Keep your vehicle in peak
condition all year by following these seasonal tips.
Time
for some post-winter clean up in the Spring!
Tires
- Make sure you change from your snow or winter tires to regular all
season. This is a perfect time to rotate them to extend the life of the set.
Wiper Blades - Cold temps are hard on
rubber components and when salt comes into the mix, it deteriorates even
faster. Make sure you check the wiper fluid,
too!
Examine your brakes - Listen for
brake noises such as grinding, chatter, or squeals. Even if you don't hear
anything, it always helps to have a Mopar certified technician to determine the
wear on the pads or drums. We get used to worn down brakes without noticing.
Check all fluids - Top off as necessary.
Winter driving conditions require your engine to work harder and condensation
can cause moisture buildup in the engine and creates wear. Start fresh in the
Spring!
Summer's
heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic can take a real toll on your
vehicle.
Air Conditioning - You probably
want your a/c to blow cold so if it's not, you'll want this examined at your dealer's
service department.
Cooling System -
Would you believe the most common cause of summer breakdowns is overheating?
The cooling system should be flushed and refilled with factory approved
coolant. The coolant level and condition should be checked at every oil change.
Remember - never remove the radiator cap until the engine has
cooled.
Oil - The hot weather can be hard
on your oil and engine in addition to the extra summer miles you'll be driving.
Make sure you're getting your regular interval scheduled oil
changes.
Brakes - Always be inspecting
your brakes and feel for any pulsations, grabbing, noises, or increased
stopping distances. If you notice anything, make sure you schedule an
appointment for your dealer to look
at.
Mechanical failure, an
inconvenience anytime it occurs, can be deadly in winter. Preventative
maintenance is a must. Here's what we recommend doing for the fall and winter.
Heater/Defroster
- The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger
comfort and driver visibility. If you have any issues, now is the time to get
this looked at by your dealer. Stay warm and see out of your
windshield.
Battery - Batteries typically
last 3-5 years, and winter time failures are common due to increase
cold-starting electrical loads. The best way to identify a weak batter is with
professional test equipment. Routine care can help make your battery last
longer.
Lights - Winter has less
sunlight so your headlights will be on much more often. Inspect all lights and
replace and burned out bulbs.
Wiper
Blades - Cold temps are hard on rubber components and when salt comes
into the mix, it deteriorates even faster. Make sure you check the wiper fluid,
too! Start winter with a fresh set and feel confident that you'll be able to
take on the salty slush.
Carry emergency
gear - Gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty
litter, tire chains, and a flashlight. Also keep snacks and water just in
case.
