Patch Picks: Spring And Summer Car Tips

Spring is here, and despite the recent chill in the air, it's time to start the transition of seasons.

One of the most important areas of seasonal transition centers around your vehicle.

Nobody enjoys spending money on automobile maintenance, but you know the old saying about an ounce of prevention and a pound of cure.

Winter took a large toll on your car and just a few basic steps taken now can make the difference between a smooth-running vehicle and a non-starter that needs a tow to the repair shop.

Take the initative now. You'll be glad you did later this spring and summer.

The List: Five Things To Get Your Car Ready For Spring And Summer

●         Wash and clean it:  It's been a long winter. If your car looks anything like mine, the mats are full of dirt from salt and anti-skid. None of that is good, especially for the exterior, where salt deposits can cause rust. Plus, I'm sure you've got empty take out coffee cups in the car. A good cleaning inside and out will do you and your automobile a world of good.

●         Check your coolant/anti-freeze: You know, that green liquid that's poured in the radiator. It helped keep your car from freezing all winter. Have it checked to make sure it's still got enough oomph left to keep the engine from overheating in the summer. If not, have it drained and changed.

●         Rotate the tires: Very important, not only for a smooth ride, but to even out wear and tear. Good tires should last 50,000 miles. If they're wearing in an uneven fashion, chances are something is amiss in your alignment.

●         Check the battery, belts and hoses. The battery worked hard all winter, so check it to make certain it's strong enough for summer temperatures. Nothing's worse than turning that key and getting no response. Eyeball the hoses to make sure they're in place tightly. Are the belts squealing? That's a sign of loomig trouble. Have them checked and tightened.

●         Check the air conditioning system. For me, nothing is worse than entering a hot car in July and August before turning on the air conditioning. You don't want it to fail when it's needed most. Turn it on in the early spring to make certain the system cools the inside of the car to your liking, If not, an air conditionng tune-up will save you from wilting in the August heat.