A year with a car – this is how you take care of your car all year round

The challenges of the winter months

When January rolls around, the car has often already been through several cold days, slippery roads and dark evenings. This time of year places high demands on both the car and the driver. A common problem during the winter is frozen door locks or door trims that get stuck, something that can easily be prevented with a little silicone spray or lubricant. The battery is another sensitive point. The cold affects its capacity, and it is not uncommon for the starter motor to struggle to start after a few sub-zero nights.

This is also when the road salt does its job, both for safety and with some impact on the car. The salt keeps the roads free of ice, but at the same time attacks the car's paintwork and undercarriage. A proper winter wash from time to time, preferably with degreasing and undercarriage treatment, can make a big difference in the long run. And don't forget to top up your windshield washer fluid with enough antifreeze, visibility is crucial, especially when the road surface is dirty and the sun is low.

Spring adjustments

Spring means more than just brighter days. When the temperature rises, it's time to plan a tire change. Winter tires should be removed by April 15th, provided that road conditions allow it. Summer tires that have been tucked away all winter should then be properly checked. Not only that they have the right tread depth, but also that they have not become dry, cracked or warped.

A stone chip in the windshield is also a typical sign of spring, it may look insignificant but can quickly turn into a crack that requires replacing the entire window. Repairing a stone chip often takes only 30 minutes and is in many cases free of charge with half insurance. However, neglecting it can be both expensive and troublesome, not least if the window cracks in the middle of driving or if it leads to a remark during the inspection.

Read more: This is why you shouldn't wash your car at home.

Summer: freedom and caution

Summer is associated with vacation, travel and more time on the road. For the car, this means longer driving distances, high temperatures and, in some cases, overloading. Before the holiday, it is wise to go through the car a little more carefully. Air pressure in the tires affects both safety and fuel consumption, and the same applies to the oil level. If you are driving with a caravan or heavy luggage, both the suspension and brakes can be subjected to extra strain.

It is also during the summer that more repairs are made unnecessarily, due to overheating, running on too little oil or an AC system that is not cooling. The air in the cabin can quickly become unbearable if the cooling is not working, and in the worst case, a broken AC system can lead to consequential damage to the compressor. Therefore, it is wise to test everything well in advance before departure.

Autumn preparations

When the holidays are over and the temperature starts to drop, it's time to think ahead. Autumn means wet roads, more driving at night and eventually winter tires. Between October 1 and November 30, it's time to change, depending on road conditions. Many garages get a rush when the first frosty night hits, so booking an appointment in advance can save both money and stress.

This time of year is also a good time to check your car's lighting. Broken lights are one of the most common reasons for remarks during inspections, and can also have serious consequences in traffic. The battery, which has already had to work hard during the previous winter, may need to be checked again. If you have an older car, it may be time to consider replacing the battery before the cold weather hits in earnest.

Smart winter tips

When winter returns, it's important to be prepared. Having an ice scraper, snow brush, warm gloves and a reflective vest in your car are obvious, but also to think ahead. How often do you check that the wiper blades can still handle slush? Or that the taillights are not covered in dirt? Winter driving requires that both you and your car are in good shape.

If you have an outdoor parking space, it may also be a good idea to invest in an engine heater socket. This will both extend the life of the battery and reduce fuel consumption during cold starts.

Annual service and inspection

Regardless of the season, there are those points that recur every year. Service is one of them. For new cars, it is usually a matter of following a service plan from the manufacturer, but even older cars benefit from regular checks. Oil changes, filter cleaning, checking brakes and undercarriage are classics that can prevent expensive repairs later on.

The inspection is also a must. If you miss it, you risk a driving ban, and some insurance policies may be affected if the car is not approved. A new car should be inspected no later than 36 months after it has been put into use, the next time no later than 24 months after that, and then at least every 14 months. The smartest thing is to book the inspection well in advance, preferably in the spring or autumn when it is easier to get appointments and avoid queues.

Insurance and minor damages

Even with careful planning, things happen that are beyond your control. A collision in a parking lot, a break-in to your car or an unexpected warning light on the dashboard. That's why it's important to know what your insurance actually covers. If you only have motor liability insurance, your coverage is limited. Partial insurance often covers stone chips, towing and burglary, while full insurance also applies to vehicle damage, i.e. when the car takes a hit regardless of who is at fault.

And then of course there's the human factor. You forget to fill up, you hit a curb, or you lose your spare key. No one is perfect, but with a little practice you'll be better prepared for what might happen.

A rolling responsibility all year round

A year with a car goes by quickly, but there's more to it than you might think. By keeping up with the car's rhythm, keeping track of dates and listening for small signs, you can avoid both expensive repairs and unnecessary hassle. A car is more than just a means of transportation; it's a long-term project that requires care, planning and a little bit of finesse. And when it's working properly, it's hard to beat the freedom of just getting behind the wheel and driving.

Read more about how to prepare your car for winter.