End of Winter Car Maintenance Checklist

Winter in Saskatchewan is no joke. Your vehicle has taken you through the icy roads and salt-covered highways. Now that spring is on the horizon, it’s time to show your car some love. Unfortunately, a quick car wash won’t stop the erosion from road salt. Follow this checklist to ensure it’s ready for warmer days, and trust Key Auto Group in Yorkton to handle the hard work for your vehicle.
Read more:
Why a Battery Check is Crucial
The Importance of Coolant in Winter
Top 5 Car Maintenance Tips for End of Winter
We know winters leave their mark. From corroded batteries to salt-caked undercarriages, it can lead to costly repairs if you choose to ignore them. At Key Auto Group in Yorkton, our simple, five-step checklist ensures your car transitions smoothly into spring.
1. Check the Battery
Cold weather can strain your car battery, reducing its lifespan. You should test it for charge strength and check for corrosion on the terminals. If it’s older than 3 to 5 years or hard to start this winter, let Key Auto Group’s technicians inspect it.
2. Swap Out Winter Tires
Winter tires excel in cold weather but wear quickly on warm pavement. Once temperatures consistently hit 7°C, you should switch to all-season tires for better grip. Don’t forget to inspect winter tires for tread depth before storing them properly. At Key Auto, we offer tire mounting and balancing service to keep your tires in best condition. Book a winter tires swap service to save them for next year’s snow.
3. Check All Fluids
Winter’s harsh conditions in Saskatchewan can take a toll on your vehicle’s essential fluids. Here’s what to inspect:
- Engine Oil
- Coolant
- Brake Fluid
- Power Steering Fluid
- Windshield Washer Fluid
If you’re unsure about how to check these fluids, we’re here to help. Our technicians handle fluid flushes, spot leaks and replace fluids with OEM-grade products.
4. Check Air/Cabin filters
Winter’s sand and road grit don’t just stick to your car’s exterior; they sneak into your engine air system, too. A clogged engine air filter restricts airflow, and a dirty cabin air filter lets dust and musty odors into your vehicle. Check both filters by holding them up to the light, and replace them if you can’t see through them or if they’re dirty. At Key Auto Group, we install genuine OEM filters for better air flow, and our technicians replace both filters quickly and efficiently.
5. Wash Your Car
Don’t forget to wash your car thoroughly after performing the maintenance above. Washing off the road salt and grime helps prevent further erosion or rust on your car.
Book a Service at Key Auto Group
At Key Auto Group in Yorkton, we’ve spent decades prepping Sask drivers for spring’s mood swings. You’ve tackled the checklist; now let us handle the rest. Book a service appointment today!