Valuable Tips of Bob Ciasulli for Preparing Your Car for Spring

Myself Bob Ciasulli and I am the owner of numerous car dealerships in northern New Jersey. During the previous winter months, you have no doubt experienced wet roads, ice, snow, and harsh winter weather conditions. Although it still feels like winter, spring is right around the corner so Myselfgoing to tell you how to best prepare your car or vehicle for the warmer temperatures.

1. Check your tires. After winter, your tires have no doubt suffered a lot of wear and tear and as a result are worn down or have lost air due to cold temperature changes. Before spring rolls around, check your tires to make sure they're not low. I say this because under-inflated tires can affect your car’s handling, braking abilities, and tread as well. For safer driving (and to save on gas), get your tires checked before spring.


2. Clean your tires. Not only to keep them looking good, but salt and de-icers can cause damage and create air leaks if left caked on to your wheels.


3. Your windshield wipers. Snow, hail, salt, and freezing temperatures can really take a toll on the effectiveness of your windshield wipers. If these conditions have made your wipers stiff, cracked, or ineffective, make sure to buy new wipers before spring. One key indicator that your wipers aren’t doing what they’re supposed to is that they leave behind residue or “streaks”. A good pair of windshield wipers is essential for good road visibility. If you can, invest in a good pair. You won’t regret it.


4. Vaccuum. This one is a no-brainer. Especially if you own a convertible (and even if you don’t leave the top up), you should take the time to vacuum. This is important for other vehicles as well—in the winter, snow, water, and other forms of moisture can remain in your car. Come spring, you’re going to want to vacuum it out to prevent mold, and get rid of residual condensation. Also, there’s nothing wrong with having a clean car.


5. Your hoses and belts. Winter weather can really damage the belts and hoses of your vehicle. It is very important to check for cracks or damage and catch them early. If you wait, it’ll result in a far more expensive repair. You will also avoid breaking down on the side of the road at a future time.


6. Check your filters. Winter is notorious for clogging air filters, even if they were recently replaced.


7. Wash your car. You should have been washing your vehicle all winter long to remove harsh road salt and de-icers, but if you haven’t, do it before spring. Using a wash mitt (and not a regular sponge as those trap gravel and sand and can scratch your finish), wash all dirt, grime, salt, and residue off your car. And please, don’t use dish detergent.


8. Waxing. Wax your car well after its “spring cleaning” to ensure it’ll look great and be protected in the upcoming months.

Remember, vehicles are big investments and taking the time to prepare them for spring is absolutely necessary. Winter damage, particularly salt can decrease their value and performance. Take the time protect your vehicle and you’ll enjoy years of safe driving.

Bio: Bob Ciasulli owns and operates numerous car dealerships in northern New Jersey and is very interested in automotive maintenance and safe driving habits. These valuable tips are based on what he’s experienced on the road. He encourages you to drive safely and protect yourself and your fellow drivers.