring signals a time for a reset.  Nothing needs a reset more than your vehicle.  Your car takes a hit in those winter months which makes your spring tune up and vehicle inspection an essential part of your spring reset.

Just like the buds on trees and the melting snow, your car will give you signs that it’s ready for that spring tune up.  If you’ve been wondering if you need a full tune up and inspection this spring, here are 5 signs to look for.

 

1. When you experience a rough ride

From ice & snow to salt on the roadway, winter can wreak havoc on your tires and rims.  If your car feels like it is riding a little less smoothly, it may be time for you to have your tires and rims inspected.  During your springtime maintenance check up, your mechanic can rotate and balance your tires, as well as, inspect the tread life of your tires and look for any damage to your rims.  Maintaining your tires and rims can make for a smoother ride all summer long.

2. When your steering wheel pulls or shakes

Over the course of driving in any Minnesota winter, your vehicle will experience wear and tear that can impact your alignment.  How do you know that your vehicle needs an alignment?  Some signs include if your car pulls to the right or left when your steering wheel is steady, uneven tread wear on your tires (either inside or outside), and a steering wheel that shakes when driving at higher speeds. If you’re experiencing any of these issues while driving, it’s best to get your alignment checked during your spring tune up and maintenance inspection. Making sure your vehicle has proper alignment each spring can ensure safe driving all year long.

3. Signs when basic driving becomes more difficult

If everyday driving becomes more difficult than it used to be, it may be a sign that it’s time for that spring tune up and maintenance inspection. Some signs to look for are a steering wheel that is more difficult to turn, brakes that don’t work as well as they did last fall, or you notice that your car is having a harder time shifting gears. If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it may be time to check your fluid levels like coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and in some cases, hydraulic fluid. These fluids are essential to your vehicle performance and neglecting these fluid levels may affect the durability of your car.

4. When nighttime driving is challenging

When you drive at night, one thing is essential – you need to see. Our winter weather can cause wear and tear on your headlights, your taillights, and turn signals making it harder to see and making night driving more dangerous. If you’ve noticed a decrease in visibility at night, a yellow or haze film on your lights, or know that you have a burned out bulb, this is a clear sign that it’s time for that spring maintenance inspection. Take your vehicle in to have your bulbs changed and your visibility checked to ensure a safe drive at night all year long.

5. When it’s hard to see out your front windshield

This may seem like a no-brainer, but when you can’t see out your front windshield it’s time for a windshield wiper replacement. Our winter weather can dull your wiper blades which can impact how clean your front windshield is and clearly you can see when driving. We recommend replacing your windshield wipers every spring and your spring maintenance inspection is a great time to get that done.

Your vehicle, just like any other item you own, will show you signs of a need for maintenance.  If you are noticing any of these signs as you’re driving around town, it’s a signal that it’s time for your spring maintenance inspection. If you experience these or any other signs that your vehicle needs some attention, we’re here to help you get your car ready for a safe and smooth driving season.