Your Subaru’s Winter Maintenance Checklist: A Simple Guide

Winter driving presents unique challenges. Cold temperatures, snow, ice, and slush can take a toll on your vehicle, making it essential to prepare your Subaru for the harsh conditions ahead. Ensuring that your Subaru is properly maintained and ready for winter can help avoid breakdowns, improve safety, and enhance your driving experience during the season. In this simple guide, we’ll cover the key maintenance tasks you should perform to keep your Subaru running smoothly during the colder months.

1. Check Your Tires

Tires are one of the most critical components of your Subaru when it comes to winter driving. The winter months often bring slick, icy, and snowy roads, and having the right tires is essential for safety and control.

• Winter Tires: If you live in an area where temperatures frequently drop below 45°F (7°C), you should consider switching to winter tires. Winter tires are designed with specialized rubber compounds and tread patterns to provide superior traction in cold weather and on snow or ice. They are a must-have for maintaining control on slippery roads.
• Tire Pressure: Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop, which can affect your vehicle’s handling and increase tire wear. Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. You can find this information in your Subaru’s owner’s manual or on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.
• Tire Tread: Ensure your tires have adequate tread depth. The more tread, the better your tires can grip the road. If your tires have worn down, consider replacing them before winter weather strikes.

2. Inspect the Battery

Cold weather can drain your car battery, especially if it’s older. Before winter sets in, make sure to check the condition of your Subaru’s battery to avoid unexpected breakdowns.

• Battery Age: Car batteries typically last 3-5 years. If your battery is nearing the end of its lifespan, consider replacing it before winter. Cold weather can make an old battery even more unreliable.
• Battery Terminals: Inspect the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion. Corroded battery terminals can prevent your vehicle from starting properly. If you notice corrosion, clean the terminals using a mixture of baking soda and water.
• Test the Battery: If you’re unsure about the health of your battery, have it tested by a professional mechanic to ensure it’s in good condition.

3. Replace Wiper Blades and Check Wiper Fluid

Clear visibility is essential for safe winter driving. Winter weather often includes snow, sleet, and slush, all of which can obstruct your view. Make sure your windshield wipers and wiper fluid are ready for whatever the season throws your way.

• Wiper Blades: Check the condition of your wiper blades. If they are cracked, worn, or leaving streaks on the windshield, replace them with new ones. Consider switching to winter-specific wiper blades, which are designed to handle heavy snow and ice buildup.
• Wiper Fluid: Ensure your windshield wiper fluid reservoir is full and that you’re using a winter-grade fluid. Winter wiper fluid is formulated to prevent freezing, which is especially important in freezing temperatures.
• De-Icing Your Wipers: If snow or ice accumulates on your wiper blades, gently lift them from the windshield and clear the buildup to avoid damaging the wiper system.

4. Check Fluids and Oil

Cold temperatures can cause fluids in your Subaru to thicken, which can affect performance. It’s important to check and replace essential fluids to ensure your vehicle runs smoothly throughout the winter.

• Engine Oil: The viscosity of your engine oil can change in cold weather, and thicker oil can make it harder for the engine to turn over. Check the oil level and consider switching to a thinner, winter-grade oil if necessary. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the right type of oil for your Subaru.
• Antifreeze/Coolant: Antifreeze helps regulate engine temperature and prevents the coolant from freezing in cold temperatures. Check the antifreeze levels in your Subaru and top them off if necessary. Be sure to use the correct mix of antifreeze and water (usually 50/50), and replace the coolant if it’s been more than two years since your last change.
• Transmission Fluid: Check the transmission fluid level and ensure that it’s clean. In cold temperatures, dirty or low fluid can cause shifting problems.
• Power Steering Fluid: Check the power steering fluid to ensure it’s at the right level. Cold weather can thicken power steering fluid, making it harder to steer your Subaru, so keep an eye on this fluid level as well.

5. Inspect the Brakes

Your brakes are essential to your safety, especially during the winter months when roads may be slippery. Have your Subaru’s brakes inspected to ensure that they are in top condition before winter driving.

• Brake Pads and Rotors: Have a professional mechanic inspect your brake pads and rotors for wear. Worn brake pads can reduce your braking ability, which is particularly dangerous on icy or snow-covered roads.
• Brake Fluid: Check your brake fluid level to ensure it’s within the recommended range. Low brake fluid can cause poor brake performance. If necessary, top off or replace the brake fluid.
• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Subaru vehicles are equipped with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) for better control on slippery roads. Ensure that the ABS system is functioning properly. If the ABS light is illuminated on your dashboard, have it checked right away.

6. Examine the Exhaust System

The exhaust system plays a critical role in the proper functioning of your Subaru, especially during the winter months when you might drive in cold, damp conditions. Any issues with your exhaust system should be addressed immediately.

• Inspect for Leaks: Look for signs of corrosion or leaks in your exhaust pipes, mufflers, and catalytic converter. In cold weather, leaks in the exhaust system can lead to dangerous fumes entering the cabin.
• Check the Exhaust Heat Shield: Ensure the exhaust heat shield is secure and intact. A loose or damaged heat shield can create rattling noises and may even cause damage to other components under your Subaru.

7. Clean and Protect the Exterior

Winter driving can be tough on your Subaru’s exterior, with road salt, ice, and snow all posing potential hazards. Protect your vehicle’s paint and finish by regularly cleaning it and applying protective coatings.

• Wash the Exterior: Regularly wash your Subaru to remove road salt, dirt, and grime that can cause rusting over time. Pay special attention to the undercarriage, where salt and moisture can accumulate.
• Wax the Paint: Applying a coat of wax before winter begins can help protect the paint from the harsh elements, making it easier to clean off snow, ice, and road salt.
• Protect the Undercarriage: In areas where road salt is commonly used, consider getting your Subaru’s undercarriage professionally cleaned to prevent rust buildup. You can also apply a rust-resistant coating to protect your vehicle’s undercarriage from salt and moisture.

8. Check Your Lights

Shorter days and longer nights mean you’ll be using your headlights more often during the winter. Make sure all your lights are working properly to ensure you can see the road and be seen by other drivers.

• Headlights and Taillights: Check all exterior lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any burned-out bulbs promptly.
• Fog Lights: If your Subaru is equipped with fog lights, test them to ensure they are functional. Fog lights can improve visibility in foggy, snowy, or rainy conditions.
• Headlight Alignment: Ensure your headlights are properly aligned. Misaligned headlights can reduce visibility and create glare for other drivers. If necessary, have them adjusted at your local Subaru dealership.

9. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Even with proper winter maintenance, it’s always wise to be prepared for unexpected situations. Packing an emergency kit can help you stay safe if you encounter a problem on the road.

• Essential Items: Include items such as jumper cables, a flashlight, extra batteries, a blanket, first-aid supplies, a snow shovel, ice scraper, road salt or sand, and a bottle of water.
• Roadside Assistance: Consider adding a portable battery charger or jump starter to your kit, as well as a phone charger. Having access to these tools can be invaluable if you’re stranded in the winter months.

10. Schedule a Winter Maintenance Check

If you’re unsure about performing these tasks yourself, schedule a winter maintenance check with your local Subaru service center. A certified Subaru technician can inspect your vehicle, perform any necessary repairs or replacements, and ensure your Subaru is ready to handle winter’s challenges.

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Conclusion: Winterize Your Subaru for Safe Travel

By taking the time to prepare your Subaru for winter, you can ensure that your vehicle is equipped to handle the challenges that come with the season. From checking your tires and battery to inspecting essential fluids and ensuring your brakes are in top condition, regular winter maintenance will keep your Subaru running smoothly and safely. Don’t wait until the first snowflake falls – get your Subaru winter-ready today and enjoy peace of mind during your holiday travels!

Visit Us Today!

Stevens Creek Subaru

3225 Stevens Creek Blvd
Santa Clara, CA 95117

https://www.stevenscreeksubaru.com

(408) 984-2001

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