A Subaru is great during the winter, thanks to its all-wheel drive. However, they need maintenance to ensure they run smoothly during the cold months. Before the cold sets in, a Subaru maintenance tech can help you get ready for frigid temperatures. Tires, heaters, fuel systems and more should be checked to ensure they are ready to keep you safe during the Northglenn, CO, winters.
Tires
Before the first snowflake falls, prioritize inspecting your tires; in areas with intense snow, consider switching to winter tires. It’s recommended to have a tire tread depth of 4/32 of an inch, which offers better traction in snow than the legal minimum of 2/32 inches. Cold weather can affect tire pressure, so monitor and adjust it regularly, and to ensure even wear, rotate your tires and be vigilant for any damages.
Fluids
Check all fluid levels. If it’s been several years since you flushed the coolant, now is a good time to do it. Antifreeze loses its protective qualities as it ages and becomes contaminated. Likewise, make sure you are keeping up with oil changes and that you have the proper viscosity oil for Colorado winters.
Charging System
Check the alternator and battery to ensure the alternator is properly charging and the battery is holding a charge. If the battery is close to its expiration date, it’s better to change it now rather than take a chance of being stranded. Finally, check the terminals for corrosion. Since corrosion causes resistance, you must clean it prior to the winter, or it will work with the cold to prevent you from starting the vehicle.
Heating and Defrost
Check the heater core, blower motor and blower motor resistor to ensure they are in good condition. Additionally, check the front and rear defrosters to make sure they are working. Without them, you won’t have the visibility you need to drive in Colorado’s winter conditions. Finally, replace the cabin air filter if you haven’t done that recently. If it’s dirty, the heating system will perform poorly.
Brakes
Have an Accurate Automotive technician check your vehicle’s brake pads and rotors to ensure they are in optimal condition. Make sure the anti-lock braking system is working properly. It can save you during winter driving.
Wiper Blades and Lights
Driving in a snowstorm is challenging, especially with subpar wipers. If it’s been more than a year since you’ve changed your wiper blades, consider replacing them now. Additionally, inspect your vehicle’s headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure maximum visibility for both you and others on the road.
All-Wheel Drive System
Check the differential fluid, driveshafts, axles and boots to ensure everything is in good condition for the winter. Make sure the all-wheel drive system is working properly.
Emergency Kit
When traveling, especially in rural areas with potentially uncleared roads, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle that includes a first aid kit, a warm blanket for each passenger, a change of warm, dry clothing for all, non-perishable goods for possible stranding (since even an all-wheel drive Subaru can falter on ice), 2 liters of water per passenger, waterproof matches, a firestarter kit with flammables like newspaper and dry lint, flashlights with extra batteries, a protective tarp, tow rope, portable shovel, and an ice scraper.
Contact a Subaru Repair Specialist at Accurate Automotive
For professional winter preparations, reach out to Accurate Automotive at (303) 451-6880. We’re situated at 10651 Irma Dr., G, Northglenn, CO, 80233, and ready to serve you.
