Spring is finally here, but before you twist the key, make sure your first drive of the season isn't your last. "WakinSpring is finally here, but before you twist the key, make sure your first drive of the season isn't your last. "Waking up" a car involves more than just a quick battery charge. To help you start the season right, AutoGuide teamed up with Bryant Kolle from Hagerty to answer the top questions from our enthusiast community.1. Avoid the "Driveway Disaster"The most common mistake? Ignoring the brakes. After months of sitting, rotors can develop surface rust or systems can lose hydraulic pressure.The Fix: Before shifting into gear, pump the brake pedal several times and test the engagement on level ground. Don't let your excitement turn into a collision with your own garage door.2. The Fuel FactorForgot the fuel stabilizer in November? Don't panic. Modern high-octane fuels are generally stable for 3 to 6 months. If you’ve only been away for a standard winter, a fresh top-off and a long drive to cycle the system should suffice.3. Check for "Roommates"Your engine bay is a five-star hotel for rodents. Before starting the car, perform a visual sweep for:Nests: Check the airbox and cabin filters.Wiring: Look for frayed or chewed harnesses.Exhaust: Ensure no one has turned your tailpipe into a pantry for acorns.4. Collector Coverage for Modern CarsThink your 2000s "modern classic" doesn't qualify for specialized insurance? Think again. Bryant notes that many 90s, 00s, and even new enthusiast models qualify for collector policies, which often offer better protection for significantly lower premiums than standard insurance.Ready for the full technical deep dive? Watch our "Ask the Expert" video to learn about oil priming, tire flat-spotting, and more.