Sunday, March 19, 2023

Springtime Automotive Service

 

Springtime is just around the corner. In New Mexico, that typically means wind! LOL But, the expert service team at Melloy Dodge would like you to consider a much-needed springtime walk-around of your vehicle.

 Since it’s getting warm outside, this is a good time to take a walk around your vehicle and take note of any wear that may have occurred to your vehicle. It’s especially important to check your tires for any unusual wear patterns. If you didn’t have the chance to check your tire pressure over the long winter, you may have lost air. Tires that run with low tire pressure will show signs of excessive wear on the edges of the tire—they may even start to bald. Also, look for any signs of sidewall damage or dry rot on the tire. Tire manufacturers indicate that dry rot can occur in as little as 5 years in sunny and arid conditions.

Yes, your windshield wipers will need attention. Again, we live in a dry, arid environment and the windshield wipers you installed last year may not be worth much this year. You can visually inspect them, but the best practice would be to hop in the driver’s seat and take them for a test drive. Do they skip, leave strange marks on the windshield? If they do, they need to be replaced for your safety.

 It’s OK to pop open the hood! Open up that engine area with the engine off and examine the hoses and belts (there may only be one belt these days). If they show signs of aging it might be time to have them replaced. This is an expense, no doubt, but taking care of worn belts and hoses now saves you from an expense tow truck bill.

 If you’re not comfortable with any of these springtime checks, schedule an oil change at the Melloy Dodge Express Lane on Coors. The service experts there will change out that old oil and inspect your vehicle for any issues that might arise. Just ask! No appointment needed.