After a long Maryland winter filled with cold mornings, salty roads, and unpredictable weather, your car deserves some attention. Spring is the perfect time to freshen up your vehicle and make sure it’s ready for warm-weather driving.
At Catlett’s Auto Service & Towing in Davidsonville, MD, we’ve been helping local drivers stay safe and road-ready since 1976. Here’s a simple guide to preparing your car for spring—so you can enjoy smooth, worry-free driving all season long.
1. Give Your Car a Thorough Wash (Including the Undercarriage)
Winter road salt and grime can cling to your car’s paint, frame, and undercarriage, leading to corrosion and rust over time. Start spring by giving your car a complete wash, including the underside.
Don’t forget to clean the wheel wells and door jambs, where salt often builds up unnoticed. A fresh coat of wax afterward helps protect the finish from rain and pollen.
2. Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
Temperature changes can cause your tire pressure to fluctuate—especially after winter’s cold snaps. Low pressure can lead to poor fuel economy, uneven wear, and reduced traction.
Use a reliable gauge to check your tire pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (listed on the driver’s door frame). Also, inspect your tread depth to ensure proper grip on wet spring roads.
If your tires show uneven wear, it may be time for a tire rotation or alignment, which Catlett’s can handle quickly and affordably.
3. Inspect Your Brakes
After a winter of wet, salty roads, your brakes deserve attention. Moisture and salt can lead to corrosion, and frequent braking in slick conditions may have worn down your pads and rotors.
Look for signs like squealing noises, vibration, or reduced stopping power. Even if your brakes seem fine, a spring brake inspection ensures everything is working safely before heavier summer driving begins.
4. Replace Wiper Blades and Refill Washer Fluid
Your windshield wipers likely worked overtime during winter rain, sleet, and snow. If they streak, squeak, or leave patches of water, replace them.
Also, top off your windshield washer fluid with a solution designed for spring and summer—it helps clear pollen, bugs, and dirt more effectively.
5. Test Your Battery
Cold weather takes a toll on car batteries, reducing their ability to hold a charge. If your battery struggled during winter or is more than three years old, have it tested.
At Catlett’s, our technicians can perform a battery load test to ensure it’s strong enough to power your car through the warmer months—or replace it if needed.
6. Check All Fluid Levels
Fluids are essential for your car’s performance and longevity. As part of your spring prep, check and top off:
- Engine oil
- Coolant (antifreeze)
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Power steering fluid
If any fluids appear dark, dirty, or low, it’s best to schedule a full fluid service to prevent future issues.
7. Inspect Belts, Hoses, and the Air Filter
Winter’s cold can cause rubber components like belts and hoses to crack or wear. A quick inspection can prevent overheating or engine damage later on.
Likewise, replace your cabin and engine air filters to improve airflow and air quality—especially as pollen season approaches.
8. Don’t Forget a Professional Check-Up
Even if your car seems to be running well, a professional inspection ensures nothing is overlooked. Catlett’s offers comprehensive vehicle check-ups that cover brakes, fluids, suspension, and more—so you can hit the road with confidence.
Plus, if you ever face a roadside emergency, our 24/7 towing and roadside assistance team is always ready to help.
Trust Catlett’s to Get You Ready for Spring
At Catlett’s Auto Service & Towing, we make spring car care simple. From oil changes and brake checks to tire rotations and battery testing, our technicians ensure your vehicle is in top shape for the season ahead.
📞 Call 410-798-5446 today to schedule your spring maintenance or inspection.
With nearly 50 years of trusted service, Catlett’s keeps Davidsonville drivers safe, efficient, and road-ready—no matter the season.