You never know when a van adventure might pop up, so you might as well keep your van in tip-top shape! Plus, regular maintenance will extend the longevity of any vehicle and likely save you lots of $$$ in the long-run.
Especially when you're planning to hit the road across different seasons, seasonal maintenance helps get your van ready for whatever the weather might throw its way. This guide will walk you through the suggested maintenance steps for each season, helping you keep your van ready for whatever adventures lie ahead.
Spring: Refresh and Revitalize
Deep Clean
- Exterior Wash: Start with a thorough wash to remove salt and grime accumulated over the winter. Pay special attention to the undercarriage.
- Interior Clean-up: Clear out any clutter, vacuum every corner, and wipe down surfaces. This is also a great time to check for any signs of mold or mildew and address them immediately.
Mechanical Check-up
- Engine and Battery: Winter can be harsh on your engine and battery. Check your battery's charge, and ensure your engine's fluids are topped up and clean.
- Tires: Check tire pressure and tread depth. Spring is a good time to rotate your tires and replace them if needed.
Ventilation System
- Clean or replace air filters to ensure good air quality inside the van, especially important for allergy season.
Summer: Beat the Heat
Cooling System
- Air Conditioning: Have your AC system checked and recharged if necessary. You don't want to be stuck in the heat without a working AC.
- Engine Cooling System: Ensure your coolant levels are adequate, and the system is functioning correctly to prevent overheating.
Protective Measures
- Sun Protection: Use reflective window covers and UV protectant on your dashboard and seats to protect from sun damage.
- Fluid Levels: Hot weather can lead to faster fluid evaporation. Regularly check and top up engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid.
Tires
- Heat can affect tire pressure. Monitor it closely and adjust as needed to avoid blowouts.
Fall: Prepare for the Drop
Heating System
- Check the Heater: Ensure your van's heating system is working efficiently before the temperature drops.
- Insulation Check: Inspect your van's insulation and window seals to keep the heat in and the cold out.
Exterior Prep
- Lights and Wipers: Shorter days mean more use of lights and wipers. Check that all your lights are working and replace wiper blades if they're worn out.
- Battery Check: Colder weather can reduce battery capacity. Test your battery and replace it if it's not holding a charge well.
Fluids
- Antifreeze: Make sure your engine's antifreeze is at the correct level and concentration to prevent freezing.
Winter: Weather the Storm
Winter Tires
- Install Winter Tires: If you're traveling in areas with snow and ice, winter tires are a must for improved traction.
Emergency Kit
- Update your emergency kit with winter-specific items like a snow shovel, ice scraper, and warm blankets.
Fuel
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full to prevent the fuel line from freezing.
Engine and Battery Maintenance
- Engine Block Heater: Consider using an engine block heater to ease cold starts.
- Battery Maintenance: Cold weather is tough on batteries. Keep the terminals clean and consider a battery warmer if you're in a particularly cold climate.
Sprinter Van Maintenance
Sprinter Van Maintenance Schedule
Sprinter vans are renowned for their durability and efficiency, making them a favorite among van lifers (and Sandy Vans!). However, their maintenance needs can be unique, so adhering to a maintenance schedule will help keep your Sprinter running—*sprinting—smoothly.
- Every 10,000 Miles: Change oil and oil filter, check tire pressure and rotate tires, inspect brake pads, and replace air filter.
- Every 20,000 Miles: Replace fuel filter, inspect suspension components, and check the cooling system.
- Every 30,000 Miles: Change transmission fluid and filter, inspect and possibly replace brake discs and pads, and check exhaust system.
- Annually: Check AC system, replace cabin air filters, and perform a comprehensive inspection of the electrical system.
Remember, Sprinter vans may have specific needs based on their model year and engine type, so always refer to your van’s owner manual for the most accurate information.
Disclaimer: This guide provides general advice and is not a substitute for professional automotive maintenance and repair. The maintenance schedule and tips are provided for informational purposes only. Always consult your vehicle's owner's manual and a qualified mechanic for specific maintenance requirements and advice for your vehicle. Sandy Vans is not responsible for any damage or issues that may arise from following the advice in this article.
