Driving during the winter means that you are traveling through slush, snow, and road treatments – which can wreak havoc on your car! Continue reading to learn five things you should do to prepare your car for spring and summer…
Get rid of road salt on the undercarriage. Road salt can damage your vehicle by eating away at its undercarriage. Simply use a garden hose with high pressure to get rid of the winter grime and salt. If you have a lawn sprinkler, set that under the vehicle to wash away what you can’t reach!
Have your tires checked. Tire pressure changes about 1 pound per square inch for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit change in outside temperature – which means it’s important to check tire pressure after weather changes. Refer to your owner’s manual for the recommended pressure for your tire, and never exceed that. If you have winter tires, you will need to have those replaced once the snow has melted and the average temperature is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Check the wiper blades. Your wipers work hard all winter removing dirt and debris. Since the life expectancy of a wiper blade is only six months to a year, you will most likely need a replacement. Car experts also suggest that you refill the wiper fluid reservoir after a long winter.
Have the oil and air filter changed. The arrival of spring is a great excuse to have your oil changed. You should also make sure the car service station changes the air filter each time you change the oil, as a dirty filter will not keep the new oil clean.
Clean or replace your car floor mats. Walking on snow for nearly four months and getting into your vehicle can bring a lot of filth inside. You may have rubber mats placed on your car’s flooring, but this does not always protect from moisture. Give your floor mats a thorough cleaning, or find a durable replacement.
If you are in the market for a new vehicle, be sure to take advantage of SeaComm’s online auto buying site, Garage Gizmo! Garage Gizmo is a convenient tool for car shoppers and a great way to save money. You can browse through a variety of new and used vehicles, narrow down your search based on preferences, and even apply for a SeaComm auto loan, online!
As a SeaComm member, you might already be pre-approved for a new or used auto loan! With SeaComm’s loan pre-approval program, LoanEngine™, you can view and accept loan offers specifically designed for you. If you qualify for a pre-approved offer, you’ll be presented with it through our SeaComm Mobile 4.0 app or NetTeller™ in the “My Offers” tab, via email, and/or a letter through the mail. Click here to login to your NetTeller™ to view your current offers! If you don’t have any offers at this time, be sure to check back every 60 days.
In an effort to keep our communities safe, we have implemented an adjusted operating schedule. Effective March 23, through April 17, all SeaComm lobby visits will be by appointment only. Our drive-thru lanes will remain open at all locations. To apply for a loan in person, please call us at (800) 764-0566 to schedule an appointment.