Montana winters take a toll on every vehicle. Road salt, temperature swings, potholes, and cold starts all add up. As spring arrives, taking 30 minutes to run through this checklist can save you from expensive problems down the road.
Tires
If you are running winter or studded tires, now is the time to swap back to all-seasons. Check tread depth on your warm-weather tires. Montana law requires at least 2/32" of tread, but for safety on wet spring roads, 4/32" is a better minimum. Also check tire pressure, as cold weather deflates tires and they may be under-inflated heading into spring.
Alignment and Suspension
Montana potholes are legendary in spring. If your steering pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates at highway speed, you likely need an alignment. Inspect your shocks and struts for leaks while you are at it.
Brakes
Salt and grit accelerate brake wear. Listen for squealing or grinding. If you feel pulsation when braking, your rotors may need resurfacing or replacement. Do not put this off.
Fluid Levels
Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Spring is a great time for an oil change if you are close to your interval. Montana dust kicks up fast once the roads dry out, so a clean air filter matters too.
Battery
Cold weather is the number one killer of car batteries. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. A weak battery that barely survived winter will leave you stranded when you least expect it.
Wiper Blades and Lights
Montana spring means rain, mud, and insects. Fresh wiper blades make a big difference. Walk around your vehicle and check that all headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are working.
Undercarriage Wash
Road salt is corrosive. A thorough undercarriage wash at the start of spring removes salt buildup that can cause rust. Many Montana car washes offer undercarriage rinse options.
Time for an Upgrade?
If your current vehicle is showing its age after another Montana winter, it might be more cost-effective to upgrade than to keep pouring money into repairs. Browse our used inventory for reliable, pre-inspected vehicles, or check out our best deals. We offer easy financing through our online pre-qualification tool.
