How to prep your Subaru in different climates.
We can’t control Mother Nature, but we can control how prepared your Subaru is for her. Since driving conditions will vary throughout the year based on the region you live in, and the seasonal changes associated with it, we’ve categorized three general types of climates – warm, moderate and cold – and list the ways in which you can prepare your Subaru for each.
Warm Climate Preparation
Warmer climates usually produce mild to considerably warm temperatures all year long with rainfall occurring more often in the winter season. Areas near mountains, deserts and the coast can bring about different weather patterns and temperatures, but generally here are some common check-ups recommended from season to season if you live in a warm climate:
- Inspect the tires – pressure, tread depth and condition
- Consider summer tires over all-season tires
- Test the battery
- Review the A/C system
- Check the oil level
- Check all fluid levels
- Check the wipers and exterior lights
- Check the brake pads and components
- Inspect the engine air and cabin air filters
Prepping for Summer
Moderate Climate Preparation
Moderate climates tend to have a mix between warm and cold climate zones with light snowfall in the winter and mild to warm summers with occasional rainfall. Some common seasonal vehicle preparations for a moderate climate are as follows:
- Inspect the tires – pressure, tread depth and condition
- Consider all-season tires
- Check the oil level
- Check all fluid levels
- Inspect the heating, cooling and defroster system
- Test the battery
- Check the wipers and exterior lights
- Check the components of the suspension system
- Check the wheel alignment
- Check the brake pads and components
Prepping for Spring
Prepping for Fall
Cold Climate Preparation
Colder climates usually dip below freezing when winter arrives and receive light to heavy snowfall for extended periods of time. The summer season brings similar conditions to that of warmer and moderate climates with a fair share of rainfall. Review the warmer climate section when summer arrives for suggested check-ups. As for winter, if you live in or spend a good amount of time in a colder climate, here are some common things to prepare your Subaru during the winter season:
- Consider purchasing/switching to winter tires
- Adjust tire pressure (cold temperatures decrease tire pressure)
- Check tire tread depth
- Check the oil level
- Check all fluid levels
- Make sure windshield washer fluid is suitable for freezing temps
- Check the condition of wiper blades and exterior lights
- Consider winter wiper blades
- Test the battery
- Check the brake pads and components
- Check the heating and defroster systems
