As spring approaches and brighter days return, more driving becomes inevitable, with road trips and family visits booked. With more trips, longer drives and busier weekends ahead, your vehicle is likely to see increased use. This is why it’s important to ensure your car is in good working order before you set off. Here are a few essential checks and maintenance tips that can help ensure everything continues to run smoothly and safely.
Preparing your vehicle for driving in the spring
Windscreen
Spring can bring increased debris from trees, insects and bird droppings, all of which can quickly reduce visibility through your windscreen. Keeping it clean is essential, both for safe driving and to meet legal requirements. Check your wipers are in good condition and ensure your washer fluid is topped up for clear visibility on every journey.
Brakes
As spring in the UK is often unpredictable, being prepared for sudden downpours is essential. Ensuring your brakes are working effectively can help maintain reliable stopping performance in wet conditions. Brake fluid levels should also be checked and topped up where necessary.
You should take your car for a professional inspection if you’re unsure about the condition of your brakes.
Coolant levels
Checking your coolant levels is particularly important as they may be lower after winter, when the system has been working harder and more frequently. Maintaining the correct level helps ensure your engine stays protected as temperatures begin to rise.
Unsure which coolant to use? Check out this blog to find out which coolant is right for your vehicle.
Tyres
Tyres can naturally lose pressure over time, so keeping them correctly inflated helps maintain safety, efficiency and performance. It’s also essential to ensure tread depth is within legal limits to provide reliable grip on wet and changing road conditions.
Spring driving tips
Once your vehicle is in good working order, it’s important to stay aware of a few additional hazards when driving during spring.
Prepare for changing weather
Spring weather is unpredictable, often shifting from bright sunshine to sudden rain in a matter of minutes. It’s important to be mindful of increased stopping distances in wet conditions and ensure your windscreen remains clear, whether dealing with rain, pollen or glare from bright sunlight.
Be aware of your surroundings
As temperatures rise and daylight hours increase, spring typically sees more pedestrians, cyclists and wildlife on or near the road. This is particularly important in residential areas, near parks and on rural routes. Staying alert, scanning the road ahead and reducing speed where necessary can help drivers react safely to unexpected hazards.
Watch out for potholes and road damage
Following the winter months, road surfaces are often left with more potholes and general damage. These can pose a risk to tyres, wheels and suspension if not avoided. Where possible, drivers should slow down when spotting potholes and avoid sudden manoeuvres. Ensuring tyres are correctly inflated can also help reduce the impact of poor road surfaces.
For more help and advice on car maintenance and protection, check out the rest of our blog.