Just by looking out of the window you might reasonably think that Spring and Summer are still some way off. Wherever you are in the UK it could be cold but sunny, snowing, raining, muggy and cloudy; all of these things, sometimes on the same day. Yet already the snowdrops are poking their heads out of the ground for a bit of a look around, closely followed by the daffodils which finally herald Spring. Here at eCars247 we make no promises about the coming weather, that's not what we do; we sell top quality used cars and we're keen for our customers to get the best out of them. That's why we recommend preparing your car for Summer now.
It's Going To Be Hot. Probably.
Over Winter our cars have taken a bit of a weather-bashing. The cold might have kept us indoors and those little automotive jobs have been left undone. For example, how many times has the air-conditioning been run? Exactly.
A/C
Air conditioning units, or more recently climate control, have been one of the better additions to the features offered on cars. They dispense relief and coolness during a hot day in a tin box. After a while though A/C units can begin to have issues; get the unit inspected by an expert who will check for any belt issues, compressor problems, or even coolant leaks. Remember, whatever the weather it pays to run the A/C regularly to keep it in good fettle. If all's well, it doesn't hurt to get it re-gassed after a couple of years.
Coolant
Yes, cars have sealed systems these days but it is still possible to check the level (if you're not sure, see your mechanic) via the expansion bottle when the engine is cold. While you are there you might as well check the windscreen washer bottle level, the brake fluid and oil level too. The wet wipes are in the glovebox; or should be, especially if you have children in the vehicle. An interim service might be a thought.
Other Matters
The windscreen wipers have been working like mad over the Winter season so it pays to check them. They don't cost a lot and they are simple to change and doing so will mean no nasty smears when the Summer insects hurl themselves to oblivion on the glass in front of you. Smears block the view and scatter sunlight, causing glare, so take no chances with wipers.
If there is one single part of a car that would otherwise mean nobody is going anywhere, it is the battery. Neglect it at your peril. Thankfully the days of using a hydrometer to measure the specific gravity of the electrolyte inside a battery to know if it is fully charged, needs a charge, or one or more cells have failed, have long gone.
Generally, they last for three to five years and now they are sealed units, without the necessary technical knowledge we generally find out they are knackered when things start to go wrong. Batteries generally work well during a normal lifespan. Winter conditions, using wipers and lights have taken their toll; further, the latest Stop/Start technology requires tip-top battery life. Warning signs like lethargic starting, lights appearing dimmer or taking longer to come on are clues, as are odd electrical issues. Do yourself a favour and get it changed and then you won't be another motoring organisation roadside breakdown statistic.
We want our customers to come back when it's time to change the motor so we offer top quality vehicles with a top quality Five Star service. Do your bit by keeping that car in full working order and enjoy happy motoring this Summer.