A quick seasonal check helps keep your car ready for Virginia weather. Plan ahead so you have time for a qualified mechanic to inspect anything that needs attention.
Check your owner's manual for exact intervals.
Before winter in Virginia
Battery: cold weather makes starting harder. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it and test the battery and charging system before the first freeze.
Tires: check cold pressure against the door label and look for worn tread or visible damage. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it for grip and winter tire needs; summer tires are not suitable for snow or freezing weather.
Coolant: check the reservoir level only with a cold engine. Have a qualified mechanic inspect it for leaks and test freeze protection. Never open a hot cooling-system cap.
Wipers and washer fluid: check that the glass clears well and use washer fluid rated for freezing temperatures. For streaking or needed replacement, have a qualified mechanic inspect it.
Emergency kit: pack a blanket, flashlight, phone charger, water, snacks, a small shovel, and an ice scraper. Keep roadside assistance information handy.
Before summer in Virginia
A/C: check that the cabin cools normally. If cooling is weak or there is an unusual smell, have a qualified mechanic inspect it before a hot-weather trip.
Coolant: check the cold reservoir level. For low levels, leaks, or a temperature warning, have a qualified mechanic inspect it; stop driving if the engine overheats.
Tires in heat: check pressure when cold, before driving or after the car has sat for at least three hours. Do not let air out just because pressure rises in hot tires.
Battery and visibility: have a qualified mechanic inspect it for battery condition, and check that wipers and lights work well. Heat can be tough on a 12-volt battery.
Keep water and a phone charger available. Never leave children or pets in a parked car, even for a short stop.
This guide is general information only and is not a substitute for your vehicle's owner's manual or an inspection by a qualified mechanic. Maintenance needs vary by make, model, and condition. A & F Auto Sales is not responsible for repairs or damage resulting from use of this information.
