As winter gives way to warmer weather, your car or van needs a little attention before spring seetles in. Cold months are hard on vehicles, from tyres and fluids to wipers and bodywork. This step-by-step guide covers the key checks that keep your vehicle safe, efficient and reliable throught spring and summer. 

Tyres: pressure, tread and seasonal swaps.

Winter tyres are designed for sub-7°C conditions. Once temperatures rise above that, they wear down far faster than all-season or summer tyres. If you're running winter tyres, now is the right time to swap them out. Check tyre pressure against your vehicle's recommended PSI (usually found inside the driver's door or owner's manual) and inspect tread depth, UK law requires a minimum of 1.6mm. Correct tyre pressure also improves fuel economy and handling on spring roads. 

Top up these five fluids.

Cold weather depletes fluids more than drivers often expect. Before spring driving ramps up, check and refill each of the following: 

• Engine oil- prevents overheating and reduces engine wear
• Coolant- regulates engine temperature as weather warms
• Brake fluid- keeps brakes responsive and safe
• Windscreen washer fluid- clears spring pollen, mud and rain
• Transmission fluid- ensures smooth gear changes 

Wiper blades and windscreen visibility.

Ice and frost take a toll on wiper blades, cracked or streaking baldes are a common post-winter problem. Replace any that leave smears and top up your washer fluid with a formula suited to spring driving. While your at it, give your windscreen a thorough clean inside and out; even a slight film can reduce visibility significantly in low spring sun. 

Wash away winter grime.

Road salt and winter dirt are some of the most common causes of rust and paint deterioration. A thorough wash including the undercarriage removes corrosive residue before it has a chance to do lasting damage. Clean the interior too- salt tracked in on shoes can damage carpet and upholstery over time. A spring clean inside and out helps protect the vehicle's long-term condition and resale value. 

Check all lights and indicators.

Walk around your vehicle and test every light: headlights, brake lights, reversing lights and indicators. Bulbs can fail at any time, and a faulty brake light is both a legal issue and a road safety risk. Replacements are straightforward and inexpensive, don't put this one off. 

Spring emergancy kit essentials.

Spring weather in the UK can shift quickly. Sunshine one-hour, heavy rain the next. Keep these items in your boot: 

• Jump leads
• First aid kit
• Torch and spare batteries 
• Tyre repair kit
• Bottled water
• Emergancy snacks 

A few checks now can prevent costly repairs down the road. Looking for a new car or van this spring? Out team is here to help! View our deals here or call us on 01792 818538.