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California
1 Main St., Placerville
95667, CA
(111)222-3333
admin@placervilleautomechanic.com
The shop quickly found the issue with my check engine light, made an action plan, and fixed my car’s issues quickly and transparently.
Testimonial by Alexa Gorman:
/
Posted 2 months ago
★★★★★
Maintaining your car throughout the year involves understanding how different seasons impact its performance and condition. Seasonal changes bring unique challenges, from extreme temperatures to varying road conditions, requiring specific care to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly and safely. This page describes the essential maintenance tasks for each season, providing checklists to guide you through winter, spring, summer, and fall. By following these seasonal checklists, you can address weather-related wear and tear, optimize your car’s performance, and extend its lifespan, keeping you safe and preventing costly repairs.
Check your Battery
Cold weather can significantly impact your car’s battery performance. Test your battery and replace it if it’s more than a few years old or showing signs of weakness. Ensure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion to maintain a strong electrical connection.
Inspect and Change Wiper Blades
Winter brings snow, ice, and salt, all of which can obstruct your view. Make sure your wiper blades are in good condition and replace them if necessary. Use winter-specific wiper blades designed to handle ice and snow. Fill your windshield washer reservoir with a winter-specific washer fluid that won’t freeze.
Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, so regularly check and adjust the pressure to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth for optimal traction on icy or snowy roads. Consider switching to winter tires for better grip and safety during the winter months
Inspect and Rotate Tires
As temperatures rise, check your tires for uneven wear and rotate them to ensure even tread wear. This is also a good time to switch back to all-season tires if you’ve been using winter tires. Proper tire maintenance can extend tire life and improve fuel efficiency.
Replace Air Filters
Spring often brings pollen and debris, which can clog your car’s air filters. Replace the cabin air filter to ensure clean air inside the vehicle and the engine air filter to maintain optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency.
Check Brakes and Suspension
After the wear and tear from winter driving conditions, inspect your brakes for any signs of wear or damage, such as squeaking or reduced braking performance. Also, check your suspension system for any issues that might have arisen from driving over winter potholes and rough roads.
Test and Recharge the Air Conditioning System
As summer temperatures rise, ensure your air conditioning system is working efficiently. Have it inspected and recharged if necessary to avoid discomfort during hot days. Regular maintenance can prevent costly repairs and keep the system running smoothly.
Monitor Coolant Levels and Radiator Health
High temperatures can cause your engine to overheat. Check the coolant levels and top up if necessary. Inspect the radiator and hoses for leaks or damage. Flushing the cooling system and replacing old coolant can help prevent overheating and engine damage.
Check Tire Condition and Alignment
Heat can affect tire pressure and exacerbate wear. Regularly check tire pressure and adjust as needed. Inspect for signs of wear or damage and ensure the tires are properly aligned to avoid uneven wear and improve fuel efficiency.
Check and Replace Wiper Blades and Fluids
Autumn often brings increased rainfall and wet conditions, making clear visibility crucial. Inspect your wiper blades for any signs of wear or damage and replace them if they are not effectively clearing your windshield. Also, top off your windshield washer fluid and consider using a washer fluid with antifreeze properties to prepare for the coming winter.
Inspect and Service Your Heating System
As temperatures start to drop, ensure your car’s heating system is working properly. Test the heater to make sure it’s blowing warm air. If the heater is not performing well, it could be a sign of a clogged heater core or other issues that should be addressed before winter arrives.
Check Battery and Electrical System
Cooler temperatures can put extra strain on your car’s battery. Test the battery’s voltage and inspect the connections for any signs of corrosion. If your battery is old or shows signs of weakening, consider replacing it to avoid unexpected breakdowns as the weather gets colder. Additionally, check that all lights (headlights, brake lights, and indicators) are functioning properly as shorter days mean more driving in the dark.