With the spring season in full swing, many vehicle owners will face spring maintenance. Washing your vehicle regularly is one of the best things you can do to take care of it, but there are some factors to consider before washing. The timing of a vehicle wash can make a big difference in the way your car looks afterward.

Wait until there is no longer a threat of snow/ice in your area if you plan to wash your car. If there is still a chance that roadways may be salted, you may want to consider waiting to wash your vehicle until the temperatures rise. It's always a good idea to rinse any salt from the roads off of your vehicle in the meantime, though, as the salt can cause damage to the vehicle's exterior over time.

Don't plan on giving your vehicle a major cleaning if you're planning a trip where your vehicle may encounter a lot of mud, dust or dirt, sand, salt spray from the ocean, etc. There is no sense in cleaning your car so well before a trip that you just wind up frustrated with the dirt and grime that accumulates during your trip. Give the vehicle a rinse and light vacuum, and then wait to do a thorough cleaning after you return from your adventure.

Clear off the pollen. During the spring season, pollen can create big problems for drivers. Not only does the pollen leave a nice yellow sheen to your car's exterior, the pollen can wind up inside of your vehicle if you've had your windows open, when you open up the car door, etc. Keep the pollen at bay by rinsing your car off (which you may have to do every few days, depending on what's blooming in your area), and keep your windshield clear and clean. Keep a small dust cloth in your car to clean off your dashboard, where pollen might settle.

If possible, avoid washing your car during the hottest part of the day. If your car's exterior is cool, you'll know it's a good time to give it a proper wash. Washing your car when it's too hot outside can lead to burns (on the skin), and can leave streaks on the car from natural drying. It's best to wash your car when it's cool out, and if possible, in the shade. Many car owners wash their vehicles before the sun comes up, or when the sun is setting.

 If you're able to gently dry your vehicle by hand, it's better than allowing it to air dry, and will help cut down on water streaks- which are prone to be more visible on white and black colored vehicles. A wax will help protect your car's coat from natural elements. The best way to protect your car is to keep it in a garage, or covered, when possible.

Even if you don't have time for a major, thorough wash and cleaning, take the time to rinse the dirt and grime off of your car's exterior. Doing this regularly will cut down on the time you have to spend working at tough spots when you do decide to give it a full cleaning.

This post brought to you by York Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram.