Checklist for spring travel for vehicles recommended by AAA East Central will keep you safe for the future

(File Photo of the AAA East Central Logo Provided with Release)

Noah Haswell, Beaver County Radio News

(Pittsburgh, PA) According to a release from AAA East Central, spring car care is crucial because winter temperatures take a toll on parts of vehicles, and maintenance is necessary to ensure safe travels. AAA provides a checklist for recommendations of supplies for you to bring for your car for maintenance purposes. The full list of supplies and their purposes that AAA wants you to get for both repair and traveling in the spring, according to this release is as follows:

AAA Spring Car Care Checklist:

  • Engine Oil — Lubricates and cools the engine while cleaning internal parts. Running a car low on oil can cause severe engine damage. Check the level at least once a month.
  • Engine Coolant — Prevents engine freeze-up in winter and boil-over in summer and protects the cooling system from rust and corrosion.
  • Brake Fluid — Critical to proper brake system performance.
  • Transmission Fluid — Helps transfer engine power to the wheels, lubricates internal parts, maintains seals, and acts as a coolant.
  • Power Steering Fluid — Transfers hydraulic pressure to reduce steering effort.
  • Air Filter — Captures dirt particles and ensures clean airflow to the engine. Inspect at every oil change.
  • Belts — Most vehicles use a single serpentine belt to operate under-hood accessories such as the alternator, although V-belts still are used in some applications.
  • Hoses — Circulate vital liquids such as engine coolants, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.
  • Battery — Powers the starter motor, acts as a voltage stabilizer for the electrical system, and makes up any shortfall when the alternator cannot meet the vehicle’s electrical demands.
  • Tires—As the only part of the vehicle in contact with the road, tires significantly affect ride, handling, braking, and safety. For optimum performance, tires must have adequate tread depth, show no signs of physical damage, and be properly inflated. Inspect tires and check inflation pressures at least once a month.