Post-Winter Checklist

The snow has finally melted in Ottawa, and spring has arrived! After a particularly harsh winter season, your Hyundai vehicle has withstood freezing temperatures, salt-covered roads, and challenging driving conditions. Now is the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves with some essential spring maintenance.

At Pathway Hyundai in Orléans, our certified technicians have compiled this comprehensive spring maintenance checklist to ensure your Hyundai is ready for the warmer months ahead.

1. Wash Away Winter's Remnants

Winter in Ottawa means exposure to road salt and de-icing chemicals that can damage your vehicle's paint and undercarriage if left untreated. Schedule a thorough car wash with undercarriage cleaning to remove salt residue and prevent corrosion. Consider applying a fresh coat of wax to protect your Hyundai's finish throughout the spring rain showers.

2. Inspect and Replace Wiper Blades

Winter ice and snow can be particularly harsh on wiper blades. If you notice streaking, skipping, or splitting on your wipers, it's time for a replacement. At Pathway Hyundai, we recommend changing your wiper blades every 6-12 months for optimal performance during Ottawa's spring showers.

3. Check Your Tires

If you've been using winter tires during the cold months (as most Ottawa drivers do), April is typically the right time for the seasonal changeover to all-season or summer tires. Our service team can:

• Properly remove and store your winter tires
• Mount and balance your all-season tires
• Check tire pressure according to manufacturer specifications
• Inspect tire tread depth for wear patterns
• Perform a wheel alignment if you notice any pulling or uneven wear

Remember: The general rule in Ottawa is to wait until consistent 7°C temperatures before swapping out winter tires.

4. Fluid Checks and Changes

Winter driving can deplete and contaminate vital fluids. Our spring maintenance service includes checking and topping up:

• Engine oil and filter change
• Windshield washer fluid refill
• Coolant/antifreeze inspection
• Brake fluid assessment
• Power steering fluid check
• Transmission fluid evaluation

5. Battery Performance Test

Cold temperatures are particularly demanding on car batteries. Even if your Hyundai started reliably throughout winter, your battery might have weakened. Our technicians will test your battery's performance, clean any corrosion from terminals, and ensure proper connections to prevent unexpected summer breakdowns.

6. Brake System Inspection

Ottawa's winter conditions with frequent stopping in snow and slush can accelerate brake wear. Our comprehensive brake inspection includes checking:

• Brake pad thickness
• Rotor condition
• Caliper functionality
• Brake fluid level and quality
• Proper brake line operation

7. Check Belts and Hoses

Temperature fluctuations during winter can cause rubber components to crack or become brittle. Our technicians will inspect all belts and hoses for:

• Cracks, fraying, or brittleness
• Proper tension
• Secure connections
• Signs of leakage

8. Air Conditioning System Check

Nothing is worse than discovering your A/C isn't working on the first hot day in Ottawa. Let our technicians inspect your air conditioning system before the summer heat arrives, checking refrigerant levels and ensuring proper operation.

9. Replace Cabin Air Filter

After months of running the heating system, your cabin air filter may be clogged with dust and debris. A fresh filter improves air quality inside your vehicle and enhances HVAC system performance.

10. Check All Lights and Signals

Spring brings more daylight but also rainy conditions that can reduce visibility. We'll test all exterior lights including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights to ensure optimal safety.

Spring Service Special at Pathway Hyundai

For April 2025, we're offering our Spring Maintenance Package for all Hyundai models:

Essential Spring Package: $149.95

• Oil and filter change
• Multi-point spring inspection
• Tire rotation
• Brake inspection
• Fluid top-up
• Battery test

Premium Spring Package: $249.95

• Everything in Essential Package
• Cabin air filter replacement
• Alignment check
• Engine air filter replacement
• A/C system inspection

Book your spring maintenance appointment today at Pathway Hyundai in Orléans, Ottawa. Our factory-trained technicians use genuine Hyundai parts to keep your vehicle running at its best. Schedule online, call us at (613) 837-4222, or visit our service center at 1375 Youville Dr, Orléans, ON K1C 4R1.

Remember: Regular maintenance not only keeps your Hyundai performing at its best but also maintains your vehicle's warranty coverage and resale value!

Pathway Hyundai is Ottawa's premier Hyundai dealership serving Orléans, Blackburn Hamlet, Cumberland, Rockland, and surrounding areas with sales, service, parts, and financing for new and pre-owned Hyundai vehicles.