Essential Maintenance & Detailing Tips for Spring

After months of cold weather, road salt, and wet conditions, your car deserves a little extra attention. Spring is the ideal time to refresh your vehicle—inside and out—so it can perform its best through the warmer months ahead. Just like you declutter your home this season, your car can benefit from a good post-winter cleaning and checkup.

At Japanese Auto Service, we specialize in keeping your vehicle running clean and smooth, especially after the demands of winter driving. Here’s what we recommend as part of a spring clean-up.

Start with a post-winter inspection. Cold temperatures and icy roads put extra strain on key components. Now’s the time to check your wiper blades for cracking or streaking, inspect your tires for uneven wear or winter damage, and ensure your brake pads are still in good condition. These small checks go a long way to prevent bigger issues down the road.

Make sure you address the undercarriage, too. All winter long, road salt and moisture can build up underneath your vehicle, often in places you don’t see. Over time, that buildup can lead to rust and corrosion. A professional undercarriage wash removes the salt and grime, helping preserve your car’s frame, exhaust system, and suspension.

Inside the car, take detailing a step further. Vacuuming and wiping down surfaces is a great start—but for a deeper clean, consider steam-cleaning your floor mats or shampooing your carpets. Conditioning leather seats helps prevent cracking and fading, and cleaning hard-to-reach areas can make your car feel fresh and new again. A clean interior doesn’t just look better—it makes every drive more enjoyable.

And don’t forget the cabin air filter. If it’s been a year or longer since your last replacement—or if you’ve noticed musty smells, reduced airflow, or increased dust inside your car—it’s probably time for a new one. Swapping it out improves air quality inside your vehicle and keeps your AC system running efficiently as temperatures rise.

A few quick spring maintenance steps can help your vehicle run better, look cleaner, and last longer. Whether you're preparing for road trips or just getting back into the rhythm of daily driving, it pays to start the season right.

Need help with your spring maintenance? Call Japanese Auto Service today or schedule an estimate online. We’ll make sure your car gets the refresh it needs—so you can enjoy a smooth, clean ride all season long.