Maintenance Monday: How Seasonal Changes Affect Your Vehicle and What to Do About It

An uncommon snowy landscape blankets the historic courthouse and nearby streets in downtown Wilmington, NC, during the surprising 2025 snowfall.

Living in Wilmington, North Carolina, means experiencing a diverse range of weather conditions—from hot, humid summers to mild winters with occasional cold snaps. These seasonal changes can significantly impact your vehicle's performance and longevity. Understanding these effects and taking proactive measures can keep your car running smoothly year-round.

Summer Heat: The Impact on Your Vehicle

1. Tire Pressure Fluctuations

High temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to over-inflation. This increases the risk of blowouts, especially during long drives on hot pavement.

Recommendation: Regularly check your tire pressure, especially before long trips, to ensure they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels.

2. Battery Strain

Heat accelerates the chemical reactions inside your car battery, which can lead to overcharging and reduced battery life.

Recommendation: Have your battery tested at the start of summer and keep the terminals clean and free of corrosion.

3. Overheating Engine

Elevated temperatures can strain your vehicle's cooling system, increasing the risk of engine overheating.

Recommendation: Ensure your coolant levels are adequate and consider flushing the cooling system as per your vehicle manufacturer's guidelines.

Heat Advisory issued for Wilmington, NC. Heat index values reaching 105°F.

Winter Cold: Challenges for Your Vehicle

1. Tire Traction

While Wilmington doesn't often see snow, temperatures can drop, affecting tire rubber flexibility and traction.

Recommendation: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread depth and consider all-season tires suitable for mild winter conditions.

2. Battery Performance

Cold weather can reduce a battery's cranking power, making it harder to start your engine.

Recommendation: Have your battery inspected before winter and replace it if it's nearing the end of its lifespan.

3. Fluids Thickening

Low temperatures can cause engine oil and other fluids to thicken, reducing their effectiveness.

Recommendation: Use oil with the appropriate viscosity for winter months, as recommended by your vehicle's manufacturer.

A serene snowy morning blankets the streets of downtown Wilmington, NC, highlighting the quiet charm of the historic area.

Rainy Seasons: Ensuring Safety

1. Reduced Visibility

Heavy rains can impair visibility, increasing the risk of accidents.

Recommendation: Replace windshield wipers annually and ensure your defroster and heater are functioning correctly.

2. Hydroplaning Risks

Wet roads can lead to hydroplaning, where tires lose contact with the road surface.

Recommendation: Maintain proper tire pressure and tread depth to enhance traction on wet surfaces.

Severe flooding engulfing streets in Carolina Beach, NC.

General Maintenance Tips for Wilmington Drivers

• Regular Inspections: Have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic at least twice a year to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.

• Fluid Checks: Regularly check and top off essential fluids, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.

• Brake Maintenance: Ensure your brakes are in optimal condition, as both excessive heat and moisture can affect braking performance.

  
  

By staying proactive and adapting your vehicle maintenance routine to Wilmington's seasonal changes, you can ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience throughout the year.