Spring Motoring Tips

Motoring Advice for the Spring Season

With the worst of winter behind us (we hope), thoughts might turn towards getting out and about again, perhaps a run to a country pub or an Easter break. Not for nothing, though, is the British weather infamous for offering "four seasons in one day", and Spring, with its April showers and unpredictable conditions, is the perfect example. Days in which weather can turn from sunny to showery to wet and blustery in a matter of minutes at times can present a real challenge to drivers, so here we gather a few commonsense tips to help prepare your vehicle for the new season.

Check Tyre Tread Depths and Pressures

Winter motoring can be tough on tyres and the preponderance of potholes on British roads, after snow, ice and heavy rain, is a serious concern for tyre safety. It is therefore worth checking that your vehicle's tyres have a safe, not just legal, tread depth, that there is no damage and that the tyres are at the correct pressure. Changing temperatures can affect tyre pressure so the start of a new season is a good point to make sure tyres are properly inflated before setting off on longer journeys. If you are unsure about the condition of your vehicle's tyres, consult a good local tyre centre, like the team here at Dowleys.

Check Wiper Blades

Wet weather is to be expected in Spring, so this is a good moment - after heavy use in winter - to check the condition of wiper blades. If they are streaking, smearing or not clearing water as intended, it is recommended to replace the blades.

Check Fluid Levels

All fluid levels should be checked now - oil, brake fluid, screenwash and coolant.

Air Conditioning Check

After a cold winter when the heating has likely been run extensively, it is now a good time to check the air conditioning is working as expected and producing cold air, filtered of pollen. We offer competitive prices on air conditioning servicing from just £50 + VAT. We strongly recommend a check as if you have not been running air con in cold weather, moisture in the system can cause corrosion, so it is definitely worth an inspection to make sure it is in good condition.

Wash your Vehicle

After a winter of running on roads treated with salt to keep frost and snow at bay, it is now essential to was your car or van to remove the residue and general dirt. This will help protect the cars chassis and bodywork against corrosion. Clean the windscreen and windows inside and out to guard against glare caused by streaky windows.

On the Road

Watch out for Potholes

It is something of a national pastime for British motorists to complain about potholes, but the problem is very real. The RAC "estimates drivers have to battle against at least one million potholes on the country’s roads". Potholes can cause punctures and more serious damage, and are particularly hazardous for cyclists. While it is perhaps impossible to avoid all potholes, driving with care and with attention paid to the road ahead, drivers can at least aim to mitigate the problem.

Sun and Glare

As mentioned in connection to washing your vehicles, the bright but potentially low spring sun can cause issues with glare, which are exacerabated by dirty, streaky windows. So again, keep windows clean and be prepared to use the sun visor and/or sunglasses to avoid being caught out by spring sunshine.