Seasonal Car Maintenance in Watertown, WI

FALL & WINTER

As temperatures drop, make sure your car is ready to handle any of the elements Mother Nature may throw your way. Mechanical failure is an inconvenience anytime it occurs - but can be deadly in winter, which is why we recommend the following preventative maintenance for the fall and winter in Wisconsin.

TIRES

When temperatures drop, it becomes even more important to conduct tire pressure checks. For your tires to perform on icy or snow-covered roads, they must be properly inflated. You may consider winter tires, which are made of a softer compound and are more aggressively patterned. This design makes them more pliable at lower temperatures.

HEATER / DEFROSTER

The heater and defroster must be in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. If you have any issues, now is the time to get this looked at by Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown. Stay warm and see out of your windshield.

BATTERY

Batteries typically last 3-5 years, and wintertime failures are common due to increase cold-starting electrical loads. The best way to identify a weak batter is with professional test equipment. Routine care can help make your battery last longer.

LIGHTS

Winter has less sunlight so your headlights will be on much more often. Inspect all lights and replace and burned out bulbs.

WIPER BLADES

Cold temps are hard on rubber components and when salt comes into the mix, it deteriorates even faster. Make sure you check the wiper fluid, too! Start winter with a fresh set and feel confident that you'll be able to take on the salty slush.

CAR EMERGENCY GEAR

Gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, and a flashlight. Also, keep snacks and water just in case.

SPRING

Time for some post-winter clean up in the. Your car takes everything winter hands it torrential downpours, freezing rain, and even mountains of snow. So, it makes sense to get it ready for warmer weather. Spring is the perfect time to bring your car in for a full inspection to identify any minor problems before they get worse.

TIRES

Make sure you change from your snow or winter tires to regular all season. This is a perfect time to rotate your tires to extend the life of the set.

WIPER BLADES

Cold temps are hard on rubber components and when salt comes into the mix, it deteriorates even faster. Make sure you check the wiper fluid, too!

EXAMINE YOUR BRAKES

Listen for brake noises such as grinding, chatter, or squeals. Even if you don't hear anything, it always helps to have a Mopar certified technician to determine the wear on the pads or drums. We get used to worn down brakes without noticing.

CHECK ALL FLUIDS

Top off as necessary. Winter driving conditions require your engine to work harder and condensation can cause moisture buildup in the engine and creates wear. Start fresh in the Spring!

SUMMER

Summer's high temperatures can take a toll on everyone - and everything, including your car. Extreme heat can push a car past its limits, and that can lead to some drivers finding themselves stranded at the roadside. The following tips can help you avoid becoming one of those drivers.

AIR CONDITIONING

You probably want your a/c to blow cold so if it's not, you'll want this examined at our Watertown auto service department.

COOLING SYSTEM

Would you believe the most common cause of summer breakdowns is overheating? The cooling system should be flushed and refilled with factory approved coolant. The coolant level and condition should be checked at every oil change. Remember - never remove the radiator cap until the engine has cooled.

OIL

The hot weather can be hard on your oil and engine in addition to the extra summer miles you'll be driving. Make sure you're getting your regular interval scheduled oil changes.

BRAKES

Always be inspecting your brakes and feel for any pulsations, grabbing, noises, or increased stopping distances. If you notice anything, make sure you schedule an appointment at Kayser Chrysler Center of Watertown to have our technicians take a look at your brakes.