Your Seasonal Car Maintenance Checklist for Long-Lasting Performance

Seasons come and go, but the damage that changing weather conditions may inflict on vehicles can be permanent if not assessed and dealt with promptly. This is why it’s important to have seasonal check-ups every equinox and solstice.

Seasonal Check-Ups to Maximize Your Car

Some basic seasonal check-ups you can do include replacing the windshield wipers, checking battery performance, and changing the tires, among others.

Replace Windshield Wipers

The blades of your windshield wipers may need replacement once they exhibit signs of wear. Worn wiper blades could miss dirty spots and leave streaks, reducing visibility on the road.

You should also consider switching to a different type as the weather gets colder. For example, specialized wiper blades for winter are designed to clear snow and are more durable than regular ones.

Windshield wipers are also relatively cheap; you can get a new pair for less than $20. They’re also easy to install, and you can replace the wiper blades yourself. Do note that there’s a good chance the cheap ones don’t last as long. A better investment would be in beam style wiper blades.

Battery Performance Check

The battery is crucial for your vehicle to run. Extreme temperatures, such as cold weather, force the battery to work harder by slowing its chemical reactions.

A good car battery should be able to accept and hold a charge. You may hire a mechanic to look at it, but you can check the battery yourself using a multimeter. However, it’s still recommended to have a professional look at the battery, since they’ll have the know-how to properly diagnose it.

If the battery is dead, you can always replace it. It usually costs somewhere between $300 and $450 to get a new one.

Change Tires

Check your tires by looking at the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Also look for weather cracking on sidewalls and in between the tread. Any minor damage could worsen, as tires are the only component making contact with the rough road.

If it’s nearing winter, you should consider getting snow tires, which are softer rubber. This makes them flexible in colder temperatures, in addition to their treads designed for better grip in snow and ice.

Using regular tires during winter results in hardening tire compounds, decreasing traction and handling performance while increasing braking distance.

Check Coolant Levels

Having the right amount of coolant in your vehicle is crucial during the hotter months of the year because it keeps your car cool and prevents the engine from overheating. As such, it’s important to check the coolant level once summer is around the corner.

Extreme temperatures during winter could also result in your radiator or engine components freezing. Check your owner’s manual for the proper ratio, but a mixture of even parts antifreeze and water is usually recommended.

You should get your vehicle checked if the level falls below low and you suspect a leak in the system. If your vehicle needs a top-up, you can get a bottle of coolant for around $25.

Change the Oil and Inspect the Filter

Another fluid you should seasonally check is the oil. It keeps your car running smoothly by lubricating the parts. This also keeps the engine safe from wear and tear, as unlubricated parts could work roughly.

You can check the oil by following the steps below:

• Step 1: Ensure the vehicle is on even ground for accurate oil-level reading. Put it in the park and set the parking brake before turning the engine off.
• Step 2: Open the hood and look for the dipstick. It’s usually housed in a small tube leading downward and connecting to the crankcase, where the engine is stored.
• Step 3: Pull and clean the dipstick using a clean rage or paper towel.
• Step 4: Insert the clean dipstick into the tube and push it down. Withdraw the stick and check the tip. If there’s oil on the dipstick at the low mark, you’ll need to add oil. If there’s none, it means the oil level is low, and you’ll need to add some immediately.

While you’re at it, check the oil filter for leaks. The filter ensures the oil is clean and does its job effectively. If it’s damaged or dirty, then it’s time to change the oil filter.

Inspect the Brakes

Checking the brakes is crucial, regardless of the season. Any damage within the system requires immediate attention, as it’s dangerous to drive with malfunctioning brakes.

To do so remove the wheels and inspect the friction portion of the pads or shoes. If it looks like there is almost nothing there, then brake replacement is necessary.

You can test your braking system in an open area to avoid potentially crashing your vehicle. Or better yet, hire a mechanic to do it for you.

Check the Belts and Hoses

The belts and hoses tend to weaken in cold temperatures, especially during winter when a violent change from hot to cold occurs, resulting in possible cracking and breaking. These two are crucial in keeping your engine’s cooling, charging, and air conditioning systems functioning.

To check the belts and hoses, follow the steps below:

• Step 1: Let the engine cool.
• Step 3: Open the hood and look for both components. They’re usually in front of the engine.
• Step 4: Squeeze the hoses with your thumb and forefinger near the clamps. A good belt should feel firm yet pliant.
• Step 5: Inspect for cracks, nicks, bulges, or collapsed sections.

Interval of Seasonal Check-Ups

Seasonal check-ups are done to inspect the potential damage caused by changing weather conditions. As such, you should do them every three months or when the season changes. This way, you’re on top of possible issues, as you can prevent them in the first place.

Keeping up with the seasons, you can do the maintenance process listed above every March, June, September, and December.