It just wouldn't be spring without hitting the open road, and with warm weather just around the corner, drivers may want to take time to get their cars ready for the increased travel. Ignoring some important issues could cause significant speed bumps later on, but paying close attention and performing routine maintenance will have you cruising with ease.

The first thing you should do it is make sure everything is tight. Cars have a surprising amount of components that can come loose, and the last things you want is your license plate flying off as you drive down the highway unaware. Additionally, some loose parts, like exhaust clamps, could interfere with how your car runs.

Anybody who has been stranded with a dead battery can tell you it's not fun, and if you're in the middle of a strange highway it can be even worse. To avoid such a fate, make sure you check your battery before the spring hits. In particular, look for corrosion in the terminals and cables, which can eat away at the battery's parts.

As a final step, you should take some time to inspect your windshield. A small crack from a pebble may have seemed insignificant in November, but thanks to the cold weather and several months' worth of wear and tear, it may have become much more noticeable and burdensome. You should make sure you have a clean line of sight before you take off any springtime road trip.

To be fully sure that your car is ready for whatever the road throws at it, you should visit New Jersey State Auto Auction's Total Car Care center. Located in Jersey City and open to the public, its skilled mechanics can perform everything from routine maintenance to crucial repairs.