What does your car need after a tough winter? Spring car care is essential to restore safety, performance, and reliability. At Premier Auto Works in New Oxford, PA, we offer expert seasonal maintenance to help your vehicle bounce back after harsh conditions.
As a trusted NAPA AutoCare Center, Our shop is committed to high-quality repairs and thorough diagnostics. Our team provides digital vehicle inspections (DVIs) to help you make informed maintenance decisions with confidence. Here’s how to prepare your car for the spring season.
The Impact of Winter on Your Vehicle: Why Spring Maintenance is Necessary
Winter weather takes a toll on your vehicle, often leaving behind hidden damage that can compromise performance and safety. Cold temperatures, road salt, and potholes all contribute to wear and tear, making spring the perfect time for a comprehensive check-up.
Common Winter Damage to Watch For:
- Battery Weakness: Cold weather strains your battery, leading to slow starts or failure.
- Road Salt Corrosion: Salt buildup can cause rust on your undercarriage, brake lines, and suspension components.
- Pothole Damage: Freezing and thawing cycles create potholes that damage tires, wheels, and alignment.
- Brake & Suspension Issues: Moisture and ice can reduce braking efficiency and affect steering stability.
By scheduling spring maintenance at Premier Auto Works, you can prevent these winter-related problems from turning into costly repairs.
1. Replace Wiper Blades and Check Fluids
Spring often brings heavy rain, making clear visibility crucial for safe driving. After months of battling ice and snow, your wiper blades may be cracked or ineffective. If they streak or skip across the windshield, it’s time for a replacement.
Fluids also need attention after winter:
- Windshield washer fluid – Ensure you have enough for spring showers.
- Coolant levels – Check and top off your coolant to prevent overheating.
- Brake fluid – If it’s low or dark, a flush may be needed.
- Power steering and transmission fluids – Verify they are at proper levels for smooth operation.
We inspect all essential fluids during preventative maintenance services to keep your car running at peak performance.
2. Test Your Battery and Charging System
Cold temperatures can weaken your battery, making spring an ideal time to check its condition. Many drivers experience starting and charging issues due to an aging or faulty battery.
Signs you may need a new battery:
- Slow engine cranking
- Dim headlights or flickering dashboard lights
- Corrosion on battery terminals
If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of failure, we recommend replacing it before it leaves you stranded.
3. Inspect Tires for Tread Wear and Proper Inflation
Winter conditions and potholes take a toll on your tires. Checking tread depth, alignment, and air pressure is critical for safety and fuel efficiency.
- Look for uneven wear – Misalignment can cause premature tire damage.
- Check for cracks or bulges – These indicate possible tire failure.
- Adjust tire pressure – Warmer temperatures can increase PSI, affecting handling.
We ensure your tires are properly inspected and inflated.
4. Change Your Oil and Replace the Fuel Filter
Routine oil changes keep your engine clean and running efficiently. Over time, oil breaks down and collects contaminants, leading to increased engine wear. We recommend an oil change every 4,000 to 6,000 miles for optimal performance.
For diesel and gas engines, fuel filter replacement is essential every 15,000 miles. A clogged filter can restrict fuel flow, causing poor engine performance and reduced fuel efficiency.
We use the manufacturer-recommended oil for your vehicle, ensuring the best protection for your engine.
5. Check Brakes and Suspension Components
Winter driving can put stress on your brake system and suspension, leading to performance issues. If you notice any of the following, it’s time for an inspection:
- A soft or spongy brake pedal
- Grinding or squealing noises when braking
- Pulling to one side when stopping
- Excessive bouncing after hitting a bump
Premier Auto Works specializes in brake and suspension services. We replace rotors instead of resurfacing them to ensure the highest quality and longevity.
6. Schedule a Vehicle Diagnostic Check
Spring is the perfect time to address check engine lights, drivability issues, and performance concerns before they turn into major problems.
At Premier Auto Works, we use advanced Snap-On and Autel scan tools that update monthly to provide accurate diagnostics for misfires, sensor malfunctions, and other engine-related issues. Whether your concern is a check engine light, poor acceleration, or a rough idle, we can identify and resolve the problem efficiently.
Why Choose Premier Auto Works?
We are committed to providing high-quality, reliable auto repairs and maintenance. Our team focuses on honest service, expert diagnostics, and long-term solutions to keep your vehicle running at its best.
- Certified NAPA AutoCare Center – As a NAPA AutoCare Center, we follow industry-leading standards and use high-quality parts to ensure durability and performance.
- Specializing in Diesel Repair in Pennsylvania – Our experienced technicians are trained to handle Cummins, Duramax, and Powerstroke diesel repairs, providing expert care for light-duty diesel trucks.
- Comprehensive Auto Diagnostics – We use advanced diagnostic tools, including Snap-On and Autel scan technology, to accurately identify and resolve vehicle issues.
- 24-Month/24,000-Mile Warranty – We stand by our work, offering a warranty on all repairs to give you confidence in the quality of our service.
Our shop is dedicated to providing expert repairs and honest recommendations. Whether you need routine maintenance, in-depth diagnostics, or diesel repair, our team is ready to help.
Schedule Your Spring Car Care in New Oxford, PA
Routine maintenance is the key to vehicle longevity, performance, and safety. At Premier Auto Works, we prioritize honest diagnostics, high-quality repairs, and customer trust.
Get your car ready for spring by scheduling an appointment today. Call us at 717-479-5651 or visit us at 6285 York Rd (Rte 30), New Oxford, PA 17350 to book your spring car care service.
