Here are some important tips to keep your car moving this summer

With summer right around the corner, it's a good time to check essential parts of your car.

Here are 5 things to do before summer begins, according to Mount Laurel-based Holman, one of the largest family-owned automotive service operations in North America:

• Check your car's alignment after winter. Potholes can leave your car unbalanced and this can lead to uneven tire wear and tear. Look for uneven tire wear, a shaky steering wheel, or the vehicle pulling to one side.

• Check your car's tire pressure to avoid flats and blowouts. Colder temperatures will lessen your tire's pressure while hotter temperatures can over inflate your tires. Having even tire pressure can also help extend your tires usage.

• Check your car's brakes. This is important year-round. Have a service professional look for thinning in brake pads when you're having tires checked, rotated, or replaced.

• A battery in a gas-powered car typically lasts three to five years. If nearing the end of this range struggle to start, it may be time to replace the battery.

• Making sure your windshield is intact is crucial as it can be a road hazard and lead to tickets. Also, dull windshield wiper blades can create a risk for yourself and other drivers.

Nick Butler is an impact reporter for the Courier Post, the Daily Journal and the Burlington County Times covering community news in South Jersey. Have any tips or stories? Reach out to [email protected]. Subscribe to stay in the loop.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Here are 5 ways to keep your car in good shape this summer