Alabama's unpredictable weather isn't a place that you want to drive without proper tire pressure and tread. Fluctuations in temperature can cause fluctuations in tire pressure. In general, tires lose or gain 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10℉ change in temperature, and both under-inflated and over-inflated tires can cause problems on the road. This is the perfect moment to check tire tread depth, too. Without sufficient tread, your tires can't grip the road as they were designed to do. This could compromise your car's handling in wet weather and your ability to come to a quick stop. Thankfully, you only need one thing to check tread depth (and it’s not fancy). Grab a penny and perform the penny test!
REPLACE YOUR WIPER BLADES AND REFILL WIPER FLUID
Your wipers are probably looking worse for wear, especially if they spent months clearing away snow and ice. Perhaps they're smearing water across the windshield, chattering, or just not doing their job. If a simple wiper cleaning doesn't do the trick, then it's time to replace your wiper blades to prepare for spring and summer rainstorms. Get ahead of the changing seasons (and the bugs that come with it) by topping off your wiper fluid, too.
BRAKES
Have your brakes inspected for normal wear and tear. Mud, road salt and ice melt chemicals used on roads can cause disc brake rotors to rust or pit, and brake hardware to corrode and bind. Brake binding can lead to overheating and poor stopping. Some brake work can be done yourself, but if you’re not sure, leave it to us at the Howard Bentley Service Center.
BELTS & HOSES
Winter’s severe temperatures can quickly damage rubber components, particularly drive belts and hoses. Check the belts for cracks, glazing or fraying. Squeeze all hoses to check for soft or mushy spots. Inspect coolant hoses for dry rot and leaks, especially around hose clamps and fittings. Note: Look for any dirt or debris build-up or chewed wires under the hood. A warm engine compartment may have been a good place for a critter to hibernate.
If all of these feels overwhelming for you or you want a sense of comfort, then schedule a service with our pros at the Howard Bentley Service Center. We offer flexible scheduling, drop off, and even local-pickup. Be sure to relax in our customer lounge and enjoy snacks, drinks, and a play area for your little ones.
