Drive a Clean (and Well-Maintained) Machine this Spring

From below-zero temperatures to black ice and potholes, winter can be brutal on the roads. It’s a good thing spring is on the horizon, as warmer weather gives us a chance to shake off the chill and renew our commitment to clean.

But first, a quick history lesson on the origins of “spring cleaning”.  It used to be that homes were kept warm during the winter with coal, oil, wood and candlelight.  Imagine the amount of soot, dirt and dust that accumulated over the long, dark months of winter.  The first warm and sunny day of spring gave homeowners the green light to freshen and clean up their homes, thus welcoming the new season and cycle of life.

And, while we generally don’t burn coal in our cars, there’s no doubt that winter weather can wreak havoc on batteries, tire pressure and the outside (and undercarriage) of our family sleighs.  Fluctuations in temperature, especially for tires, can be dangerous if not anticipated and corrected.  

Here’s a quick list of some spring cleaning tips for your home-away-from-home…your car

1. Commit to a regular car wash schedule.  It’s important to remove salt and sand used on roads to melt ice and snow that may have accumulated on your vehicle’s finish and metal components, causing erosion and eventually, rust.    

2. Check alignment and suspension.  Hitting those winter potholes are bound to effect your car’s alignment and suspension.  If you notice a pull to one side, it’s time to align that ride!

3. Change oil and check fluids.  In cold temperatures, your car’s fluids thicken and therefore move less freely through your engine’s vital parts.  Think of them like a bottle of maple syrup. 

4. Rotate tires and check air pressure.  In cold temps, tire pressure decreases.  Driving with low – or too much – tire pressure can lead to uneven wear and shortened lifespan for the tire. It can also lead to a blowout on the road. 

5. Inspect battery.  When temperatures plummet, your car’s battery works harder.  Maybe it’s worked too hard over the winter and its (permanent) vacation starts when you have to be in the office for a Monday morning meeting.

The best way to start spring off right is by committing to a regular preventive maintenance schedule with services and diagnostics performed at Jiffy Lube Idaho.  A Jiffy Lube Signature Service Oil Change is a multi-point service to check, change, inspect and fill essential components.  It’s the first step to help preserve the health and longevity of your vehicle. 

Stop by your nearest Jiffy Lube Idaho today, no appointment necessary!  We understand that your vehicle is one of your most important assets.  Whether you need manufacturer recommended maintenance or a fluid top-off in between oil changes, the pros at Jiffy Lube Idaho are experts in preventive maintenance.