After months of snow, slush, and potholes, it finally feels like spring in Canada. Time to roll down the windows, plan that first road trip, and… take care of your car.
Because if winter was tough on you, it was even tougher on your vehicle.
At Superior Tire & Auto we want to make sure your car is ready for the warm months ahead. Here’s a simple checklist to keep your ride running smoothly, save you money, and avoid surprises when you’re hitting the road.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters
Winter is brutal on vehicles — salt, potholes, freezing temperatures.
Spring is the perfect time to fix any damage, swap out winter parts, and get your car in shape for the warmer days ahead.
According to CAA’s Spring Maintenance Tips, taking care of basics like oil changes, tire swaps, and battery checks can prevent major repairs and extend the life of your vehicle.
Your Spring Car Maintenance Checklist
1. Fresh Oil for a Fresh Season
Think of an oil change as spring cleaning for your engine. Fresh oil keeps everything running cooler, smoother, and longer.
How often?
Every 5,000 to 8,000 km, or as recommended in your car’s manual.
Need an easy, no-hassle oil change? Book with Superior Tire & Auto.
2. Tires: Time to Swap, Rotate, and Inspect
If you’re still on winter tires, it’s time to switch back to all-seasons or summers. Even if you swapped already, spring is when you should:
- Check tire pressure (it rises as the temperature warms up).
- Rotate your tires every 10,000 km to keep wear even.
- Inspect for pothole damage like sidewall bubbles or cracks.
- Balance your wheels at a wheel balancing near me location.
Looking for fresh rubber? Check out our wide selection of tires North York — and at all our locations across the GTA and beyond.
3. Brakes: Winter Took Its Toll
Salt and freezing temperatures are hard on brakes.
Warning signs you might need a checkup:
- Grinding or squealing sounds
- Car pulling to one side when braking
- Soft or spongy brake pedal
Visit a brake mechanic near me at Superior Tire & Auto to make sure you’re ready for safe spring and summer driving.
4. Top Up Your Fluids
Don’t just check your oil — your whole car needs hydration.
- Coolant (to prevent overheating)
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid (because bugs are coming)
Need a full fluid checkup? Our transmission shop has you covered.
5. Battery Health: Winter Was Tough
Cold weather drains batteries faster than you think. Even if you made it through winter, your battery could be running on borrowed time.
Signs your battery might need help:
- Slow cranking when starting
- Dimming headlights
- Dashboard warning lights
Our vehicle electrical repair experts can test and replace your battery before it leaves you stranded.
6. Alignment: Blame the Potholes
Toronto, Barrie, Markham… pothole season hits hard everywhere.
If your steering wheel pulls or your tires look unevenly worn, you probably need an alignment near me.
Getting an alignment now means smoother driving and longer-lasting tires.
7. Air Filters: Breathe Easier This Spring
Your engine air filter and cabin air filter work overtime all winter long catching dirt, dust, and salt.
Spring is the perfect time to swap them out. Clean filters mean:
- Better fuel economy
- Cleaner air inside your vehicle
- Less stress on your engine
Other Spring Must-Dos for Your Car
Want to go the extra mile? Here’s what else you should check:
- Wash the undercarriage to remove salt and grime.
- Detail your interior (no one wants to sit on muddy winter stains).
- Check your lights (headlights, taillights, signals).
All these little things add up to a better-looking, safer car.
Common Spring Car Problems to Catch Early
Here’s what you should watch out for after a tough Canadian winter:
| Problem | Warning Signs |
| Suspension trouble | Bouncy ride, clunks, rough handling |
| Brake wear | Grinding, pulling, slow stops |
| Battery weakness | Slow starts, dim electronics |
| Tire damage | Cracks, bulges, uneven tread |
Don’t wait until you’re stuck on the side of the 401 — let Superior Tire & Auto help you catch issues early.
How Often Should You Schedule Maintenance?
Simple reminders:
| Service | When |
| Oil change | Every 5,000–8,000 km |
| Tire rotation | Every 10,000 km |
| Brake check | Every 6 months |
| Full vehicle check | Every year |
Planning a Spring Road Trip? Don’t Skip This
If you’re gearing up for a road trip, there’s even more reason to make sure your car’s in top shape.
Check out our blog on Spring Road Trip Tire Check for essential tips before you hit the road.
Time to Get Road-Ready!
Spring is all about fresh starts — and your car deserves one too.
Book your spring checkup at Superior Tire today, and cruise into the new season worry-free.