Spring into Smooth Driving: Seasonal Car Maintenance Tips from Kamloops Honda

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Spring into Smooth Driving: Seasonal Car Maintenance Tips from Kamloops Honda

Posted on April 22, 2025

As the snow melts and temperatures begin to rise in Kamloops, it’s the perfect time to shift your vehicle out of winter mode and into spring readiness. Winter can be rough on your car—icy roads, road salt, and freezing temperatures often leave their mark. At Kamloops Honda, we’ve put together a practical guide to help you get your vehicle into top shape for the warmer months ahead. With a few proactive steps, you’ll not only boost your vehicle’s performance and safety but also extend its lifespan.

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1. Clean and Protect Your Vehicle Inside and Out

Winter roads in the Interior of BC often mean layers of salt, grime, and slush that can cause long-term damage if left untreated. Start with a thorough exterior wash, paying special attention to the undercarriage where salt tends to accumulate. Follow that with a fresh coat of wax to add a layer of protection against moisture and springtime pollen.

 

Inside your vehicle, vacuum the carpets, seats, and floor mats to remove any lingering salt or debris. Don’t forget to wipe down surfaces and apply fabric or leather protectant as needed. A clean interior not only looks great, it reduces wear over time and preserves resale value.

 

Service Tip: Kamloops Honda offers full detailing services—book now to get your car professionally cleaned inside and out!

 

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2. Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades

After months of battling ice and snow, your wiper blades have likely taken a beating. If they leave streaks, chatter, or miss areas of your windshield, it’s time for a replacement. Cracked or brittle rubber is a sure sign they’re past their prime. Spring often brings its fair share of rain, so having effective wipers is a must for clear visibility.

 

While you’re at it, check your washer fluid reservoir and top it off with a spring/summer formula. These solutions are better suited for removing bugs and road dust compared to winter blends.

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3. Test the Battery’s Strength

Cold weather is tough on car batteries, and it may have weakened your battery’s charge or lifespan. Check for corrosion around the terminals and ensure the connections are clean and tight. If your battery is more than three years old, we recommend having it tested to ensure it’s still holding a proper charge.

 

Pro Tip: Our Kamloops Honda technicians can quickly test your battery and replace it if needed—saving you from inconvenient breakdowns later.

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4. Examine Brakes and Suspension Components

Stopping power is critical, especially after a season of driving in challenging conditions. Pay attention to any squealing, grinding, or vibrations when braking—these may indicate worn brake pads or rotors. It’s also a good time to have your suspension checked. Harsh winter roads and potholes can wear out shocks, struts, and other components, affecting ride quality and tire wear.

 

During your spring maintenance visit, we’ll inspect your full braking system and suspension to make sure everything is in optimal condition.

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5. Swap Your Winter Tires and Store Them Properly

Once daytime temperatures stay consistently above 7°C, it’s time to remove your winter tires. Winter tires are designed for cold, icy conditions, and using them in warmer temperatures leads to premature wear and reduced fuel efficiency. Switch to all-season or summer tires for better performance and safety.

 

Make sure your winter tires are cleaned, labelled, and stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.

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6. Check and Replenish All Fluid Levels

Spring is the ideal time to do a full check of all your vehicle’s vital fluids. Start with the engine oil—if it’s dirty or low, book an oil change to keep things running smoothly. Check your coolant level to prevent overheating as temperatures rise. Also, inspect brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid for proper levels and clarity.

 

Quick Tip: Dirty or low fluids can lead to engine stress, transmission wear, and decreased braking efficiency—stay ahead of problems with a fluid top-up or flush at Kamloops Honda.

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7. Update Your Emergency Kit

As you swap out your winter gear, it’s a great time to re-evaluate your emergency kit. Store away winter-specific items like snow brushes and heavy blankets. Replace them with spring essentials such as a rain poncho, flashlight, fresh water, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit. Make sure your phone charger, jumper cables, and tire inflator are still in good working condition.

 

A seasonally updated kit helps keep you prepared no matter where your spring adventures take you—whether it’s a road trip to Sun Peaks or a weekend in the Okanagan.

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8. Book a Comprehensive Vehicle Inspection

While DIY checks are helpful, nothing beats a professional spring inspection. Our certified Honda technicians can run system diagnostics, inspect belts and hoses, check tire alignment, and perform preventative maintenance you might otherwise overlook.

 

Spring is also a good opportunity to catch up on any scheduled maintenance or recall services. Staying on top of these tasks keeps your warranty valid and helps your vehicle run reliably throughout the year.

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Trust Kamloops Honda to Get Your Vehicle Spring-Ready

At Kamloops Honda, we know what BC drivers face every season, and we’re here to help make your transition from winter to spring seamless. From seasonal tire changes and inspections to detailing and battery checks, we’ve got everything your vehicle needs to thrive in the warmer weather.

 

📅 Ready to schedule your spring service? Book your appointment online now or call us today to speak with our friendly service team!