Spring (March–May)
- Replace cabin air filter (pollen season)
- Flush & refill coolant if due
- Check air conditioning performance
- Wash the undercarriage to remove winter salt
Summer (June–August)
- Test battery (heat kills batteries faster than cold)
- Rotate and balance tires
- Inspect the serpentine belt for cracks
- Verify cooling system (radiator, thermostat, hoses)
- Wax paint to protect from UV damage
Fall (September–November)
- Switch to winter wiper blades and washer fluid
- Test heater & defroster
- Check the battery again (cold weather is coming)
- Inspect brakes and replace pads if under 4 mm
- Align wheels if you hit potholes over the summer
Winter (December–February)
- Install winter tires (or all-season with 3PMSF symbol)
- Carry emergency kit: blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, sand/cat litter
- Keep the fuel tank at least half full to prevent condensation
- Check antifreeze concentration
- Clean battery terminals more often (road salt)
Bonus quarterly habit: Every three months, drive the car on the highway for 20–30 minutes at normal operating temperature. This burns off moisture in the oil and exercises all systems.