Auto expert Rodionov named five mandatory tasks that will extend the life of the car

Spring car maintenance is not just a formality, but a necessary minimum that will extend the life of the engine, suspension and battery, and most importantly, avoid serious expenses during the summer season. Nikita Rodionov, technical director of the international franchise network of car service centers Fit Service, told Rossiyskaya Gazeta about this.

“During the winter, the front part of the car often becomes covered with a layer of sand, reagents and dirt, which clogs the radiator honeycombs and impairs heat dissipation. In the spring, this can result in overheating, constant operation of fans and accelerated wear of the cooling system. I recommend carrying out the procedure in professional car services,” the expert said.

According to him, in winter the brakes suffer from reagents, so the driver should check the caliper guides and boots. In addition, due to frost, silent blocks and CV joint boots in the suspension crack. Also, after cold weather, it is necessary to check the wheel alignment angles in order to preserve the tires.

Rodionov advised drivers to change the cabin filter with the onset of spring, otherwise the compressor will be overloaded, treat the evaporator and check the refrigerant. The expert noted that due to frequent cold starts, condensation can accumulate in the crankcase and unburnt fuel can enter, causing the lubricant to lose its properties and deposits to grow in the engine. If the mileage after winter approaches 7-8 thousand km, it is better to change the oil. Fresh lubricant will protect the engine in hot weather and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

In addition, in winter the battery wears out: the cold slows down the chemistry, and short trips do not allow it to charge. By spring, the starting current drops, the engine starts worse, so motorists should check the density of the electrolyte, measure the starting current and clean the terminals of reagents. This will preserve the battery and protect the electronics from failures.

It was previously reported that Russia will experience three waves of increases in car repair prices in 2026.