Your spring vehicle maintenance checklist
After months of rain, salt, slush, and snow, your vehicle deserves a little TLC. Whether you drive a gas-powered vehicle, hybrid, or electric vehicle (EV), spring is the perfect time for a deep clean and a comprehensive checkup.
Doing seasonal maintenance extends your car’s life and ensures optimal performance. Some of these tasks are easy DIY projects, while others may require a service appointment. Either way — your car will thank you.
Here’s your expert-recommended spring car maintenance checklist:
1. Change Out Winter Tires
If you haven’t already swapped out your winter tires, now’s the time. Once temperatures stay consistently above 7°C, it's safe to switch to all-season, all weather or summer tires. Driving on bare roads with winter tires increases fuel consumption and wears them out faster.
Pro tip: Store winter tires in a cool, dry place, and wash off salt to prevent corrosion
2. Rotate Your Tires
While you’re switching tires, rotate them. Moving the front tires to the back and vice versa helps ensure even tread wear, which extends tire life and improves fuel efficiency.
3. Check Wheel Alignment
Winter driving can knock your wheels out of alignment. If you notice the steering pulling to one side, schedule a wheel alignment with a trusted mechanic or tire shop. Proper alignment improves handling and helps your tires last longer.
4. Spring Clean Your Vehicle (Inside & Out)
Salt buildup can cause rust and undercarriage damage. Wash your car thoroughly, including the underside. Don’t forget to:
- Vacuum the interior
- Wash and air out mats
- Clean the windows
- Apply wax and polish for added paint protection
5. Check and Top Off Fluids
Using your vehicle’s manual, inspect these essential fluids:
- Engine oil (change if needed)
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Coolant
Topping off fluids is easy but important—especially after winter use.
6. Replace Worn-Out Wipers
Winter wipers are built for snow and ice — not spring rain. Check for cracks or bends and replace them if needed. Good visibility is key to safe driving.
7. Test All Lights
Check your vehicle’s exterior lights:
- Headlights (high and low beams)
- Brake lights
- Turn signals
- Fog lamps
- Licence plate lights
- Reverse lights
If your headlights appear foggy or dim, polish them for clarity. Faulty lighting is a safety risk and could lead to tickets.
8. Test the Battery
Spring temperature swings can stress your car battery. Most batteries last 3 to 5 years, so it’s smart to have yours tested during a spring tune-up. Better safe than stranded.
9. Inspect Belts and Brakes
Winter grime (like slush and salt) can wear down your brake system and belts. Have them inspected, especially if it’s been over 20,000 km or 6 months since your last check.
10. Look for Leaks
Inspect your radiator and coolant hoses for signs of swelling, cracking, or leaks. Catching a small problem now could save you a big repair bill later.
11. Replace Your Cabin Air Filter
After the snow melts comes the dust. That dust can clog your cabin air filter, impacting air quality and HVAC performance. Check your filter and replace it if it’s dirty.
Spring Maintenance for Electric Vehicles (EVs)
EVs may not have internal combustion engines, but they still need seasonal care. Here’s a spring EV checklist:
- Swap out winter tires
- Test the EV battery (they can degrade during winter)
- Replace worn wiper blades
- Check lights, brakes, and fluid
Final Thoughts: Start Spring With a Smooth Ride
Canadian winters are tough—on people and vehicles. By giving your car a spring checkup, you’ll help it recover from the harsh conditions and be ready for the road ahead.
Make this checklist part of your seasonal routine and enjoy better performance, improved safety, and longer vehicle life.
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