Maintenance by the Seasons: What to Watch for Year-Round 

Posted on in Auto Maintenance

Your car’s needs change with the seasons—just like how your wardrobe, routine, and even the way you drive adjust based on the weather. Whether it's the harsh cold of winter or the sweltering heat of summer, every season comes with its own set of challenges for your vehicle. Keeping up with seasonal maintenance ensures your car stays in top shape all year long and helps prevent breakdowns that can leave you stranded. 

At Auto Stop, we’ve put together seasonal checklists to help you keep your vehicle performing at its best, no matter the time of year. Here’s what you should watch for during each season. 

Spring: Tire Alignment, Wipers, and Pollen Filters 

After the rough winter roads and fluctuating temperatures, spring is the perfect time to make sure your car is ready for warmer weather. 

  1. Tire Alignment

Winter can cause changes in your tire alignment, especially if you've hit potholes or curbs while driving on icy or snow-covered roads. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, poor handling, and reduced fuel efficiency. 

  • What to Check: During spring, have your tire alignment checked to make sure your car drives smoothly and your tires wear evenly. If you notice your steering wheel pulling to one side or your car drifting off-center, it’s time for an alignment. 
  1. Wipers

With the wet weather of spring, your wipers need to be in top condition to keep your view clear. Worn-out wiper blades can leave streaks or fail to clear water properly, compromising your safety. 

  • What to Check: Check the condition of your wiper blades for signs of cracks or fraying. Replace them if necessary. Also, make sure your windshield washer fluid is full and ready for spring showers. 
  1. Pollen Filters (Cabin Air Filters)

Spring brings pollen, dust, and other allergens into the air, which can clog up your cabin air filter. A clogged filter can reduce airflow through your car’s vents, causing poor air circulation and potentially triggering allergies. 

  • What to Check: Replace your cabin air filter to ensure you’re breathing clean air and that your air conditioning system works efficiently. 

Summer: AC, Battery, and Coolant 

Summer is the time for long road trips, beach days, and hot temperatures, which can take a toll on your vehicle’s systems. Proper maintenance before the heat hits can save you from uncomfortable breakdowns. 

  1. Air Conditioning

Summer heat can make your A/C system work overtime. If your air conditioning isn’t working efficiently, it could leave you sweltering in traffic. 

  • What to Check: Have your A/C system checked to ensure it’s blowing cold air. Check for any leaks or issues with the refrigerant levels, as these can impact performance. 
  1. Battery

Hot weather can be hard on your car’s battery. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can cause the battery to fail prematurely. The summer heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, leading to damage. 

  • What to Check: Inspect the battery for any corrosion on the terminals and make sure it’s holding a charge. If your battery is over three years old, it’s worth having it tested to avoid surprises during the hot summer months. 
  1. Coolant

Your engine coolant system works overtime in the summer to prevent your car from overheating. Low coolant levels or old, dirty coolant can result in your engine running too hot, potentially causing serious damage. 

  • What to Check: Check your coolant level and ensure it’s filled to the correct level. If it looks rusty or dirty, it’s time for a coolant flush. 

Fall: Brakes, Tires, and Lights 

As temperatures cool down and daylight hours shorten, fall is a great time to prepare for the colder months ahead. Road conditions may be dry or wet, and shorter days can affect your visibility. 

  1. Brakes

Your brakes are your first line of defense against accidents, and they need to be in perfect condition as we approach slippery roads in winter. 

  • What to Check: Inspect the brake pads and fluid. If your brakes are squealing, feel soft, or you notice any unusual noises, have them serviced before the colder weather arrives. 
  1. Tires

Tires wear differently depending on the season. In fall, check the tread depth and look for any damage from the summer heat. If you drive in areas with snow or ice, it’s a good time to start thinking about switching to winter tires. 

  • What to Check: Make sure the tread depth is adequate, and check for any punctures or bulges in the tires. If you’re planning on switching to winter tires, now is the time to make that transition. 
  1. Lights

Shorter days mean more driving in low-light conditions. Having working lights is crucial for both visibility and safety. 

  • What to Check: Inspect your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they are functioning properly. If any bulbs are out, replace them before you get caught in the dark. 

Winter: Wipers, Battery, and Fluids 

Winter conditions can be tough on your vehicle, with freezing temperatures, snow, and ice. Taking the time to check essential systems can help you avoid breakdowns when the weather turns harsh. 

  1. Wipers

Winter weather can be hard on your wiper blades, especially with snow and ice buildup. Having effective wipers is crucial for maintaining visibility during a winter storm. 

  • What to Check: Make sure your wipers are in good condition and equipped with winter blades if necessary. Also, ensure your washer fluid is topped off and contains antifreeze to prevent it from freezing in cold temperatures. 
  1. Battery

Cold temperatures can cause your car battery to lose power quickly. If your battery is weak, it might struggle to start your car in the morning when temperatures dip. 

  • What to Check: Have your battery tested, especially if it’s older than three years. If it’s showing signs of corrosion or poor performance, consider replacing it before the cold weather hits. 
  1. Fluids

Winter is the time when your car’s fluids need to be in top condition to keep the engine running smoothly and to prevent freezing. This includes engine oil, coolant, and power steering fluid. 

  • What to Check: Ensure that all your fluids are at the proper levels, and consider switching to winter-grade oil if necessary. Check your coolant and antifreeze to make sure it’s properly mixed to prevent freezing. 

Need a seasonal check-up? Auto Stop offers full inspections to get you ready for the road ahead—no matter the weather. Don’t wait until the weather turns to find out your car isn’t prepared. Book your seasonal maintenance appointment today and keep your car running smoothly all year long! 

Written by Auto Stop