With summer just around the corner, it's time to get your car ready for road trips and vacations, as well as making sure it's still safe for day-to-day driving. The following are a few tips to help get your car summer ready.

Tip #1: Schedule tire service

Plan to have your tires inspected and balanced at the very least, since driving through winter ice and hitting the potholes that often appear with the warming weather can cause havoc. They may also be due for a rotation. The technician can also check for signs of uneven wear or damage so you can repair or replace the tires before they go flat.

Tip #2: Wash the undercarriage

Spring is also the time to make sure your car has a full bath, especially if you live in a snowy climate that salts or treats its icy roads. Focus your cleaning on the undercarriage and the inside of the fenders where the residue tends to collect so you can remove it before rust or corrosion occurs.

Tip #3: Service the AC

Now is the time to make sure your AC system is operating properly. Have the belts checked and the cabin air filters changed if necessary. There's no reason to be sweltering in your car this summer.

Tip #4: Check the coolant system

Overheating can happen at any time, but is more likely to occur in summer. During your spring maintenance visit make sure your coolant system is checked. It may be time to have the radiator flushed or to have the hose replaced.

Tip #5: Replace your wipers

Chances are that your wipers are getting ragged after a winter of fighting ice and snow. Get a new set so that you don't have to worry about a streaky view during any summer rain storms. This is also a good time to top of the windshield washer fluid.

Tip #6: Clean your battery

Take a few minutes to pop the hood and check the battery. A combination of moisture and salt spray from treated roads increases the chances of corrosion building up on your battery posts. Go ahead and clean them with a battery cleaner and a metal brush, and then inspect the connection and wires to make sure they are in good condition. Replace if necessary.

Depending on the mileage of your car, it may also be time for other services, such as brake replacement or an oil change. Visit your local auto service center for more help. For more information, contact a business such as Scotty's Automotive Center​.