The end of winter is the perfect time to inspect your car after the harsh conditions of the cold season. A complete examination of the bodywork, tires, brakes and various levels ensures the safety and reliability of your car. Check out our guide to the essential checkpoints to prepare your car for spring and prevent possible mechanical problems.
What checks should be carried out on the bodywork ?
Start with a thorough cleaning of the bodywork to detect any traces of corrosion caused by de-icing salt. Pay particular attention to the rocker panels and wheel arches, the areas most exposed to winter spray.
Run your hands over the surface to detect micro-scratches or impacts that are invisible to the naked eye. Special attention to door seals is necessary : the cold may have weakened them.
Check the condition of bumpers and their fixing, sometimes pushed by accumulated snow. A careful inspection of the windscreen will reveal the potential splinters due to the gravel, which may worsen with temperature changes. Note each anomaly to plan for repairs before spring.
Tire and brake inspection
Tire tread depth measurement reveals the actual condition of the tires : replace them if they are less than 3 mm. The right pressure ensures optimal road holding. For mountainous areas, consider taking your winter tires apart as soon as temperatures regularly exceed 7°C.
The braking system deserves increased monitoring after winter. A simple test : brake pads must maintain a minimum thickness of 4 mm. Unusual metallic noise or vibration during braking signals an urgent need for maintenance.
Road safety also recommends measuring the wear of brake discs. An irregular groove or surface requires professional intervention. A complete diagnosis of the brake system will allow to anticipate necessary repairs.
Levels to be monitored in the engine
The engine temperature must be cold to achieve optimal control. The oil gauge, once extracted and cleaned, reveals the level that must be between the minimum and maximum marks. A supplement is essential when the measurement approaches the minimum.
The coolant expansion vessel requires special attention : its level must remain stable between graduations. The presence of a liquid suitable for negative temperatures guarantees protection of the engine up to -25°C.
The brake fluid reservoir is easily located near the master cylinder. Its optimum level is kept close to the maximum for effective braking. An abnormally low level may indicate advanced pad wear.
How to test the battery after winter ?
A voltage test using a multimeter is the first step in assessing your battery’s condition. Connect the cables to the terminals respecting the polarity : a healthy battery shows a voltage between 12.6V and 12.8V engine off.
The measurement must be at least 9.6V when starting. A lower value indicates a battery weakened by winter temperatures. Remember to check cleanliness: a simple cleaning with a wire brush is often enough to restore good electrical contact.
The use of a load tester allows for more accurate diagnosis. This device simulates the actual start-up conditions and reveals the exact capacity of your battery to withstand spring stresses.
Clean, inspect and check the car
Thorough cleaning is required after winter assaults. Start with the licence plate : remove salt and mud residue that could mask numbers during roadside checks.
Look at the cabin from every angle : carpets can hide cold water leaks. A powerful vacuum will remove the sand and gravel accumulated during the season.
The cleanliness of the engine compartment deserves special attention. Carefully remove any dead leaves and debris that have slipped under the hood. A damp microfibre cloth is sufficient to clean the plastic covers without damaging the electronic components.
Remember to document with photos the general condition of the car : these pictures may be valuable for the follow-up of its maintenance or its future resale.
Condition of brushes and lighting system
A thorough examination of wiper blades is required after the winter hardships. Check their flexibility and full-length adhesion : cracks or hardening of the rubber signal a need for replacement.
Verification of the lighting system requires a precise methodology. Test the position, crossing, road and turn signals. A burned-out light or an improperly set headlamp compromises your safety.
The condition of the optics deserves a rigorous inspection : locate impacts, cracks or opacification that reduce light efficiency. A complete diagnostic also includes the adjustment of headlight height, an essential parameter for optimal visibility without dazzling other users.
