3 Ways to Get Your Car Spring Ready

1. Breathe Easy: Check Your Pollen Filter (Cabin Filter)

Winter often means less fresh air circulating in our cars, and with spring comes pollen, dust, and other allergens. Your pollen filter (also known as a cabin filter) is your car's first line of defence against these irritants. A clogged or dirty filter can lead to reduced airflow, musty odours, and even trigger allergies for you and your passengers.

How to check: Consult your car's owner's manual for the location of your pollen filter (it's often behind the glove compartment or under the bonnet). If you find it's discoloured, filled with debris, or smells musty, it's definitely time for a replacement. A fresh filter will make a noticeable difference to the air quality inside your car.

2. The Lifeblood of Your Engine: Check Your Engine Oil

Engine oil is crucial for your car's health. It lubricates moving parts, reduces friction, and helps dissipate heat. Throughout winter, your engine can experience more strain, and the oil can become thicker and less efficient. Spring is an excellent time to ensure your engine oil is at the correct level and still in good condition.

How to check: Park your car on a level surface and wait for the engine to cool down. Locate your dipstick (usually with a brightly coloured handle) and pull it out, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then pull it out again. The oil level should be between the "min" and "max" marks. If it's low, top it up with the recommended oil type for your vehicle. Also, take a look at the oil's colour – it should be a clear, amber colour, not thick and black. If it's very dark or sludgy, it's time for an oil change.

3. Your Connection to the Road: Check Your Tyres

Your tyres are the only part of your car that touches the road, making their condition paramount for safety and performance. Winter driving can be hard on tyres, with varying temperatures and potentially slippery conditions. As spring arrives, it's important to check them thoroughly.

How to check:

• Tyre Pressure: Check your tyre pressure when the tyres are cold (before you've driven far). The correct pressure for your vehicle can usually be found on a sticker inside your driver's side door jamb or in your owner's manual. Properly inflated tyres improve fuel efficiency and handling.
• Tread Depth: Use a tread depth gauge or the "20 cent coin test" to check your tread. Insert a 20 cent coin into a tyre's tread groove. If the outer rim of the coin is visible, your tyres may be approaching the legal minimum tread depth and should be inspected by a professional.
• Overall Condition: Look for any signs of cracking, bulges, cuts, or uneven wear on your tyres. These could indicate underlying issues and should be addressed immediately.