Seasonal maintenance for your Toyota will help it perform its best, no matter the weather. A quick trip to the Toyota dealer a few times a year can make sure your car is always ready for the road.
Spring Maintenance
After a harsh winter, you need to wash your Toyota thoroughly, including the underside. Salt build-up can lead to rust and damage to the frame. Clean the interior as well, vacuuming the seats and carpets, washing the windows, and disinfecting surfaces that are touched frequently.
Check the air pressure in your tires and top them up if needed. Then, check under the hood. Inspect your hoses and belts for wear, and check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Spring is also a great time to check and replace the engine air filter and cabin air filter, if necessary. Check the condition of your wiper blades to see if they should be replaced, too.
Summer Maintenance
If you’re planning to travel during the summer, you should change your engine oil and filter to keep your engine lubricated. It’s also a good time to head to the dealership to have your tire alignment checked and your brakes inspected.
Check your fluids again, including power steering and transmission fluid. As temperatures rise, check your tire pressure more frequently to make sure they are properly inflated.
Fall Maintenance
Perform a visual check of your battery. Make sure the cable and terminals are clean and free from corrosion. For extra peace of mind, have your battery tested to be sure it still carries a strong charge. Test all of your lights to make sure they work properly and replace any dim or burned-out bulbs.
Test the heater and defroster to ensure they will keep you warm in freezing temperatures. Then, have your steering, suspension, and tires inspected at the dealership to be sure they’re up for the challenge of winter weather. Take the time to have your tires rotated and balanced.
Winter Maintenance
As soon as temperatures consistently dip below 45 degrees, it’s time to switch to winter tires. These tires provide better traction on snow and ice. Fill up your antifreeze or coolant to avoid engine freezing, and take another look at your wiper blades to see if they are ready for the upcoming weather. Freezing temperatures can also cause low tire pressure, so check them every week to help maintain traction on slippery surfaces.
Prepare an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle in case of trouble. Include gloves, an ice scraper, flares, a blanket, a first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight with fresh batteries, a cell phone charger, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks.
Don’t neglect your Toyota’s maintenance needs. Visit Priority Toyota of Chesapeake in Chesapeake, VA, and let us help you keep your car running well in every season.
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