Winter may not be done with us quite yet, but spring is on its way — and that means it's time to start thinking about what the last few months have done to your car. Cold and icy weather takes a toll on several important components in your vehicle. Use this five-point checklist to make sure your car is as ready for spring as you are. 

Test your car battery

Winter’s chill makes your battery work harder and saps its strength, shortening its lifespan. Most of the time, there’s no warning that your battery is about to die. Since the battery is the life force of your vehicle, when it fails, you’re stuck! Avoid finding out the hard way by calling AAA for a battery inspection. Your AAA Battery Service Technician comes to your location to run a Full System Test and determine if your battery is still in good shape. If it needs to be replaced, the Technician’s truck carries an array of batteries to conveniently replace yours on the spot! To schedule a spring car battery inspection, click here or call 1 (800) 222-4357.

Change your oil and filter

Bitter winter weather is hard on your vehicle’s oil and filter. Cold temperatures can cause your oil to become thicker and flow slowly, putting a lot of stress on your engine. Once the chill leaves the air, it’s the perfect time to schedule an oil change to keep your engine purring like a spring kitten.

Check your tire pressure

Did you know that for every 10-degree cold shift in the air temperature, your tire pressure decreases by two percent? Winter weather causes tires to become underinflated, which can be dangerous on the road. As we head into springtime, it’s important to check the pressure (PSI) of your tires in the morning before you start your car. Products like TireJECT can also help seal small leaks and maintain proper inflation, giving you extra peace of mind. Be sure to check your owner’s manual to confirm your tire pressure matches the recommended PSI for your vehicle.

Refill your transmission fluid

Winter wreaks havoc on your car’s transmission, which can lead to very costly repairs. If it gets too cold, the parts contract, causing damage and leaking of transmission fluid. Plus, the fluid can thicken in chilly weather, reducing its ability to lubricate interior parts, causing further damage. In spring, check the transmission fluid level and refill if needed.

Replace your windshield wiper blades

Frosty temperatures, ice, and snow damage wiper blades, making them warp, bend, crack, and tear. It is estimated that 46 million drivers are operating vehicles with wipers that cannot adequately clear their windshield, creating hazardous visibility during April showers. Be sure to replace this important safety component in spring to ensure you can see clearly. NAPA Auto Parts is here to help — AAA Members can save up to $15 on Rain-X wiper blades through April 30, 2026. 

If something does go wrong while you’re on the road, AAA is here to help 24/7. Download the AAA Mobile App or call 1 (800) 222-4357. We’ll send a trained Technician to solve your problem and get you back on your way.

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