Seasonal Car Care Checklist

What your car needs as the seasons change. Prevent problems before they start.

Spring Maintenance

After winter, your car needs attention. Salt, cold, and harsh conditions take a toll.

Priority Tasks

1. Wash and Wax

• Remove road salt from body and undercarriage
• Undercarriage wash is critical (salt causes rust)
• Apply wax for summer sun protection

2. Check Tire Condition

• Look for winter damage (cracks, bulges)
• Check tread depth after winter wear
• Consider switching from winter tires
• Check pressure (changes with temperature)

3. Replace Wiper Blades

• Winter destroys wiper blades
• Replace if streaking or chattering
• Consider rain-repellent coating for windshield

4. Test AC System

• Run it before you need it
• Should blow cold within 2-3 minutes
• Get it checked now if not working

Secondary Tasks

• Check brake pads (winter driving is hard on brakes)
• Inspect battery (cold weather weakens batteries)
• Replace cabin air filter (pollen season)
• Check alignment (potholes cause problems)

Spring Checklist

Summer Maintenance

Heat and road trips stress your car differently than winter.

Priority Tasks

1. Cooling System Check

• Check coolant level
• Look for leaks
• Check hoses for cracks or soft spots
• Consider coolant flush if due

2. AC Service

• Should blow cold (40-50°F at vent)
• Get recharged if weak
• Check cabin filter

3. Tire Pressure

• Heat increases pressure
• Check when tires are cold
• Over-inflation causes problems too

4. Oil Change

• Follow your schedule
• Consider synthetic if doing lots of highway
• Heat is hard on oil

Secondary Tasks

• Check belts for wear
• Top off washer fluid
• Test battery (heat kills batteries too)
• Clean interior (prevent heat damage)
• Use sunshade for windshield

Summer Checklist

Road Trip Prep

If you're planning a long trip:

• Check all fluids
• Inspect tires (including spare)
• Test all lights
• Make sure jack and tools are present
• Pack emergency kit

Fall Maintenance

Prepare for winter conditions before they arrive.

Priority Tasks

1. Battery Test

• Cold weather is coming
• Have it tested (free at most auto parts stores)
• Replace if weak (batteries don't warn you)

2. Antifreeze/Coolant Check

• Should protect to -34°F minimum
• Have it tested or replace
• Mix should be 50/50 water/coolant

3. Tire Inspection

• Check tread depth (need more for wet/snow)
• Consider winter tires if in cold climate
• Check pressure (drops with temperature)

4. Heating System Test

• Turn on before you need it
• Check for unusual smells
• Make sure all vents work

Secondary Tasks

• Replace wiper blades
• Fill washer fluid (winter formula)
• Check all lights (shorter days)
• Inspect brakes
• Check defrost system (front and rear)

Fall Checklist

Winter Maintenance

Keep your car running reliably in the harshest conditions.

Priority Tasks

1. Keep Fuel Tank Full

• Prevents fuel line freeze
• Keeps fuel pump submerged
• You're prepared for emergencies
• Aim for half-tank minimum

2. Monitor Tire Pressure

• Pressure drops 1 PSI per 10°F
• Check every few weeks
• Under-inflation is dangerous on snow/ice

3. Watch Battery Health

• Cold starts are hardest on batteries
• Listen for slow cranking
• Jump start kit in car is smart

4. Keep Washer Fluid Topped Off

• Salt spray uses it quickly
• Use winter formula (-20°F or better)
• Keep spare bottle in trunk

Secondary Tasks

• Keep gas cap tight
• Remove ice from windows (don't use hot water)
• Let car warm 30-60 seconds before driving
• Don't neglect washes (salt causes rust)
• Check tire tread depth

Winter Emergency Kit

Keep in your car:

• Blanket
• Phone charger
• Flashlight
• Ice scraper/brush
• Small shovel
• Jumper cables or jump pack
• Gloves and hat
• Bottled water
• Snacks

Winter Checklist

Year-Round Schedule

Every Month

• Check tire pressure
• Check all fluids (visual)
• Look for leaks under car
• Test all lights
• Listen for new sounds

Every 3 Months / 3,000 Miles

• Oil change (if conventional)
• Check tire wear patterns
• Inspect wiper blades

Every 6 Months / 6,000 Miles

• Oil change (if synthetic, check manual)
• Rotate tires
• Check battery
• Replace cabin air filter
• Top off fluids

Every Year / 12,000 Miles

• Replace engine air filter
• Brake inspection
• Alignment check
• Belt and hose inspection
• Battery test

Climate-Specific Tips

Hot/Desert Climates

• Check coolant more often
• Protect interior from sun
• Battery life is shorter (3-4 years)
• AC needs regular service
• UV damages belts and hoses faster

Cold/Snow Climates

• Rustproofing is worthwhile
• Winter tires are essential
• Battery should be newer (under 4 years)
• Undercarriage wash monthly
• Keep fuel tank fuller

Coastal/Humid Climates

• Salt air causes corrosion
• Wash regularly
• Check for rust often
• Wax more frequently
• Battery terminals corrode faster

Rainy Climates

• Wiper blades replaced more often
• Good tires critical
• Check lights frequently
• Rain-X or similar helpful
• Watch for hydroplaning with worn tires

Cost Estimates by Season

Spring

Summer

Fall

Winter

The Bottom Line

Seasonal maintenance prevents expensive repairs and keeps you safe.

Key takeaways:

• Spring: Clean off winter, prepare for heat
• Summer: Keep cool, prepare for trips
• Fall: Prepare for cold before it arrives
• Winter: Monitor weekly, stay prepared

Five minutes of attention per week catches problems early. Your car will last longer, run better, and keep you safer.

Last updated: January 2025