1. Remove clutter from your car. Vacuum the carpeting; Windex the windows; wipe the headlights with a soft, damp rag. Wash and wax your vehicle to remove winter salt and grime and protect the finish.

2. Cooling system (radiator): flush and refill according to the service manual’s instructions. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. Important: first let the engine cool down before removing the radiator cap.

3. RK Toyota service technicians tell us that skipping oil changes can greatly reduce your vehicle’s life. Change the oil and oil filter as specified in your owner’s manual. Be sure to properly dispose of used oil. Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended in your service manual.

4. Check your tires, including the spare. Let them cool down before checking their pressure. Uneven wear, cupping, vibrations, or pulling to one side indicates problems with your tires or suspension system.

5. For safety and convenience, inspect all lights and bulbs, and replace any that are burned out.

6. Replace worn wiper blades and always have plenty of washer solvent on-hand to combat summer’s dust and insects.

7. Read your owner’s manual and follow the recommended service schedules.

Don’t miss Part 2 of this series: RK Auto Group Spring Checklist of Services to schedule with your Qualified Auto Technician.


Tom Kline is Controller of RK Auto Group (RK Buick, RK Chevrolet, RK Subaru, RK Scion, RK Toyota). RK Chevrolet is the recipient of Chevrolet Motor Division’s coveted Service Supremacy Award four years in a row. This is an award which less than 400 of the nation's 5,000 Chevrolet dealers have won. In 1998, R.K. received the prestigious "Genuine Leaders Award" for excellence in sales, service, and customer satisfaction. The dedication of each employee at RK Chevrolet, RK Buick, RK Subaru, RK Scion and RK Toyota made these awards possible.