Spring into Safety: 10 Essential Car Care Tasks for National Car Care Month

April is National Car Care Month, and it’s the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. As winter fades and warmer weather arrives, millions of Americans gear up for road trips, vacations, and daily drives in rising temperatures. But is your car ready?

According to the Car Care Council, 35% of vehicle owners have delayed at least one recommended maintenance task, which often leads to avoidable breakdowns, costly repairs, and even safety hazards. Regular maintenance not only keeps your car running smoothly—it can save you money and extend the life of your vehicle.

So in honor of National Car Care Month, we’ve compiled a comprehensive 10-step checklist to help you maintain, protect, and prepare your vehicle for the spring and summer seasons.

✅Part 1: The Must-Do Basics

Even if you’re not a gearhead, these basic tasks are essential—and easy to check or perform with minimal tools.

1. Check and Change Your Engine Oil

Fresh oil keeps your engine lubricated and running efficiently. If it's dark and gritty or you're overdue based on mileage, it’s time for a change. Don’t forget to replace the oil filter, too.

2. Inspect Tire Pressure and Tread

Temperature swings between winter and spring can cause tire pressure to drop. Use a tire gauge to ensure pressure is within the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually listed on a sticker in your driver’s door jamb). Also, check for uneven tread wear or cracks.

💡 DIY Tip: Use the penny test—insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.

3. Examine Brake Pads and Fluid

Squeaky, grinding, or soft brakes are red flags. Check the brake fluid level, and have the pads inspected for wear. Ignoring brake issues is dangerous and can lead to costly rotor damage.

4. Replace Wiper Blades

Spring showers are coming. If your blades are streaking, skipping, or leaving residue, swap them out for a new set.

5. Test All Exterior and Interior Lights

Check headlights, taillights, brake lights, reverse lights, and turn signals. Replace any bulbs that are out—it’s a quick fix that keeps you safe and visible.

🔧 Part 2: Deeper Maintenance Checks

These items go beyond the basics but are equally important—especially as temperatures climb.

6. Flush and Refill the Coolant

Your cooling system works overtime in the warmer months. Flushing the old coolant and refilling with a fresh 50/50 antifreeze-water mix can prevent overheating and protect engine components.

7. Check the Battery and Cables

Cold weather can reduce a battery’s capacity, so spring is a great time to test its charge. Look for corrosion on the terminals and clean them with a mixture of baking soda and water if needed.

8. Replace or Clean the Cabin Air Filter

A clean cabin air filter improves airflow and keeps pollen and dust at bay—especially helpful for allergy season. You can usually access and swap this filter behind the glovebox in minutes.

🛠️ Bonus Tip: Check your car’s owner manual for instructions on how to replace the cabin air filter yourself—it’s one of the easiest DIY jobs out there.

🌦️ Part 3: Seasonal Prep for Spring & Summer

After a long winter, your car needs extra attention to recover from salt exposure and get ready for hotter days.

9. Wash Away Winter Salt

Road salt used during winter is harsh on metal. It can speed up rust, especially under the car and in the wheel wells. A high-pressure wash, including the undercarriage, will help prevent corrosion.

10. Inspect the A/C System

Don’t wait until the first 90-degree day to discover your air conditioning isn’t working. Run your A/C and check for cool airflow. If it’s weak or warm, you may need a refrigerant top-up or professional inspection.

📊 Real Data, Real Impact: Why Maintenance Matters

Still on the fence about spring maintenance? Consider this:

• Regular vehicle maintenance can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.
• A simple tire pressure correction can save 11 cents per gallon of fuel and extend tire life.
• Neglected brake systems are one of the leading causes of avoidable collisions.

Just last year, a driver in Ohio lost braking power on a rainy day due to worn pads—resulting in a chain-reaction crash that could’ve been prevented with a $150 service.

📚 Recommended Resources

• Car Care Council’s Free Maintenance Guide – A downloadable PDF covering essential tips, schedules, and checklists.
• Oil Selector Tool – Just enter your vehicle’s year/make/model and get recommended oil types instantly.
• Find a Repair Shop Near You – Locate certified mechanics in your area with one click.

🎁 April Special: Save on Your Spring Service

To celebrate National Car Care Month, we’re offering 20% off all maintenance essentials—from filters to wiper blades and more. No code needed; just shop and save!

Or sign up for our free Maintenance Reminder Service to receive seasonal checklists, exclusive discounts, and personalized tips based on your vehicle.

👋 Final Thoughts

Your vehicle works hard every day—why not return the favor this spring? Regular checkups aren’t just about preventing breakdowns—they’re about safety, performance, and peace of mind.

This April, take the time to show your car a little love. Your wallet (and your future road trips) will thank you.