Ottawa winters don’t go easy on your car. Between the salt, the potholes, and months of sub-zero starts, your vehicle has been through it. Now that temperatures are climbing above 7°C consistently, it’s time to undo the damage and get your car ready for the warmer months ahead.
Here’s what our service team recommends checking this spring.
Swap Your Tires
Once daytime temperatures stay above 7°C, winter tires start losing their advantage. The softer rubber compound that grips in cold weather actually wears faster and reduces handling in warmer conditions. Switch to your all-seasons or summer tires, and while they’re off, check the tread depth on both sets. If your winters are getting thin, now’s the time to plan ahead for next year rather than scrambling in November.
Check Your Alignment
If your steering pulls to one side or your wheel feels off-centre, Ottawa’s pothole season probably knocked something loose. Misalignment wears your tires unevenly and costs you fuel economy. A quick alignment check can save you hundreds down the road.
Wash the Undercarriage
This one’s easy to skip, but it matters. Road salt sits on your frame, brake lines, and suspension components all winter. Left unchecked, it accelerates rust and corrosion. A thorough underbody wash at any local car wash does the trick. Do it sooner rather than later.
Test Your Battery
Temperature swings are hard on batteries, and most only last 3 to 5 years. A battery that barely survived the winter cold might not make it through a hot summer. We can test yours in minutes and let you know where it stands before it leaves you stranded in a parking lot.
Inspect Brakes and Belts
Winter grime, slush, and salt all take a toll on your brake pads, rotors, and belts. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel any vibration when braking, don’t wait. Even if everything feels fine, it’s worth an inspection if it’s been more than 20,000 km or six months since your last one.
Top Off Your Fluids
Brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid all need attention after winter. Low levels or degraded fluid can cause bigger problems when temperatures climb and your engine works harder.
Replace Your Wipers
If your wipers are streaking, chattering, or leaving gaps, they’re done. Winter is brutal on wiper blades. A fresh set costs next to nothing and makes a real difference in spring rain.
Check Your Lights
Foggy or dim headlights reduce your visibility and make it harder for other drivers to see you. Road grime builds up over winter, so clean your lenses and check that all bulbs are working, including brake lights and turn signals.
Book It With Us
Our service team handles spring checkups every day. Whether you need a tire swap, an alignment, a full inspection, or just peace of mind, we’ll get your car sorted. Give us a call or stop by the shop in Stittsville. After everything your car went through this winter, it’s earned a little attention.