Fall Maintenance Tips

Get Your Vehicle Ready for those Frigid Winters

Alberta winters can be brutal, especially when storms and frigid temperatures roll in, so it is important to check your vehicle in the fall to make sure it is proper working condition for the coming months. There are several things you can check yourself and if you need maintenance or repairs, take your vehicle down to Eastside Dodge in Calgary, AB and our service team will be happy to take a look at anything you may need.

Check the Brakes and Tires

One of the most important things you need to check before winter the brakes and tires to ensure they are in good working condition. The roads can be extremely icy and checking them can be the difference between driving safely or having no control at all. Check the tread of the tires and get them replaced if there is it low or there are any other physical issues noticed. Also check the brake pads to ensure they are not too worn out and replace them if necessary.

Check the Lights

Winter nights in Alberta can be very dark and offer little visibility so having properly functioning headlights is crucial. Walk around the car and check the operation of all lights: headlights, tail lights, parking lights, brake lights, and emergency flashers. Replace any bulbs that are not working and upgrade headlights if you desire headlights that are brighter for you, your passengers, and those you share the roads with. If you have an older vehicle you may want to get halogen lamps for improved visibility.

Inspect Under the Hood

Checking under the hood will allow you to see if there are any obvious signs of wear and tear that require replacing. Look for leaks, cracks, brittleness in hoses, frayed belts, and so on. Replace anything that needs replacing and come visit Eastside Dodge if there's anything you require assistance with. Make sure the battery is fully charged and there is corrosion on it. Check the coolant levels and top up if needed. Do the same for all fluids including washer, transmission, brake, and power steering to ensure they are above minimum levels and ready to go. Also check the oil and take the vehicle in for an oil change if required.

Make Sure Heater and Defroster Work

If you don't want to freeze while anywhere in Alberta during the winter having a working heater is crucial. Make sure the defroster is in good working condition as well, able to clear foggy windows effectively, and get any necessary repairs made before you really need these essentials.

Get a Car Wash or Detail

As it gets colder there is a higher likelihood of summer dirt and bugs freezing to the vehicle. It is a good idea to take your car in for a proper car wash or, if you desire, a meticulous detail is even better.

For Any and All of your Winter Maintenance or Repair Needs Visit Eastside Dodge

As the days get shorter and the weather colder it becomes more important than ever to ensure your vehicle is in good working for the coming winter months. For any vehicle maintenance or repairs come down to Eastside Dodge and our team will be happy to help with whatever your needs require. We are located at 815 36 St. NE, Calgary, AB T2A 4W3 or you can give our expert Service Staff a call at (403) 273-4313 for any inquiries.