Central New York’s spring season can be a breath of fresh air! But with warmer temperatures and melting snow comes a new set of challenges for Syracuse drivers. Here at Rudy Schmid Total Car Care, we want to help you navigate the roads safely and smoothly this spring.
Pothole Patrol:
As the snow thaws, one unwelcome visitor frequently appears – potholes. These road craters can wreak havoc on your suspension, causing misalignment, tire damage, and a generally unpleasant driving experience. If you hear a clunk or feel your car pulling to one side after hitting a pothole, schedule an appointment with an expert technician to get it checked out. A suspension inspection can ensure your car is in tip-top shape.
Spring Showers Bring Slick Driving Conditions:
April showers are a hallmark of spring, and they can leave roads wet and slippery. Be extra cautious during these times. Here are some tips to drive with caution:
- Increase Following Distance: Allow plenty of extra space between your car and the vehicle ahead of you. This gives you more time to react if they brake suddenly.
- Slow Down: Don’t be tempted to maintain highway speeds on wet roads. Reduce your speed to match the conditions and allow for longer stopping distances.
- Beware of Black Ice: Spring mornings can bring the risk of black ice, a thin layer of ice that’s difficult to see. If you encounter a shaded area or bridge that feels slicker than the rest of the road, proceed with extreme caution and assume there might be black ice present.
Spring Fog and Reduced Visibility:
Spring mornings and evenings in Central New York can be prone to fog and mist, significantly reducing visibility. Here’s what you can do:
- Turn on Headlights Early: Don’t wait for heavy fog to activate your headlights. Turn them on as soon as visibility drops, making your car more visible to other drivers.
- Use Low Beams: During foggy conditions, using high beams can actually reflect off the fog particles and create a glare, hindering your vision even more. Stick to low beams for better visibility.
- Increase Following Distance: Just like with wet roads, increase the space between you and the car in front of you to account for limited visibility.
- Drive Slowly: There’s no prize for arriving a few minutes earlier in foggy conditions. Slow down and allow yourself ample time to react to unforeseen hazards.
Spring Driver Awareness:
As the snow melts and the sun shines brighter, some drivers might become complacent behind the wheel. Remember, just because the winter chill has subsided, doesn’t mean the roads are problem-free. Stay alert, avoid distractions, and maintain a safe following distance.
Spring Cleaning for Your Car:
Spring is a great time to give your car some TLC, both inside and out. Consider giving your car a nice detail to remove winter grime and road salt that can damage your car’s paint. Don’t forget to check your wiper blades – if they’re worn or cracked, replace them to ensure optimal visibility during spring showers.
Protect Your Car From Rust This Spring:
Central New York winters are harsh, and the road salt and solution used to clear the snow can take a toll on your car’s undercarriage. Spring is the perfect time to get your vehicle RustChecked at Rudy Schmid Total Car Care. Our professional rustproofing service will help shield your car from the damaging effects of salt and moisture, extending its lifespan and value.
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you can navigate the roads of Central New York safely and enjoy all that spring has to offer. And remember, Rudy Schmid Total Car Care is always here to help you keep your vehicle in top condition, year-round. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
Spring Driving Tips
