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The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer here in Wisconsin...spring is in the air!

 

The Badger State LOVES spring. Nothing is more exciting than a bright, sunny day in the 50’s after enduring a cold Midwest winter. To be honest, it almost makes us want to open the sunroof and drive down the highway in a Hawaiian shirt and sunglasses! 

 

But first, let’s get that car squeaky clean and wash away the salt, dust, and grime that’s been accumulating over those long winter months. Read on for spring cleaning and maintenance tips...specifically for your car! 

 

1. First things first: A Car Wash! 

Whether you opt for a professional car wash or get out the sponge and hose to do it yourself, the finished product will be a shiny, salt-free exterior! 

 

If you choose to tackle the task, consider trying the “Two-Bucket” method: use one bucket for clean, soapy water, and another to rinse off grime from the sponge. Don’t forget to wash the undercarriage with the hose to clear out all that corrosive road salt. You can also use a coarse brush and gentle cleaner to make your tires look good as new! 

 

2. Clutter be Gone 

Now that the outside of your vehicle is sparkling in the spring sun, let’s move to the interior!  

 

Have you looked on the floor of your car lately? If you’re like most people, probably not. It’s time to grab all those stray receipts and wrappers that have fallen between the seats. Who knows, you might even find some loose change or your long-lost phone charger down there! 

 

3. Suck it up! 

Once that clutter is gone, you can use a long-necked vacuum to suck up the dirt, dust, and salt that has accumulated on the floor of your vehicle. Be sure to check all the nooks and crannies...you’d be amazed at the amount of debris that can work its way into cup holders and between car seats! 

 

4. It’s all in the Details 

Put the finishing touches on your car by paying attention to the floor mats, dashboard, and windows.  

 

We all know how dirty floor mats can get – work boots, the kids’ soccer cleats and Fido’s paws can really leave a mark! If you have rubber mats, give them a scrub with a course brush and soapy water. For carpeted floor mats, go ahead and use household carpet cleaner to remove the dirt! 

 

Next, find a soft microfiber cloth and gentle cleaner for the dashboard, console, and other surfaces. By doing this, you’ll trap the dust without scratching your vehicle...a win-win! 

 

To shine up those windows, grab glass cleaner. Don't have any handy? No problem--mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with 2 quarts of water, and now you do! You can use a cloth to wipe down the inside and outside of your windows for extra clarity. Don’t forget to top off washer fluid and check your windshield wipers...these are inexpensive to replace and make a world of difference while driving in rain. After all, you’ll want a perfect view of Wisconsin as the snow melts away and everything comes back to life! 

 

5. Under the Hood 

Now that your vehicle is beautiful inside and out, it’s time to pop the hood. To prepare for spring driving, it’s important to make sure your vehicle’s fluid levels haven’t gotten low. Radiator fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid should all be checked and topped off as needed. Air conditioning refrigerant should be monitored as well, which requires professional equipment. Stop by our Tire & Service Center for help from our experienced, professional team...we’ll make sure your car is ready for spring driving! 

 

Once your car’s fluids are good to go, test out your vehicle’s air conditioning. Does the air flow seem steady and powerful? If not, check the cabin filter. Dirty, clogged filters can lead to weak air flow. You want to smell the fresh spring air, right? So, check your filter and replace it if needed. Most vehicle models recommend a new air filter every 12,000-15,000 miles. At Hartje Tire & Service, we can help to check and replace this, too! 

 

Follow these spring maintenance tips to make sure your car is ready for the warm days ahead. Dust, salt, and clutter free...yes please! 

 

Have any car care tips of your own? Share them with us on Facebook. We’d love to hear from you! 

 

Happy spring, Wisconsinites!