As the snow melts and the temperature begins to rise, it’s time to give your Mercedes the tender loving care it deserves after what has been a rough winter. Winter can be particularly tough on vehicles, with cold temperatures, snow, ice, and road salt wreaking havoc on various components, not to mention the battering that the wind has given this year. As we head into spring, now is the perfect time to give your vehicle the TLC that it needs to get it back up to top form – Here are some essential tips to help you rejuvenate your Mercedes and prepare it for the warmer months ahead.
A Good Clean
To start with, giving your Mercedes a thorough exterior cleaning to remove any dirt, grime, and salt residue that may have accumulated during the winter months, can help to not only get it looking good as new but prevent any build-up from having a detrimental effect. Salt in particular can accelerate rust or paint damage, which can prove costly over time. Pay special attention to the nooks and crannies, wheel wells, and lower body panels where salt and debris tend to accumulate. You only need to use a gentle car wash soap and a soft sponge or microfiber cloth with a good bit of elbow grease, with care taken not to scratch the paint.
Don’t Forget The Undercarriage
Winter road salt can cause corrosion and rust on the undercarriage of your Mercedes Benz so when you’re out there cleaning the rest of the exterior, it’s important to take care to remember the underneath! Make sure to inspect the undercarriage carefully for any signs of rust or damage and if you notice any areas of concern, consider booking your vehicle in for professional inspection and repair. If everything appears fine, simply cleaning the undercarriage with a pressure washer can help remove stubborn salt deposits and prevent any potential issues in the future.
Check Fluid Levels and Condition
Winter weather can take a toll on your Mercedes’ fluid levels and quality. The pressure put on coolant and engine oil can really put it through it’s paces and so it’s crucial to take time to check them this spring. Check the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid levels, and top them off as needed, but make sure to also inspect the fluids for any signs of contamination or discolouration, which may indicate underlying issues that should be addressed. It can also be the perfect time to book your Mercedes in for a service. We will change your oil as part of the service to ensure optimal condition and performance.
Inspect and Rotate Tyres
Winter driving can be tough on tyres, leading to uneven wear and tear, dirt build-up and more. Inspect your Mercedes’ tyres for signs of damage, such as punctures, bulges, or uneven tread wear and consider rotating the tyres to ensure even wear and prolong their lifespan. Don’t forget to check the tyre pressure and adjust it to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications and tyre pressure can read lower over winter when the air is cold.
Replace Wiper Blades
Snow, ice, and road salt can cause wiper blades to deteriorate over time, compromising visibility during spring showers. Even just increased use over winter through rainfall or clearing your windscreen can add up to accelerated wear, so spring may be the best time to get them checked and replaced. Inspect your Mercedes’ wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage, such as cracking or streaking and replace them if necessary to ensure clear visibility and safe driving.
Test the Battery
Cold temperatures can put additional strain on your Mercedes’ battery, reducing its overall lifespan and effectiveness, particularly if you drive an older model. To be sure of the safety of the vehicle, you can check the battery voltage and inspect the terminals for any signs of corrosion or damage. We can do these tests for you to ensure it’s holding a charge and functioning properly, and that you continue to get years and years of joy out of your Mercedes Benz.
Inspect Suspension and Alignment
Winter potholes and rough road conditions can take a toll on your suspension and alignment. If your car has been pulling to one side or driving differently, it could be due to an issue with the suspension or wheel alignment. Our mechanics can inspect the suspension components for any signs of damage or wear, such as leaking shocks or worn bushings, and re-align any wheels that may have been knocked out of place. Simply get in touch with our team to book your vehicle in.
Don’t Forget The Interior
Finally, don’t forget to give the interior of your Mercedes Benz some much-needed attention. Climbing in and out of your vehicle in the cold weather can bring in mud, dirt, debris and salt, not to mention the dust blown around by the demister, so take extra time to clear out the interior properly. Vacuum the carpets and upholstery to remove any dirt and debris that may have accumulated during the winter months and take care to dust each nook and cranny for a full, lasting clean.
By following these essential tips, you can give your Mercedes Benz the TLC it needs to recover from a rough winter and enjoy smooth, trouble-free driving during the warmer months ahead. Remember, regular maintenance and care are key to keeping your Mercedes Benz in top condition for years to come. If you’re due a service or want help with any potential issues or repairs, our team are on hand to help. Simply get in touch with us and book your vehicle in, today.
