WHAT TO CHECK NOW THAT THE SNOW HAS MELTED

Wisconsin winters bring more than snowflakes— they bring salt, slush, potholes, and freezing temps that take a toll on your vehicle from top to bottom. Now that spring has arrived, it's the ideal time to assess how your car held up and make sure it’s ready for the road ahead.

At Auto Select, we see firsthand the kind of damage winter can do to critical systems like brakes, shocks, struts, suspension, steering, and even brake fluid. Let’s break it down:

Brakes: Don’t Let Winter Wear Slow You Down Brake pads and rotors work overtime in winter, especially in stop-and-go traffic and icy conditions. Cold temperatures and salt exposure can lead to rust and premature wear. If you’ve noticed squeaking, grinding, or longer stopping distances, now’s the time for a full brake inspection.

Brake Fluid: The Forgotten Essential Brake fluid is hygroscopic—meaning it absorbs moisture. And winter’s humidity swings can introduce more water into the system, which can corrode brake lines and reduce braking performance. Flushing and replacing old brake fluid every 2 years (or as recommended) can make a big difference in safety and responsiveness.

Shocks & Struts: Keeping the Ride Smooth— and Safe Winter roads don’t do your suspension any favors. Hitting potholes or packed snow can stress your shocks and struts, which are responsible for controlling body movement and keeping your tires firmly planted on the road. Worn-out struts can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and longer braking distances. If your vehicle feels bouncy, leans during turns, or takes a nose-dive when braking, your shocks or struts may need attention.

Suspension & Steering Components: Hidden Damage Can Add Up Snow-covered hazards, frozen ruts, and rough terrain put major strain on your vehicle’s suspension system. Ball joints, control arms, bushings, and tie rods can all suffer from winter’s wear and tear—leading to clunks, vibrations, or steering that feels loose or unresponsive. Steering components are especially vulnerable to salt and moisture, which can lead to rust and reduced performance. A thorough inspection ensures everything is aligned and functioning properly—so you stay safe and in control. Your

Spring Check-Up: Protect Your Investment Just like we need a checkup after flu season, your vehicle needs one after winter. At Auto Select, our spring inspections include a detailed look at:

• Brake pads, rotors, and fluid

• Struts and shocks for wear or leaks

• Suspension parts and steering linkage

• Chassis for rust or corrosion

We’ll identify issues early, before they turn into expensive repairs—or worse, leave you stranded.