Seasonal Car Maintenance Checklist to Keep You Road-Trip Ready All Year Long

Replace cabin air filter

Living in Albuquerque provides the perfect mix of glorious summers, cool winters, and everything in between. But these seasons also bring their own challenges for your vehicle. At Northside Auto Repair, we know that seasonal car care is key to keeping your vehicle performing at its best, no matter the time of year. To make sure you’re road-trip ready all year long, we’ve put together this seasonal maintenance checklist tailored to Albuquerque’s unique climate.

Spring and Summer Checklist: Prep for the Heat

When the Albuquerque sun starts blazing, it’s time to get your car ready for the heat and summer travels.

  1. AC System Check
    There’s nothing like a functioning air conditioner in the midst of summer. If your AC isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, we can inspect it and recharge the system to keep you cool on the road.
  2. Inspect Brakes
    Heading on a summer road trip? Make sure your brakes can handle the miles. Squealing or grinding noises are signs you may need new brake pads.
  3. Test Fluid Levels
    Summer heat can cause fluids to evaporate. From motor oil to brake, transmission, and coolant fluids, our team can ensure everything is topped up and functioning properly.
  4. Check Your Tires
    Hot pavement means your tires take extra wear. Inspect for cracks, bulges, and proper alignment before heading out on that family getaway.

Year-Round Maintenance Musts

Beyond prepping for seasonal changes, there are a few maintenance tips you should follow year-round.

  1. Battery & Alternator Health
    No matter the season, your battery and alternator always need to stay in top condition. A regular test can help avoid unexpected issues.
  2. Inspect Belts & Hoses
    Cracks or fraying in your belts and hoses can develop in extreme temperatures. Prevent a roadside breakdown by having them inspected as part of a regular maintenance check.
  3. Routine Oil Changes
    Oil changes are a critical part of keeping your engine running smoothly. Don’t skip this step during any season. At Northside Auto Repair, we provide quick, affordable oil change services that include a free vehicle inspection.
  4. Fluid Checks
    Your car contains a variety of fluids essential to its performance, and running low on any of them can cause damage. From power steering to washer fluid, our team keeps an eye on it all.

Winter Checklist: Stay Warm and Safe

Winter in Albuquerque isn’t as brutal as in some parts of the country, but freezing overnight temperatures can still take a toll on your car. Here’s how you can prep your vehicle for winter driving conditions:

  1. Check Anti-Freeze Levels
    Ensure your coolant system is in good shape to prevent your engine from freezing when temperatures drop. Our team can test your anti-freeze levels to make sure your engine is fully protected.
  2. Inspect Windshield Wipers
    Winter brings increased chances of rain, sleet, and even snow. Old or cracked wiper blades can leave streaks, making it tough to see. Replace them early in the season for clear vision during Albuquerque’s wetter months.
  3. Battery Check
    Cold weather can drain your car battery faster than usual. Our ASE-certified technicians can test your battery’s charge and replace it if needed, so you don’t get stranded on chilly mornings.
  4. Tire Pressure & Tread Inspection
    With cooler temperatures, your tire pressure can drop. Under-inflated tires can be dangerous on slick roads. We’ll ensure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread to grip the road safely.

Why Choose Northside Auto Repair?

At Northside Auto Repair, we believe preventative care is the best way to save you time, money, and stress down the road. Each seasonal service includes a free courtesy vehicle inspection to catch potential problems before they escalate. Plus, our ASE-certified mechanics and advanced diagnostic tools ensure every job is done with the highest level of expertise.

Get Road-Trip Ready Today

Whether the snow is falling or the sun is scorching, keeping your car in road-worthy condition is simple when you stay on top of seasonal maintenance. Don’t wait for a problem to slow you down.
📞 Call us today at (505) 823-2226 or visit our shop at 7601-A San Pedro NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109 to schedule your next seasonal service. First-time customers get a 10% discount!
From smooth winter commutes to exciting summer adventures, Northside Auto Repair is here to keep you safe and stress-free all year long. Drive with confidence—we’ve got your back! 🚗✨

Get Your Car Winter-Ready with Northside Auto Repair’s Holiday Service Priorities

Holiday Service Priorities

The holiday season is here! For many of us, that means road trips to visit loved ones and creating new memories. But before you pack the car with suitcases, snacks, and holiday cheer, it’s time to make sure your vehicle is ready to face winter weather. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to help you enjoy safe and stress-free travel this holiday season by focusing on four essential winter vehicle checks.

1. Tire Pressure Check – Grip Winter Roads with Confidence

Your tires are your car’s only contact with the road, so keeping them in top shape is critical. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop—about 1 PSI for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Low pressure not only leads to poor gas mileage and uneven tread wear, but it also reduces your ability to maintain grip on icy or wet roads.

Here’s what to look for:

  • Uneven tire wear
  • Low tread depth (use a quarter to check—if you can see Washington’s head, it’s time to replace your tires)
  • Low tire pressure warning light on your dashboard

If you’re unsure about your tires or need assistance, stop by Northside Auto Repair. Our team can quickly check and adjust your tire pressure, ensuring you’re road-ready.

2. Anti-freeze Check – Keep Your Engine Cool (and Warm!)

Anti-freeze, or coolant, plays a key role in protecting your engine from freezing in low temperatures while also preventing it from overheating. Winter is tough on engines, so maintaining the right coolant ratio is critical.

Symptoms of a coolant issue:

  • Engine temperature gauge reads higher or lower than normal
  • Coolant leaks (look for puddles underneath your vehicle)
  • Strange smells, like sweet or syrupy odors, from your car

Don’t risk getting stranded on a cold winter day! Bring your car to us, and we’ll perform a full anti-freeze check and replenish or flush it as needed.

3. Battery Check – Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns

Batteries lose strength as temperatures drop, which is why so many car batteries fail during the winter. Unfortunately, the cold weather also increases the demand on your battery since your heater, lights, and defroster are all working harder.

Signs of a weak battery:

  • Slow engine crank
  • Dim headlights
  • Clicking sounds when you turn the key

At Northside Auto Repair, we’ll inspect your battery, clean terminals, and even test its charge to make sure you’re not left in the cold with a dead battery.

4. Heater Check – Drive in Comfort

Few things can ruin a holiday road trip faster than the realization that your heater isn’t working. Your heating system not only keeps you cozy but also defrosts windows for safe visibility.

Signs your heater might need attention:

  • Weak or no airflow from vents
  • Air isn’t warming up
  • Strange smells or noises when the heater is on

If your heater isn’t running efficiently, our technicians can diagnose and fix the issue, whether it’s a simple filter replacement or a more complex repair.

Why Winter Maintenance Matters

Taking care of these service priorities doesn’t just give you peace of mind—it can also save you time, money, and frustration. Winter road trips can be unpredictable, but with a well-maintained vehicle, you’ll be ready for anything, from family visits to snowy adventures.

Schedule Your Holiday Service at Northside Auto Repair

Now’s the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is ready for winter weather and holiday travels. Our friendly team at Northside Auto Repair is here to provide professional, reliable service to keep you and your loved ones safe on the road.

Call us today to schedule an appointment or drop by to learn more about our winter maintenance services. Don’t wait for problems to pop up in the middle of your holiday plans—stop in and we’ll get your car ready for the season!

Safe travels, and happy holidays from the Northside Auto Repair family!

Prepare Your Vehicle for Fall: The Importance of Filter Changes

Cabin Air Filters

Before the warmth of September in New Mexico gives way to the cooler, crisp breezes of October, it’s time to start thinking about your vehicle’s maintenance needs. At Northside Auto Repair, we’re here to ensure your car is ready to embrace the fall season’s fresh air with open windows and optimal performance. One key aspect of fall maintenance is getting ahead of your vehicle’s filter changes. Let’s explore the significance of updating your cabin air filter, engine filter, and oil filter as we transition into autumn.

Clear the Air with a New Cabin Air Filter

Throughout the hot summer months, your vehicle’s cabin air filter has been working diligently to keep dust and pollen at bay. These particles can accumulate over time, leading to reduced air quality inside your car. As fall approaches, replacing your cabin air filter ensures that you and your passengers can enjoy a cleaner, fresher atmosphere free from summer’s residual allergens. This simple change enhances your comfort and health, making those scenic autumn drives all the more enjoyable.

Protect Your Engine with an Engine Filter Replacement

Your engine filter plays a crucial role in safeguarding your vehicle’s delicate internal components. Dust and exhaust particles from the summer can settle into your engine, potentially affecting its performance and longevity. By replacing the engine filter, you provide a clean start for your engine as it transitions into the cooler months. This proactive measure helps maintain optimal engine function, ensuring your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently throughout the fall and beyond.

NAPA Filters

Regular Oil and Oil Filter Changes: A Fall Maintenance Standard

Oil changes are a cornerstone of vehicle maintenance, and fall is the perfect time to ensure your engine’s lubrication system is in top condition. The oil filter is essential in trapping contaminants and preventing them from circulating through your engine. Regular oil and oil filter changes help extend your vehicle’s life and improve fuel efficiency. As temperatures drop, fresh oil and a new oil filter will keep your engine running smoothly, reducing wear and tear during the cooler months.

Embrace Proactive Car Care

Being proactive with your vehicle’s maintenance not only enhances its performance but also ensures your safety and comfort on the road. At Northside Auto Repair, we believe in taking steps today to prevent issues tomorrow. By prioritizing filter changes, you’re investing in the longevity and reliability of your vehicle, allowing you to enjoy the beauty and adventure that New Mexico’s fall season has to offer.

Schedule your fall maintenance appointment with us today, and let our expert technicians at Northside Auto Repair keep your vehicle running at its best. Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your car is prepared for whatever autumn may bring.