Winter is winding down and the changing of the seasons is so close, we can almost feel it. Do you have spring cleaning plans already underway? Make sure you don’t leave your car off your list.

Between ice, snow, salt on the roads and general vehicle neglect due to the less-than-comfortable temperatures, winter can really wreak havoc on your car. Want to start your spring off the right way? One afternoon, carve out a few hours and give your vehicle the TLC it needs. You’ll enjoy the cleanliness – and you could also add years to the life of your car’s paint and body. Read on for more!

4 Ways to Prep Your Car for Spring

Take out the trash.
In the colder months, things tend to accumulate in your car (especially while you’re keeping time outdoors to a minimum). Grab a garbage bag and throw away any trash that’s lingering, and bring in any other clutter that’s taking up unnecessary space. Keep only the essentials!

Clean the carpets and upholstery.
You may not have realized it at the time, but when all the winter weather hit, you were likely tracking trace amounts of dirt, salt and debris into the car with you every time you got in. Plus, little messes accumulate during your day-to-day commutes. Roll your sleeves up and give your interiors a good scrubbing – you may be surprised how fresh looks.

Clear out your trunk.
Hauling around winter gear and other various items you have no intention of using anytime soon won’t do anything but lower your fuel economy. Pop open your trunk and really go through what’s in there – weeding out the stuff you won’t need for a while and leaving the essentials, like your spare, jumper cables, etc.

Give the outside a rinse.
A clean interior loses impact if your car’s exterior is filthy. Spray the under-carriage to remove salt build-up. Wash with a soap that’s specifically made for cars. Clean all the nooks and crannies (like the door jambs) and dry with a soft cloth. Bonus: Not only will your car look shiny and clean, a fresh washing can also increase the longevity of your car’s paint and body.

And that’s it! Dedicate just a few hours to the job and your car will look and feel like new – just in time for a spring road trip. What are your favorite car care tips? Share with us in the comments below!

If your vehicle is in need of a post-winter tune-up, contact the skilled mechanics at Thompson Buick GMC Cadillac. We handle a range of service repairs, including brake replacements, transmission service, oil changes and safety inspections.