Vehicle Preparation For Different Climates

We can’t control Mother Nature, but we can control how prepared your vehicle is for her. Since driving conditions will vary throughout the year based on the region you live in, Reedman-Toll Subaru has helped us categorize three general types of climates and the ways in which you can prepare your vehicle for each.

Cold Weather Vehicle Prep

If you live in or spend a good amount of time in a colder climate, here are some common things to prepare your vehicle during the winter season:

Consider purchasing/switching to winter tires
Adjust tire pressure (cold temperatures decrease tire pressure)
Check tire tread depth
Check the oil level
Check all fluid levels
Make sure windshield washer fluid is suitable for freezing temps
Check the condition of wiper blades and exterior lights
Consider winter wiper blades
Test the battery
Check the brake pads and components
Check the heating and defroster systems

Moderate/Spring Weather Vehicle Prep

Moderate climates tend to have a mix between warm and cold climate zones with light snowfall in the winter and mild to warm summers with occasional rainfall. Some common seasonal vehicle preparations for a moderate climate are as follows:

Inspect the tires – pressure, tread depth and condition
Consider all-season tires
Check the oil level
Check all fluid levels
Inspect the heating, cooling and defroster system
Test the battery
Check the wipers and exterior lights
Check the components of the suspension system
Check the wheel alignment
Check the brake pads and components

Summer Vehicle Prep

Warmer climates usually produce mild to considerably warm temperatures all year long with rainfall occurring more often in the winter season.

Areas near mountains, deserts and the coast can bring about different weather patterns and temperatures, but generally here are some common check-ups recommended from season to season if you live in a warm climate: