Common Spring Car Issues & How to Prevent Them

As winter fades away, many drivers assume their cars are in the clear. However, spring brings its own set of challenges for your vehicle. The transition from cold to warmer weather can expose hidden damage from winter driving and create new issues. To keep your car running smoothly, here are some common spring car problems and how to prevent them.

1. Tire Problems: Worn Treads & Pressure Fluctuations

Winter driving can wear down your tires, and fluctuating spring temperatures can cause pressure changes.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Check tire pressure – Warmer weather can cause overinflation, so adjust accordingly.
✔ Inspect tread depth – Use the penny test (if you can see Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires).
✔ Rotate or replace tires – If you used winter tires, switch back to all-season or summer tires for better performance.

2. Battery Issues: Weak or Failing Battery

Cold weather drains your battery, and if it’s already weak, spring heat can finish it off.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Test your battery – Our Express Service offers battery testing!
✔ Look for corrosion – Clean battery terminals to ensure a strong connection.
✔ Replace if necessary – If your battery is 3+ years old, consider a replacement.

3. Pothole Damage: Suspension & Alignment Issues

Spring means pothole season, and hitting one too hard can damage your suspension, wheels, or alignment.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Drive cautiously – Avoid potholes when safe and slow down if you can’t.
✔ Listen for unusual noises – Clunking sounds or a pulling sensation could mean suspension issues.
✔ Get an alignment check – If your car drifts or your steering wheel vibrates, visit a professional.

4. Wiper Blade Wear & Windshield Visibility Issues

Winter ice and snow wear out your wiper blades, leading to streaking or poor visibility in spring showers.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Replace wiper blades – If they streak or squeak, swap them out.
✔ Top off wiper fluid – Use a spring-friendly formula to clear pollen and bugs.
✔ Check for windshield cracks – Small chips can expand with temperature changes, so fix them early.

5. Pollen & Allergy Issues: Dirty Cabin Air Filter

Spring brings high pollen counts, which can clog your cabin air filter and worsen allergies.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Replace your cabin air filter – This improves air quality and HVAC efficiency.
✔ Vacuum and dust the interior – Remove pollen buildup from seats and vents.
✔ Use air conditioning instead of opening windows – This helps filter out allergens.

6. Fluid Leaks: Winter Wear & Tear

Cold temperatures can cause seals and hoses to crack, leading to fluid leaks in spring.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Check for leaks under your car – Look for oil, coolant, or transmission fluid spots.
✔ Monitor fluid levels – Low levels may indicate a slow leak.
✔ Get a spring maintenance check – A professional can inspect seals and hoses for damage.

7. Overheating Issues: Cooling System Concerns

As temperatures rise, your car’s cooling system needs to work harder, especially if it was strained during winter.

How to Prevent It:

✔ Check coolant levels – Top off if low and look for leaks.
✔ Inspect radiator hoses – Replace any that are cracked or brittle.
✔ Watch your temperature gauge – If it’s creeping up, seek professional help.

Final Thoughts

Spring is the perfect time for a car check-up after a harsh winter. By catching these issues early, you can prevent costly repairs and keep your vehicle running smoothly for the warmer months ahead.

At Honda City, we offer spring maintenance checks, battery tests, tire services, and more to help you prepare for the season. Schedule your service today and drive into spring with confidence!

Tags: Honda, Milwaukee, Schlossmann Honda City, Service, Wisconsin
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