As the days get longer and the weather finally begins to warm up, it’s the perfect time for a little spring clean – and not just for your house. Your trusty van, the workhorse that keeps your business ticking, deserves a bit of TLC too.

At Garside Garage in Bury, the team of time-served, fully trained engineers have been under the bonnet of more commercial vehicles than you’ve had hot dinners – so they know exactly what it takes to get yours ready for a smooth, stress-free season.

Here are their top spring maintenance tips to keep your commercial vehicle performing at its best:

1. Give It a Thorough Wash (Yes, Even Underneath!)

Let’s face it – winter is rough on vehicles. Salt, grit, and muddy roads can all take their toll on the exterior (and underside) of your van. Spring is the time to wash it down thoroughly – not just to make it sparkle, but to prevent long-term damage like rust. Pay special attention to wheel arches and the undercarriage where grime loves to linger. A good clean now can save you from expensive repairs later.

2. Check Your Battery

Cold weather is notorious for draining batteries, and if yours struggled to get going over the winter months, it might be on its last legs. The team at Garside Garage recommend a quick battery test – better safe than sorry when you’re relying on your vehicle to keep your business moving. No one wants to be stuck on the job with a van that won’t start!

3. Refresh the Air Filters

Spring might bring the flowers, but it also brings pollen – and that can clog up your air filters quicker than you think. A dirty filter can affect fuel efficiency and make the cab feel stuffy. Replacing or cleaning the air filter is a simple fix that’ll help your engine breathe better and keep the cabin fresh – win-win!

4. Inspect Tyres Like a Pro

Winter roads can be brutal on tyres, especially when carrying heavier loads. Spring is a great time to check your tread depth, inspect for sidewall cracks, and make sure the pressure is bang on. Underinflated tyres don’t just affect fuel economy – they’re a safety hazard too. Garside Garage can carry out a full tyre check while you grab a brew.

5. Check for Leaks

Fluids are the lifeblood of any commercial vehicle. From engine oil to coolant and brake fluid, a leak in any of these systems can cause serious issues. The team at Garside are dab hands at spotting those sneaky drips and sorting them before they become a costly headache. If you're noticing spots where you park, it’s time for a visit.

6. Book a Spring Health Check

Honestly, the best thing you can do? Let the professionals have a look. Garside Garage offers seasonal vehicle checks to catch any issues early and keep your van road ready. Think of it as a spring MOT – minus the stress.

Why Choose Garside Garage?

Based in Bury, Garside Garage specialises in light commercial vehicles – so they understand the demands of tradespeople, delivery drivers, and small business owners. With years of hands-on experience, a no-nonsense approach, and a real passion for keeping you on the road, they’re more than just a garage – they’re part of your team.