Seasonal
Seasonal maintenance
Spring, summer, autumn and winter routines covering tire pressure, battery health, cooling and visibility.
Typical interval: Quarterly
Seasons change the demands on a vehicle more sharply than mileage does. Tire pressure falls roughly one PSI for every ten degrees Fahrenheit the temperature drops, and battery cranking capacity falls with it.
Before summer, the cooling system carries the load: coolant condition, cap seal, fan operation and a radiator core free of debris. Before winter, attention shifts to battery health, washer fluid rating, blade condition and tread depth.
After exposure to road salt, rinse the undercarriage and wheel wells. Salt continues working on brake and suspension hardware long after the roads are clear.
What to check
- Reset tire pressures at each seasonal change
- Test battery condition before the first cold snap
- Inspect coolant and cap before summer heat
- Rinse the undercarriage after salt exposure
Also worth knowing
- Cold weather battery and pressure changes
- Cooling system readiness before summer heat
- Undercarriage rinsing after road salt exposure
AutoLab Maintenance publishes general vehicle maintenance information. Our guides, checklists and reminders are informational only and do not replace your owner's manual or the judgment of a qualified technician. Always follow the manufacturer service schedule for your specific vehicle.