Spring is just around the corner. Many drivers can't wait to get out onto the open road, with their windows rolled down, and have the wind blowing through their hair after being stuck indoors during the harsh winter. The winter season can wreak havoc on vehicles, leaving them dirty and in desperate need of a spring tune-up. If you're itching to get your car in shape for the spring season, follow these simple tips to get it ready.

Clean the interior.

The easiest way to get started on your car's spring tune up is to clean the interior. This is something that can be done in the late winter or early spring. Not many folks spend time clearing out objects that have collected during the winter, such as hats and gloves, extra layers, etc. You may even have trash bins that need to be emptied, or items that have accumulated on the floors or in the back seat, such as children's items or pet toys. Clear everything out, and then do a thorough vacuum of the seats and floors. Look underneath the seats for lost objects. Once the upholstery is clean, work on cleaning the windows, windshield, dash, and doors.

Organize loose items.

Having a few handy organizers for your vehicle is a must year round, especially if you travel with others or have kids or pets in the car with you. Use a backseat organizer to keep their items in. If you have more than one child, it's a good idea to place an organizer on the back of each of the front seats, so each child will have a place to keep and organize their belongings.

Wash your car.

Once the threat of snow and ice is long gone, your car will need a good exterior cleaning. Salt and brine from winter weather builds up on the exterior of your car, and if not properly cleaned off, can do a lot of damage over time. Take your car to a local car wash, and let the professionals give it a good bath and wax, or take a sunny afternoon and get the whole family involved in a fun activity!

Get an oil change.

Don't forget to check your mileage and get an oil change in the spring! Along with getting an oil change, it's a good idea to have your brakes checked. Your brakes can lose performance and functionality when you've driven a lot on harsh winter weather conditions. Have them checked and replaced, if needed.

Check other fluids.

Be sure to check your wiper fluid, and make sure your windshield wipes are working properly. If they seem worn, it's time to have them replaced. Check your other fluids, as well- and if it's time to have your car serviced, make an appointment in the early spring.

Check the A/C.

Not all drivers use their air conditioning systems, but with rising temperatures during the summer months, the spring time is a great time to check to see that your A/C is working properly. No one wants to be stuck in a hot car without properly working air conditioning! Check to see that cool air blows out consistently, and if it doesn't, you may need to have your car serviced and have the A/C recharged.

Taking a day out of your busy schedule to check your car in the early spring may seem daunting, but it's well worth the time spent in the long run. The sooner you prep your car for springtime, the sooner you'll be able to enjoy beautiful weekends with your friends and family. Picnic, anyone?

Brought to you by Ames Ford.