If you’re the proud owner of a Jeep vehicle or a RAM pickup truck, then you probably already know just how important maintenance is to your automobile’s health. If you’re planning some spring cleaning around the house, consider hitting your vehicle as well, but take it further than just a wash and wax. Spring is a great time to catch up on maintenance and make sure your Jeep or RAM has come out the other side of winter as healthy as possible. We’ve put together a little guide for you owners to follow, helping you ensure your truck or SUV is in tip-top shape.
Change, Flush, or Top Off Fluids
One of the best things you can do for your Jeep or RAM after a harsh winter is take care of all its fluids. Check your mileage or date recommendation for when your next oil change should be, and even if it’s close go ahead and schedule an appointment. Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start, so changing your oil and oil filter now is a great idea.
You should also check your coolant system, as it will become more and more important as the temperature continues to rise. Checking your coolant levels and the integrity of your hoses can ensure you don’t end up on the side of the road after overheating on a humid afternoon.
Your Jeep or RAM also rely heavily on your hydraulic systems, whether you’re towing heavy loads or hitting the trails, so checking your brake and transmission fluids is key as well. We can inspect for moisture contamination that sometimes occurs after particularly wet winters, but also determine if your fluids can get by with a top off or if it’s time for a full flush.
You should also top off any other fluids that are looking low, such as your windshield washer fluid.
Tire Rotation, Balance, Pressure, & More
The next important step in our guide is to take care of your tires. From fluctuating weather causing changes in your tire pressure to all the potential damage caused by driving through rough winters, you’ll definitely want to take a better look at your tires and wheels. Here are a few maintenance services you should consider.
- Tire Rotation – Prevent uneven wear by rotating your tires on a regular basis, and spring is the perfect time.
- Tire Balance – Eliminate vibrations and protect your suspension by ensuring your wheels spin true, especially after a winter of hitting hidden ruts.
- Alignment Check – If your steering wheel feels off-center or the vehicle is pulling to one side, your alignment might need tweaked. Regardless, it’s a great time to have it checked to be sure.
- Tire Pressure – You should be paying attention to your tire pressures by checking the digital TPMS display occasionally, but now is the perfect time to recalibrate and make sure all four tires – and your spare if you have a full one – are at the proper pressure.
Workload and Trail Readiness
Lastly, you’ll want to get your vehicle ready for working or playing, whichever it is you prefer. If you need to get your RAM truck ready for spring and summer workloads, consider a battery test, an air filter replacement and a bed and inspection. If you’re looking to tackle the trails, rinse out your undercarriage and inspect your suspension and steering. We detail prepping your Jeep for spring off-roading even more in another blog.
Schedule Your Spring Service at Jim Glover CDJRF
If you’d like us to help take care of your spring maintenance this year, you can schedule a service appointment right here at Jim Glover CDJRF! Feel free to give us a call with any questions you have, otherwise we can’t wait to take care of your Jeep or RAM!