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.

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

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

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

Prepping your Subaru for the Changes in Seasons, Weather and Climate

Living in Colorado Springs, Fort Carson, Fountain or Monument, CO, you probably are accustomed to an array of different weather patterns and climate conditions that can prove influential on the shape of your Subaru vehicle if not careful. Whether it be the snow and ice of the winter time or the humid temps of a summer day, being thoughtful about changes in the weather can be crucial in helping you to maintain the quality of your Subaru Forester, Outback, Impreza or Legacy.

As highlighted above, there are a number of ways you can work to prepare for a new season or climate shift in advance. During the summer time and warmer conditions, you need to prepare for any negative impact the outside heat may have on your engine and its functionality. Replenishing fluids, changing your vehicle's oil and having your vehicle inspected are all strong ways of ensuring your engine is healthy for the coming months. When the weather turns frigid and you can expect to be travelling in snow, winter tires also become an important consideration to begin thinking about. This, along with your battery, heating systems and defrost configuration, can be the difference in safety and security in these inclement elements.

Staying up on the condition of your vehicle to anticipate these changes ahead of time and stay ahead of the curve as far as your Subaru is concerned can be critical. Our Subaru factory-trained technicians here in our service center are a great resource to lean on, as they hold vast levels of expertise in the complex requirements of your vehicle and can take care of any repair or servicing you need completed. They can even place orders on seasonal parts you need with the help of our parts center. Please feel free to give our service center a call ahead of the next change in season, and remain proactive in preparing for the weather by scheduling a service appointment today.