TIRES: KEEPING THE PRESSURE UP

As the outside temperature warms up, the air pressure in the tires can also rise. Still, if the tires haven't been checked in awhile, they could be underinflated. With the tires cold (or before the car's been driven for more than a mile or two), check the pressure in each tire with an accurate tire gauge. Adjust the pressure if necessary, following the car manufacturer's recommendation (typically shown on a sticker on the inner door edge or door sill, or in the glove box). In addition, check the tires for adequate tread depth and for any cuts, bulges, or other damage.

Now is also a good time to make sure you're prepared for a flat tire. Check the pressure in the spare tire and make sure the jack and lug wrench are onboard. If you think you might change your own tire, keep a pair of work gloves in the trunk. Try using the lug wrench to check the lug nuts on each wheel. Make sure you can loosen them, which you'll need to do in order to change the tire. Then retighten the nuts. Also try out the jack to familiarize yourself with how it works.


Lights

Verify that all of the exterior lights on your vehicle are in good working condition. Do a comprehensive walkaround that starts with the headlights and includes the taillights, brake lights, directional signals, and fog lamps. Also make sure their lenses are clean so that the lights are as bright as possible.

While driving at night, also check that the headlights are not positioned too low or too high, and have them aligned if necessary.


Washer and wipers

Make sure your vehicle's washer and wiper systems are fully operational--both front and rear, where applicable. Inspect each of the rubber wiper blades for cracks, tears, or warping and check that it's securely attached to the wiper arm. Replace worn blades, and condition those that are still serviceable by running a soft cloth moistened with windshield washer fluid down their edges to remove dirt and grit.