24 November 2017 · Motoring Tips & Advice

The Weather's Changing – Keep Safe With These Spring Driving Tips

Around home, you’re digging out the swimwear and beach chairs and putting away your heavy winter clothing. But the seasonal change means that driving conditions are different too.

Have Your Car Detailed

Winter weather can be harsh on your car. The extra humidity can wreak havoc on your car’s undercarriage, wheels, and its paint job. You might also notice an abundance of dirt and dust inside your car. So, why not have it detailed and start the spring with a clean slate?

A clean Toyota is refreshing to drive, but it’s more than that. Your car is safer to drive when it’s clean, especially when the windows and mirrors have been cleaned well. You’ll have a better view of the road, so you can see if anything is in your way.

Avoid Driving Through Puddles

Standing water on the road may not seem like a major issue, but it can be. The water can splash up into little nooks and crannies, corroding and rusting hidden bits that aren’t easily accessed.

But more than the water and corrosion, puddles hide a more dangerous problem: potholes. When you hit a pothole that is filled with water or hidden in a puddle, it can be detrimental. Not only can you damage your suspension, your car’s rims, or pop a tyre, but you can lose control of your car and get into an accident. Avoiding puddles and potholes is the best idea.

Be Prepared for Anything

It’s springtime, but that doesn’t mean the weather can’t turn on a dime. What is a beautiful sunny day can have sudden downpours and a chilly cold snap. Keep a safety kit in your boot with the essentials. It should include some drinking water, a few snacks, a candle, blanket, a change of clothes, and a first aid kit. In the event you are stranded somewhere, you should be able to take care of yourself.

Get a Wheel Alignment

The winter has been rough on your car, especially on the suspension. Bring your Toyota car into your local dealership to have a wheel alignment performed. Even if your steering isn’t pulling to one side, or if the steering wheel isn’t off centre, the wheel alignment can still be out of spec. An annual wheel alignment as part of your spring car maintenance can eliminate excess tyre wear and stress on your suspension.

Have Your Car Inspected by our factory trained technicians

Part of your spring car maintenance should be a complete vehicle inspection. Have your dealership give your Toyota a thorough once-over to make sure it’s in top operating condition. The associate will check your tyres, suspension, steering system, starting and charging system, and look for brake issues, fluid leaks, and much more. A thorough inspection will help you avoid problems throughout the spring and the rest of the ear.

These spring driving tips can help you stay safe and assist you to keep your Toyota in good shape. If your Toyota needs attention this spring, don’t delay.Stay safe on the road with spring car maintenance at Phil Gilbert Toyota. You can find Phil Gilbert Toyota in both Croydon and Lidcombe with service centres to take care of all your spring car maintenance and repairs.