Spring Car Prep for German Vehicles: Common Problems to Catch Early
Spring in Bend means blue skies, open roads, and weekend escapes—but is your German car ready to handle the change in seasons? After months of battling winter roads, your vehicle may be hiding issues that could affect safety, comfort, and performance as the temperatures rise.
At Mountain View Imports, we know exactly what to look for when preparing high-performance European vehicles for spring. Before you head out for your next adventure, here’s what every BMW, Audi, or Mercedes owner should know about transitioning their vehicle out of winter mode.
Why Spring Maintenance Matters for German Cars
German vehicles are built for precision and performance, but even the best need seasonal care especially after a harsh Oregon winter. Cold temperatures, snow, road salt, and moisture can quietly wear down your car’s most important systems.
At Mountain View Imports, we regularly see the following issues during spring inspections:
- Worn tires – Winter roads often cause uneven tread wear and sidewall damage, reducing traction and safety.
- Weak A/C performance – Systems that sit unused in winter may fail to cool properly when spring hits.
- Coolant leaks – Cold temps can cause rubber hoses to crack, leading to overheating when the weather warms up.
- Battery drain – Cold weather weakens battery life, and many fail right as spring begins.
- Brake and suspension wear – Icy roads and potholes stress your brakes and suspension, affecting ride quality and safety.
Spring is the ideal time to catch these issues early. Our spring car check-up is tailored for European car repair, especially for German makes like BMW, Audi, VW, Porsche, and Mercedes-Benz. A little maintenance now can prevent big problems down the road.
Top 6 Spring Issues German Car Owners Should Watch Out For
Spring is the perfect time to give your vehicle a post-winter check-up, especially if you drive a precision-engineered German car. These vehicles are built to perform, but seasonal shifts can expose wear and tear that winter has left behind. Below are six of the most common issues we see this time of year—and why addressing them early can save you from costly repairs down the road.
1. Weak or Failing A/C Systems
After a long winter, your vehicle’s air conditioning system might not be functioning at full capacity. If your air isn’t blowing as cold as it should, or you hear strange noises when the system kicks on, it’s time for a vehicle A/C service.
At Mountain View Imports, we specialize in diagnosing, servicing, and repairing both traditional and modern automotive A/C systems. Whether your vehicle uses R-134a or the newer R-1234yf refrigerant, our expert technicians have the tools, training, and experience to keep you cool and comfortable.
Tip: Schedule an A/C check before the first heatwave hits. Appointments fill up quickly as temperatures rise.
2. Coolant Leaks and Overheating Risks
Coolant is your engine’s best friend, especially when outside temperatures start to climb. Cold weather can cause rubber seals and hoses to shrink or crack. This leads to coolant leaks that compromise your engine’s ability to stay cool.
We see this issue frequently with German vehicles because they are built with high-performance engines that run hotter by design. Our technicians will inspect your system for leaks, pressure test it, and ensure your coolant is at the right level and concentration.
Warning Signs:
- Puddles under your car
- Sweet-smelling fluid
- Engine temperature rising unusually fast
3. Uneven Tire Wear and Inflation Problems
Tires take a beating during the winter months. Whether it’s potholes, road salt, or fluctuating temperatures, your tires may have suffered more than you realize. Spring is the perfect time for a comprehensive tire inspection to assess wear patterns, check tread depth, and ensure proper inflation.
For German vehicles, tire quality, rotation, and proper alignment are critical to maintaining handling, performance, and safety. At Mountain View Imports, we offer tire sales, repairs, and professional tire rotations to help you get the most out of your investment. Whether you need a quick patch, a complete replacement, or regular maintenance, our team ensures your tires are ready for the road ahead.
If an alignment is needed, we work closely with a trusted local partner to make sure your vehicle’s steering and suspension geometry are set correctly — helping you maximize tire life and maintain a smooth, safe ride.
4. Brake and Suspension Wear
Did your brakes squeal a bit more this winter? Did your ride feel bumpier than usual? Cold weather and icy conditions can accelerate brake and suspension wear, especially if you’ve been driving on rough or salted roads.
German braking systems are precision-built and need to be maintained with the same level of care. We’ll inspect your rotors (we always replace, not turn them), pads, and suspension components like shocks and struts.
5. Fluid Condition and Contamination
Winter can thicken and degrade your vehicle’s fluids, especially if your car sat unused for long stretches. This includes oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and even your windshield washer fluid.
Mountain View Imports offers fluid flushes as part of our spring maintenance services. We use Liqui Moly for European vehicles and ensure each fluid is replaced with the right product for your make and model.
6. Battery Drain or Slow Starts
Cold weather puts a serious strain on your car’s battery. As temperatures drop, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down, reducing its ability to hold a charge. That strain often catches up with drivers in early spring, right when they’re ready to hit the road again.
If your vehicle is slow to start, your lights seem dimmer, or you hear a clicking sound when turning the key, these are clear signs your battery may be failing. At Mountain View Imports, we’ll test your battery’s charge, inspect the terminals for corrosion, and replace it if needed using quality parts suited for your vehicle.
A quick battery check now can save you from the inconvenience of a dead car during a busy weekday or on your way out of town for a weekend trip.
Spring Maintenance Checklist for Your German Vehicle
Here’s a quick-reference guide of car spring maintenance tasks to schedule this season. This checklist is tailored for German and other European vehicles, helping you get the most out of your investment.
Spring Car Check-Up Checklist
- A/C Performance Test and Recharge
- Coolant Leak Inspection
- Check and Top Off All Fluids (Oil, Brake, Power Steering, Coolant)
- Inspect and Replace Cabin & Engine Air Filters
- Battery Voltage and Terminal Check
- Full Tire Inspection and Rotation
- Brake Pad and Rotor Inspection
- Suspension and Steering Check
- Windshield Wiper Replacement
- Vehicle Diagnostics Scan (for warning lights or hidden codes)
If your vehicle hasn’t had service since before winter, we highly recommend booking a full spring inspection. It’s especially critical for performance-oriented German models. Regular care keeps your vehicle not only reliable but enjoyable to drive.
Why Choose Mountain View Imports for Your Spring Check-Up
- European Car Experts – Over 46 years of experience specializing in German and European vehicles like BMW, Audi, VW, and Mercedes-Benz.
- Top-Tier Diagnostic Tools – Equipped with Snap-On, Autel, and factory scan tool capabilities for almost all European vehicles, delivering dealership-level diagnostics and efficient repairs.
- Premium Parts & Products – We use trusted brands like Lemförder, Aisin, and BG Products to ensure quality and reliability in every service.
- Reputation for Honesty – Known in Bend for precision workmanship and a no-pressure, customer-first approach.
- Family-Owned Service – A local, family-run shop where the team treats every customer like part of the family.
- Comprehensive Warranty Coverage – We stand by our work with a 24-month/24,000-mile in-house warranty, plus the O’Reilly Nationwide Warranty for added peace of mind.
Schedule Your Spring Maintenance Today!
If you’re searching for German car repair or European car repair in Bend, Oregon, Mountain View Imports is your trusted local specialist. Don’t wait until a minor coolant leak turns into an overheated engine or your A/C gives out in the middle of a road trip.
Give us a call at (541) 389-3395, visit www.mvimports.com, or stop by our shop at 1112 SE Zeller Ln, Bend, OR 97702 to schedule your spring car check-up today. Our service advisors are happy to help you find a time that works. We offer early bird drop-off, a waiting area with outdoor seating, and even a courtesy car wash with every service.
