Taking care of your car isn’t just about keeping it looking pristine; it’s essential for its longevity and performance. Each season brings unique challenges for car owners, from blazing summer heat to icy winter roads.
Adjusting your maintenance habits accordingly will ensure your car stays safe, efficient, and comfortable year-round.
Below, we’ll guide you through the importance of seasonal car care and share actionable tips for keeping your vehicle in top shape.
Summer Car Care
Long, hot days can take a toll on your car. Here are some key tips to ensure your vehicle breezes through the summer months.
Protect Your Paint and Interior
High summer temperatures and relentless sun exposure can fade your car’s paint and damage its interior. Regular washes are your best line of defense. Dust, dirt, and road debris can scratch your paintwork, while harmful UV rays can wreak havoc on your car’s exterior and interior. Protect your investment by giving it frequent washes and applying UV-protectant wax.
The Platinum Wash Package at Wash Hounds Express includes a clear coat protectant and tire shine, perfect for maintaining your car through the summer.
Keep Fluids in Check
Hot temperatures can cause your car’s vital fluids to evaporate faster. Pay special attention to engine coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Low levels of these fluids can lead to overheating or mechanical damage.
Stay Cool
A working air conditioning system is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity for summer driving. If your AC isn’t cooling as effectively as it used to, it might need to be recharged or inspected for leaks. Catching these issues early can help you avoid more costly repairs.
Fall Car Care
Autumn in full swing brings its own set of challenges for car maintenance. Falling leaves and fluctuating temperatures can impact your ride.
Clear Away Leaves and Debris
Leaves and other debris can build up in air vents, wipers, and under your hood, potentially causing mechanical issues. Be sure to sweep away any leaves before they clog critical components.
Clean the Undercarriage
Autumn is the perfect time to clean your car’s undercarriage. Wash away dirt, road salt, and any residue from summer drives to prevent damage and corrosion. Choose an underbody wash, like our Silver Wash Package, for added protection.
Check Tire Pressure
As temperatures drop, tire pressure can decrease. This impacts fuel efficiency and overall safety. Regularly check your tire pressure throughout the fall to ensure they’re at the recommended level.
Winter Car Care
Winter can be harsh on vehicles, but with the right preparations, you can keep your car running smoothly.
Protect Against Salt and Corrosion
Road salt used to combat ice on streets is crucial for safety but can corrode your car’s paint and undercarriage. Frequent washes are necessary to keep salt from building up and causing damage. The Platinum Wash Package at Wash Hounds includes an underbody wash designed to combat winter wear.
Prep Your Tires for Snow and Ice
Feel confident on icy roads with winter tires. These tires provide better traction and handling in freezing conditions. Inspect them regularly for proper tread depth and maintain correct pressure for optimal performance.
Keep Your Battery in Check
Cold weather can sap your car battery’s power. Test your battery and connections to ensure it’s strong enough to handle frigid temperatures. This small step can save you from being stranded on a chilly winter morning.
Stock Up on Wiper Fluid
Visibility is crucial during snowy conditions. Keep your windshield washer fluid full and consider switching to one with antifreeze properties to prevent freezing in icy weather.
Spring Car Care
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your vehicle after a long winter.
Wash Away Winter Grime
Salt and grime from winter roads can stick to your vehicle, causing potential rust and damage. A thorough exterior wash and wax will remove residues and protect your paint.
Wash Hounds’ The Works Package includes a ceramic coating with graphene and carnauba wax to restore your car’s shine.
Inspect and Replace Wipers
If your wipers took a beating over winter, now’s the time to replace them. Effective wipers ensure better visibility for those unpredictable spring showers.
Check for Pothole Damage
Winter roads often leave behind unavoidable potholes that can wreak havoc on your vehicle’s alignment, suspension, and tires.
Have your car inspected to spot any potential damage, and ensure your tires are balanced and properly inflated.
Drive Through Every Season Confidently
Taking a seasonal approach to car care goes beyond aesthetics. It protects your car’s engine, improves safety, and adds years to your vehicle’s life.
Whether you’re battling summer sun or winter ice, staying on top of seasonal maintenance tasks is simple with regular care and the help of professionals.
At Wash Hounds Express Car Wash & Oil Change, we make seasonal car care easy with premium wash packages, detailing services, and oil changes that meet your needs throughout the year.
Visit one of our six convenient locations and join our Unlimited Wash Club starting at just $24/month to keep your vehicle looking and performing at its best no matter the season.
