Warm breezes, flowers sprouting from the sleepy ground and an urge to flip on the AC as the sun heats up the car’s interior can only mean one thing. SPRING! Whether you love the warmth or crave colder temps, it’s time to wash that layer of salty grime off your trusty ride and give it a good inspection. Below is a checklist by ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence) to help ensure your vehicle is ready to take on any adventure you dream as the temperatures begin to soar.

• Check the owner’s manual for it’s recommended service schedule.

• Have hard starts, rough idling, stalling, etc. checked before the hot weather sets in.

• Flush and refill the cooling system (radiator) according to owners manual instructions. The level, condition and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically.

• If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, have your vehicle checked by a repair facility with ASE-certified automotive technicians.

• The tightness and condition of belts, clamps and hoses should be checked by a qualified technician.

• Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a qualified technician to reduce the likelihood of more costly repairs.

• Change the oil and oil filter as specified in the owner’s manual. (Properly dispose of used oil.)

• Replace other filters (oil, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended.

• Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Always check tire pressure when tires are cold.

• Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs.

• Replace worn wiper blades and keep plenty of wiper solvent on hand to combat summer’s dust and insects.