The warmer months are coming – well, hopefully – and that means it’s time to get your van and car out of winter mode and ready for spring and summer.

Here are five simple ways you to ensure you keep your vehicle running smoothly as the temperatures rise.

start with a service

First things first, is your car all topped up and ready to go after the chillier months?

If it’s due a service you could let the professionals cast their eye over it, if not there are some key areas that need some attention: the tyres, including tread and pressure; the windscreen washer, which might need topping up after all that winter cleaning; and the oil, which can be checked with the dipstick. Be sure to ask a local expert if you need any help.

a good tidy

Yes, it’s a simple step but it’s the most important – clear out the rubbish!

Once you’ve thrown away all the empty cans, wrappers, air fresheners and whatever else might be cluttering up the car, look in the boot and behind the seats. Any unnecessary weight, from huge winter coats to that tent from the last camping trip, can he stashed away ready for when you next need them.

Not only is this decluttering your vehicle, it will also save you some money on fuel by keeping the weight down.

vacuum the dust

When was the last time you cleaned the floors and upholstery of your car?

Now that all the junk is out of the way, you might be surprised at the dust you find gathering under the mats and down the sides of the seats.

Get the vacuum out and give it a good once-over – you might be surprised at the difference it can make.

gleam machine

With the interior all done, including under the bonnet, it’s time to make sure the exterior is looking its best. The quickest way of doing this might be to visit the nearest car wash, but there’s no reason you can’t roll up your sleeves and do it at the home.

Start with the tyres, which are probably the dirtiest and most stubborn part of the vehicle, and then move on to the body itself, which should be washed carefully with some car wash solution and the appropriate sponge or wash glove.

finishing touches

Your vehicle is ready and good to go, but if you really want to look after your prized mode of transport you could invest in a good waxing to keep it cleaner for longer, and easier to clean next time. Give it a hard wax for that extra layer of protection and it will be a gleam machine for even longer.