Seasonal Maintenance

Keep your vehicle in peak condition all year by following these seasonal tips. Learn more with Tate Branch in Carlsbad, NM today!

SPRING
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
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 – 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.
Oils – 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. Our service department can help you with questions like “How often should I change my oil?“.	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.

FALL & WINTER
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.