Does your car need an end-of-winter check-up? | PEMCO

Winter can be tough on your car. As the weather warms and roads stay wet, a little end‑of‑season maintenance can go a long way. Here are a few simple checks to help prevent breakdowns and avoid springtime accidents. 

1. Check your tires  

Your tires make all the difference when roads are wet or slick. 

• Look at your tread: Try the penny test — if you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low. 
• Think about switching tires: If you used traction or winter tires, swap them out when temperatures warm up so they don’t wear down early. 
• Watch your tire pressure: Cold mornings and warm afternoons can cause pressure swings, which can lead to poor traction or even a blowout. 

2. Give your brakes a quick checkup 

Winter slush, salt, and moisture put extra stress on your brakes. 

• Listen for squeaking or grinding 
• Pay attention to a soft or shaky brake pedal 
• Watch for your car pulling to one side when braking 

If anything feels off, have a professional take a look. A quick brake check can make a big difference in wet‑weather stops. 

3. Make sure you can see (and be seen) 

Clear visibility is key for safe driving in rainy spring weather. 

• Replace worn wiper blades: If they streak, skip, or chatter, it’s time for new ones. 
• Clean your windshield inside and out: Dirt and fogging build-up faster in winter. 
• Check your defroster: It keeps windows clear during chilly mornings. 

4. Brighten up your headlights 

Dim or cloudy headlights can cut your visibility nearly in half. 

• Wipe off winter grime 
• Consider restoring cloudy lenses 
• Check brake lights and turn signals to make sure everything’s working 

If your car supports LED bulbs, upgrading can help you see better in rainy or foggy conditions. 

5. Rinse off winter road salt 

Salt and deicer protect the roads, but they can be rough on your car. 

• Get an underbody wash to remove salt and prevent rust 
• Pay extra attention to wheel wells and brake lines, where corrosion builds up fastest 

6. Clean your safety sensors 

Today’s cars rely on cameras and radar to help keep you safe. 

• Wipe off backup cameras, front radar sensors, and side cameras 
• Clear away grime that can block features like lane‑keeping, collision alerts, and adaptive cruise control 
• Don’t ignore dashboard warning lights — they often relate to important safety systems 

A few minutes now, safer drives later 

These quick checks can help your car transition smoothly into spring while reducing your risk of accidents or unexpected repairs. A little prevention goes a long way — especially after a Northwest winter.