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Spring in California means longer days, more sunshine, and often more time spent on the road. It’s also a great reminder to give your vehicle a little extra attention. Just like you clean out your home this time of year, your car can benefit from some seasonal care, too. We’ll walk you through a few simple ways to “spring clean” your vehicle to help you drive safer and avoid preventable issues on the road.
Clean Out and Clear Up for Better Visibility
Start by tackling the inside of your vehicle. Clutter near the pedals, dashboard, or seats can be distracting and even dangerous. Take a few minutes to remove unnecessary items, especially from the front seat area.
Next, focus on visibility:
- Wash your windows, mirrors, and windshield—inside and out.
- Replace worn or streaky wiper blades.
- Top off your windshield washer fluid.
- Clean your headlights and taillights to make sure you can see clearly, and others can see you.
We rely on good visibility in every driving condition. Something as simple as a dirty mirror or dim headlight can make a real difference in how you respond to hazards.
Check Your Tires and Brakes
Your tires and brakes keep you connected to the road. Spring is the perfect time to see how they’re holding up after months of use.
Start with your tires:
- Check the tread depth. If they’re looking worn, it may be time for a replacement.
- Look for uneven wear patterns—this could be a sign of alignment problems.
- Make sure your tire pressure is in the right range. As temperatures change, so does air pressure.
Then, listen to your brakes. If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel a soft pedal, it’s time to have them inspected. Brake pads wear out gradually, so it’s easy to miss the signs until stopping becomes more difficult. Staying ahead of brake problems can help you avoid rear-end collisions and other accidents.
Test Safety Features and Emergency Gear
A safer car doesn’t just rely on how it drives—it also depends on how well its safety systems work.
Here are a few areas to check:
- Buckle each seatbelt and give it a firm tug to make sure it locks properly.
- Look at your dashboard for any warning lights, especially those related to the airbag system.
- If you carry a first aid kit, check expiration dates and restock as needed.
- Make sure your emergency gear is where it should be—this includes your spare tire, jack, jumper cables, flashlight, and bottled water.
Most of us don’t think about these things until we’re in a bind. A quick check today can make all the difference tomorrow.
Get Under the Hood: Fluids and Filters
You don’t need to be a mechanic to give your engine bay a quick once-over. Just look for anything that seems low, dirty, or cracked.
Here’s what to check:
- Oil level and color
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Coolant level
- Windshield washer fluid
Don’t forget to inspect your belts and hoses. If anything looks frayed or feels brittle, it’s best to get it looked at soon. You should also consider replacing your cabin air filter—especially if you’ve noticed dusty air or reduced airflow inside the car.
Lastly, test your battery or have it tested if it’s more than a few years old. Warmer weather can put new strain on an older battery.
Contact Our Experienced Thousand Oaks Car Accident Attorneys
Spring cleaning your car isn’t just about looks—it’s about keeping yourself and others safer on the road. A few small checks now can help you avoid breakdowns, improve performance, and stay focused while driving.
If you do end up in an accident, especially one caused by another driver’s lack of care, we’re here to support you. At Ardalan & Associates, we help people throughout California hold others accountable for preventable harm. Contact us for a free consultation. We’ll review your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.