Winter driving can be tough on your car, especially after a holiday road trip. Use this winter car maintenance checklist to help keep your vehicle running smoothly.
The winter months can be tough on your car, especially after holiday road trips, endless traffic, and unpredictable roads. Whether you’re navigating Corpus Christi streets or venturing out on longer drives, staying ahead on maintenance is the key to helping your car run like new.
From colder weather affecting your battery to potential road salt damage, there’s a lot to think about during this time of year. But don’t worry – we’ve got you covered with this winter car maintenance checklist that’s as easy as it is essential.
If the holidays had you spending more time behind the wheel than you’d planned, your vehicle might need a little TLC to bounce back. Check out these tips to stay on top of car maintenance for winter and beyond:
Long road trips and stop-and-go traffic can push your engine to its limits. Oil plays a vital role in keeping everything cool, clean, and running smoothly, so don’t let old oil slow you down. If you’ve been driving more than usual, it’s probably time for an oil change – your engine will thank you.
Holiday traffic takes its toll on your brakes. All that stop-and-go driving can wear down brake pads faster than you’d think, and ignoring squeaks, vibrations, or sluggish stopping power can lead to bigger problems down the line. A brake inspection will give you peace of mind and keep you on the road.
Your tires have one of the most important jobs on your car – keeping you connected to the road. Rotating and balancing your tires helps them wear evenly, which means better traction and a smoother ride. Also, take a quick look for any cuts, punctures, or low tread. Pro tip: Check for nails or debris you might have picked up along the way (it happens more than you think).
Curious if road salt damages cars? The short answer: yes! While salt makes icy roads safer, it can corrode the undercarriage of your vehicle and even eat away at your paint. Whether you traveled somewhere snowy or just hit damp, dirty roads, a thorough wash (including the underside of your car) is essential to help stop corrosion in its tracks.
Winter can make your battery work harder to deliver the same performance. Noticed your car hesitating to start? Or maybe your hybrid’s range isn’t what it used to be? This is the time to take action. Wondering how to protect your car battery in winter? Here’s the trick: drive often! Regular driving helps keep your battery charged and ready to perform. If it still struggles, let us test it for you.
Rough roads, potholes, curbs, or even just loading up your car with extra holiday cargo can throw off your alignment or wear down your suspension. If your car feels like it’s pulling to one side or your ride isn’t as smooth as usual, it’s time for an inspection. Fixing your alignment can make a world of difference in how your car handles.
Even with regular maintenance, some issues can sneak up after a big road trip. Watch out for:
If your car is showing any of these symptoms, don’t wait – our certified technicians are here to help.
At Ed Hicks Nissan, we know how important it is to keep your car running its best – especially after a busy holiday season. Our expert team is here to handle all your winter maintenance needs, from oil changes and brake repairs to tire rotations, battery tests, and more.
And guess what? We don’t just work on Nissan vehicles! No matter what make or model you drive, we’ll make sure it’s ready for whatever lies ahead. Whether you need routine maintenance or a quick checkup, the Ed Hicks Nissan Service Center is here to make car care easy.
Visit us at 3000 S Padre Island Drive, Corpus Christi, TX 78415, or schedule your service appointment online today. Let’s keep you and your car ready for every adventure!
