Winter driving can be tough on your car, especially after a long holiday road trip. Follow this winter car maintenance checklist to help keep things running smoothly.
The holidays are behind us, but your vehicle might still be recovering from all those road trips, stop-and-go traffic, and the extra miles you racked up. If you drove through winter weather (or just took a holiday adventure out of Robstown), it’s time to make sure your car is ready to conquer the new year.
Taking care of your car doesn’t have to be complicated! With this winter car maintenance checklist, you’ll know exactly what to check and when.
Whether your recent travels included rough roads or chilly mornings, winter driving puts extra wear and tear on your car. Here’s what to keep an eye on to stay on top of car maintenance for winter:
Long drives and heavy holiday traffic can push your engine to its limits. Even if you’re close to your last oil change date, all those extra miles may have pushed you past the recommended oil change interval. Fresh oil keeps your engine running smoothly by reducing friction and protecting moving parts – don’t skip it!
Stop-and-go traffic during the holidays is hard on your brakes. If you hear squeaks, feel vibrations when braking, or it’s been a while since your last checkup, it’s time to have your brakes inspected. A quick brake service can save you from bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
Your tires work hard to keep you on the road, and they need a little TLC too. Rotating and balancing your tires ensures even wear, which helps them last longer and maintain traction. While you’re at it, have your tires inspected for punctures or signs of damage. Let’s face it – nobody wants a flat tire ruining their day!
If you traveled outside of southern Texas and hit snowy or icy roads, your car’s exterior needs some love. Wondering, does road salt damage cars? Yes, it does! Salt and road chemicals can corrode the underside of your vehicle and damage its paint. A good wash – especially focusing on the undercarriage – will help protect your car from rust and corrosion.
Cold mornings can be tough on your battery. Have you noticed your car hesitating to start or your hybrid vehicle losing range in winter? That’s because cold weather can impact battery performance. If you want to know how to protect your car battery in winter, the answer is simple: drive your car regularly! Driving helps keep the battery charged and healthy. If you’re still having trouble, visit us to have your battery inspected.
Potholes, curbs, and bumpy roads can throw off your alignment or strain your suspension. If your steering feels off or your ride isn’t as smooth as it used to be, have your alignment and suspension checked. It’s a simple fix that makes a big difference for your ride and comfort.
Even with regular maintenance, some issues can pop up after a long road trip. Keep an eye out for:
If you notice any of these, don’t wait – bring your vehicle to Hicks Family Nissan for expert service.
At Hicks Family Nissan, we’re here to help keep your car in tip-top shape, no matter the season. Our friendly, certified technicians handle it all – oil changes, battery replacements, brake inspections, and everything in between. Plus, we work with all makes and models, not just Nissan vehicles.
We know life is busy, but your car deserves a little TLC after all it’s been through. Whether you drive a family-friendly SUV or a sporty sedan, we’re here to help it perform its best through every season.
From oil changes to brake service and beyond, Hicks Family Nissan is your one-stop shop for winter car care. Let’s make 2025 the year your car feels as good as new. Ready to get started? Visit Hicks Family Nissan at 3002 IH I-69 Access Road, Robstown, TX 78380, or schedule your service appointment online now.
