Why Your Car Feels Different After Winter

As South Africa moves towards spring, you may notice that your car doesn’t feel quite the same as it did a few months ago. That isn’t necessarily your imagination. Winter can quietly affect several parts of a vehicle, making the change of season an excellent time for a quick inspection.

Cold mornings can expose weakening batteries, while changing temperatures influence tyre pressure. Windscreen wipers may have hardened or cracked after months of cold weather, and accumulated dirt can hide small chips or damage you didn’t notice during winter.

Before the warmer weather arrives properly, spend a few minutes checking your vehicle.

• Check tyre pressures and tread
• Inspect your windscreen and wipers
• Test lights and indicators
• Check oil, coolant and washer fluid
• Listen for unusual noises
• Look beneath the vehicle for leaks

You don’t need to be a mechanic to spot something that doesn’t look or sound right.

Spring also means more opportunities for road trips, weekend drives and outdoor adventures. Finding a small problem now could prevent it from becoming an expensive one later.

Your car carried you through winter. Before spring arrives, give it a little attention in return.