It doesn’t matter how good your used car warranty may be, maintaining your car properly just simply has to be the first rule of the road. It’s preferable never to see the inside of a car repair shop, warranty or not.

You were admonished in the fall about winter prep. Well, cars need some spring cleaning too.

Car Max provides the following tips.

1. Take your car to an automatic car wash that has an under-carriage wash. This can help remove corrosive residues left behind by winter road treatments used to melt ice and snow.

2. Wash and wax your car. The wax will protect the paint from damaging UV rays.

3. Change the oil and filter every 3,000 miles, and have the air filter and PCV valve checked and replaced if needed. Winter temperatures can cause the formation of harmful condensation and acids in the engine oil.

4. Have a qualified automotive technician check the following:

• The condition of the engine coolant, belts, and hoses; hoses deteriorate from the inside out and summer driving gives your cooling system a workout.
• All the lights and lenses for cracks; you should also replace wiper blades each spring and fall to ensure optimum visibility in all weather conditions.
• The tires for any abnormalities; the tire pressure should also be set at the level specified for your vehicle.
• All the wheels and inspect the brakes thoroughly; during this process, it is also a good idea to have the tires rotated.
• Your vehicle’s steering and suspension for loose, worn, or damaged components often caused by potholes and other road irregularities.
• The air conditioner now so you can avoid the wait if you need to have it repaired during the summer.

5. Have your vehicle diagnosed by an automotive professional if the engine is not running smoothly or any other conditions arise. Preventive measures can help extend the life of your vehicle and improve gas mileage.
(Source)