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Getting Your Car Ready: Summer Vs. Winter

Roberta Willson • May 15, 2024

There are many differences from the winter months to summertime and I am not just talking about the weather! Your car reacts differently and therefore needs to be taken care of differently. Here are 5 items to check when switching your vehicle from the winter to the summer months. 

1. Car Battery 

Winter is over, it’s time to get ready for those summer days with your A.C. running for those fun road trips. Just like at the beginning of winter, testing your battery is important to do before you find yourself stuck with a dead battery mid-road trip! Testing your battery strength can be done by your local mechanic, who will be able to recommend if it’s time for a new one. 


2. Tires 

Here in New England, you may have winter tires on your vehicle. The start of Spring is the time to switch your tires from winter tires to summer ones. If you have not saved your old summer tires from last season or it’s time to replace them, don’t forget R. H. Willson sells used tires


3. Oil and Fluids 

Allow yourself time to get your vehicle summer-ready. You will want to check your oil, take it in for an oil change, and ensure all your fluids (coolant, windshield fluid, etc.) are checked and filled. 

4. Filters

Living in New England means living with your car heat on all winter; so you will want to check your filters to see if any of them need to be changed before the summer season. You will want to check your air filter, cabin filter, and oil filter just to start. It’s recommended to bring your vehicle to a mechanic if you cannot do these things to ensure your vehicle is ready for summer.


5. Wipers

One last summer-ready checklist item is your windshield wipers. These get overused in the winter months with snow, ice, rain, and the use of your washer fluid. If streaks are left behind after your wiper blades, it’s probably time for a new pair. You can pick some new wipers up at most auto parts stores and some places will even help you install them at no extra cost. 

Summertime is here and to ensure a safe and fun summer, please remember to take care of your vehicle; spend a little extra time before you head out on that summer road trip. If you need any help or any used auto parts to help, please give us a call today! 

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