Winter’s over – clear sailing from here on out, right? Well, not quite.  Just because winter is ending doesn’t mean you can let your guard down on the road or ease up on your maintenance routine. The following tips will help you get the most out of your upcoming spring road trips.

Improve Your Fuel-Efficiency In Warmer Weather

With gas prices through the roof, getting the most out of every tank is essential. Warmer weather can hurt fuel economy. Here are some ways you can be more fuel-efficient in warmer weather.

Check Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure can reduce gas mileage. Make sure that your tire pressure levels are set according to your manufacturer’s recommendations to improve performance and your tires' lifespan.

Remove Excess Weight

The more weight in your car, the more fuel you will burn. Take out heavy items from your trunks or back seats, like any camping gear or sporting equipment that won’t be used in the near future. Roof racks will also weigh down your car and add additional drag.

Change Oil and Filters

Engine performance directly correlates with gas mileage. Be sure to use the correct type of oil for your car and change out the dirty engine and air filters roughly every 12,000 miles.

Be Mindful Of Road Conditions

Winter can damage roads, creating potholes that remain well into the spring months. Potholes can cause severe damage to your suspension and tires. Avoiding potholes is easier said than done but do keep an eye out for them as they’re more common during the spring. Some cities provide ‘pothole hotlines’ for drivers to report existing potholes, which may be worth checking out before your road trip.

Stay On Top Of Maintenance

Springtime is great for driving. These simple pre-trip measures can help make your spring road trip more enjoyable. Before going on that springtime family vacation be sure to stop into one of our over 150 locations in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, Tennessee, Georgia, Virginia, and Alabama for a thorough multi-point inspection. Our staff of ASE-Certified technicians are standing by to keep you safe this spring.