Weather & Vehicle Preparation

Subaru vehicles driving in warm, moderate, and cold environments

How to prep your Subaru in different climates.

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.

Dealership Info

Phone Numbers:Sales Hours:
  • Mon - Thu9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Fri - Sat9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sun10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Service Hours:
  • Mon - Fri7:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sat7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • SunClosed
Subaru Outback in White driving in a warm environment.

Warm Climate Preparation

Warm Climate Preparation

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
  • Check all fluid levels
  • Consider summer tires over all-season tires
  • Check the wipers and exterior lights
  • Test the battery
  • Check the brake pads and components
  • Review the A/C system
  • Inspect the engine air and cabin air filters
  • Check the oil level

Prepping for Summer

Subaru driving in a moderate environment.

Moderate Climate Preparation

Moderate Climate Preparation

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
  • Test the battery
  • Consider all-season tires
  • Check the wipers and exterior lights
  • Check the oil level
  • Check the components of the suspension system
  • Check all fluid levels
  • Check the wheel alignment
  • Inspect the heating, cooling and defroster system
  • Check the brake pads and components

Prepping for Spring

Prepping for Fall

Subaru Crosstrek in blue in a cold environment.

Cold Climate Preparation

Cold Climate Preparation

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
  • Check the condition of wiper blades and exterior lights
  • Adjust tire pressure (cold temperatures decrease tire pressure)
  • Consider winter wiper blades
  • Check tire tread depth
  • Test the battery
  • Check the oil level
  • Check the brake pads and components
  • Check all fluid levels
  • Check the heating and defroster systems
  • Make sure windshield washer fluid is suitable for freezing temps

Prepping for Winter

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Quirk Works Subaru 42.23327653676794, -70.97658245380863.