Winter in Hillsdale County, Michigan can be brutal on your vehicle. From icy roads and potholes to salt buildup and temperature fluctuations, the colder months can take a serious toll on your car. Now that spring is (almost) here, it’s the perfect time to assess any damage and ensure your vehicle is road-ready for the warmer months ahead.
A thorough post-winter maintenance routine can help prevent long-term issues, improve safety, and extend the life of your car. Keep reading for what you need to know about recovering from winter wear and tear and why scheduling spring service should be a top priority.
Watch Out for Pothole Damage
Michigan’s roads take a beating every winter, and that means potholes are everywhere. Hitting just one deep pothole can cause serious issues like bent rims, suspension damage, and misaligned steering.
Signs of pothole-related damage include:
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{C}· {C}A pulling sensation to one side
If you’ve noticed any of these issues, it’s time for an inspection. A professional check-up can prevent minor pothole damage from turning into expensive repairs down the road.
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Get Your Tires Back in Shape
Your tires work hard during the winter, facing snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. As the seasons change, it’s important to give them some much-needed attention.
Key tire services for spring:
Tire Balancing & Rotation: Ensures even wear and a smoother ride.
Tire Inspection: Look for cracks, bulges, or low tread depth that could make driving unsafe.
Tire Replacement: If your winter tires are worn down, now is the time to switch to all-season or summer tires.
Tires are your first line of defense against poor road conditions. Keeping them in top shape ensures better handling, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.
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Fix Front-End Alignment Issues
If your car feels like it’s pulling to one side or your steering wheel isn’t centered, winter driving conditions may have knocked your front-end alignment out of place. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and even lower fuel efficiency.
A spring alignment check ensures that your vehicle’s wheels are properly positioned, providing a smoother ride and preventing further damage. If you’ve been fighting with your steering wheel just to drive straight, this is a service you shouldn’t skip.
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Check for Curb Rash on Tire Rims
Sliding into an icy curb can do more than just shake up your morning commute—it can leave ugly scratches or even structural damage to your tire rims. Curb rash, or damage to your rims from hitting curbs, is a common post-winter issue that can lead to slow air leaks, tire wear, and reduced wheel integrity.
If you see visible damage or notice your tire losing air frequently, it’s worth having your rims inspected and repaired before small issues turn into big headaches.
Don’t Forget Your Michigan State Inspection
Spring is a great time to take care of your Michigan state vehicle inspection to ensure everything is up to code. Routine inspections check for safety concerns like worn brakes, fluid leaks, and emissions issues. Even if your inspection isn’t due, a spring check-up can catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Schedule Your Spring Service Appointment Today
Winter can be tough on your car, but with the right spring maintenance, you can restore your vehicle’s performance and safety. From pothole damage and misalignment to tire care and curb rash repairs, taking proactive steps now can save you money and trouble later.
At Cronin Hillsdale CDJR, our expert technicians are here to get your car back in top condition. Schedule your spring service appointment today and drive into the new season with confidence!