Seasonal Car Maintenance

Before you know it, the weather will change and you'll have to make the necessary lifestyle adjustments. But it's wise to anticipate the new season before it arrives, especially when it comes to your vehicle. The last thing you need is to break down in an isolated area because of a preventable problem.

So here's a checklist for seasonal car maintenance to get your vehicle in tiptop shape before the temperatures rise or fall.

First, you should check the air pressure in all four tires and inflate them to the level recommended by the manufacturer. Then take your hand and run it along the tread, inside, and outside of each tire as you look for objects which may be stuck in the rubber and causing leaks. Finally, measure the tread of every tire with a penny. If you stick a penny in the groove and can see all of Lincoln's head, your tread is too thin and the tire needs to be replaced.

Tug on the cables to ensure that they are fastened properly. Scrape away any debris you may see on the connecting points where the cables meet the battery. You can get your battery's power checked at any repair shop or auto parts store.

The best time to figure out when your hoses or belts need to be replaced is when you are safe in your garage, not stranded on the roadside. Look for worn edges and partial tears on your belts. For the hoses, use your hands to check them for rips or holes, and make sure they are fastened properly at both ends. Replace worn belts and hoses as soon as possible.

You should refer to your vehicle's owner's manual - but generally speaking, use a heavier weight oil during the winter and a lighter grade for summertime. If necessary, have your oil changed and oil filter replaced, and take a quick look around your driveway or garage floor to see if you spot any evidence of leaking oil.

Whether you're anticipating stifling heat or bone-chilling cold, your vehicle needs to be protected from the elements. Use at least a 50/50 mixture of water and antifreeze/coolant and fill the reservoir completely. Also, inspect your radiator cap to make sure it is forming a tight seal when it is locked in place.

Yes, this probably involves taking your vehicle in to a repair shop, but it's worth the trip. A breakdown of your AC or heater in the middle of the season will cost you a lot of money and make you miserable while driving. Before you go in, remove any pine needles, leaves, or other debris which may be lodged in the radiator fins or AC condenser.

This is any easy fix which will prevent you from driving blind if you get caught in a rainstorm or snowstorm. If the blades look worn, replace them with a new set. Fill up your windshield wiper fluid; and before wintertime, make sure that your wiper fluid contains de-icing substances.

Your vehicle should always contain a roadside emergency kit (and it's not a bad idea to check on the quality of its contents). But in summer conditions, you should keep a gallon jug of water in your trunk in case of emergency. In winter, make sure you have blankets available in case you get stranded.

Photo credits: Charles Williams (#2), time_anchor (#3), Clean Wal-Mart (#4), EvelynGiggles (#5), Phil_Parker (#7), David Guo's Master (#8 - 1st)