12 Days of Car Care: A Holiday Countdown for Your Vehicle’s Health

December 9, 2025

Day 1: Battery Inspection

As temperatures drop, your battery’s performance decreases. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs like slow cranking or dim
headlights, schedule a test. Cold weather is one of the top causes of battery failure. Visit your nearest Rad Air location for a professional battery test
or replacement to prevent winter breakdowns.

Day 2: Tire Pressure and Tread Depth Check

Closeup of checking tire tread wear depth of old tire using a quarter coin Concept of automobile safety maintenance and repair
Tire pressure can drop significantly in cold weather, often one to two PSI for every 10 degrees. Underinflated tires reduce fuel efficiency and compromise
traction on ice or snow. Ensure your tread depth is at least 5/32 of an inch for safe handling. Consider
winter tires for enhanced grip.

Day 3: Heating and Defroster System Test

Functional cabin heat and clear windows are essential in winter. If your defroster isn’t clearing quickly or your heater isn’t producing warm air, your HVAC
system may need service. Heating issues often stem from coolant problems or faulty blower motors—both of which our team can inspect and repair.

Day 4: Wiper Blade Replacement and Washer Fluid Refill

Snow and road spray reduce visibility quickly. Wiper blades should be replaced at least twice a year. Refill washer fluid with a winter formula to prevent
freezing and improve windshield clarity.

Day 5: Coolant and Antifreeze Inspection

Coolant prevents both overheating and freezing. Check antifreeze levels and protection ratings. A coolant flush may be needed if fluid is old, contaminated,
or improperly mixed.

Day 6: Brake System Evaluation

rad air employee inspecting brakes
Stopping distances increase on snow and ice. Worn brake pads, rotors, or calipers can compromise safety. Signs of wear include squeaking, grinding, or a
soft pedal. A winter brake inspection ensures proper stopping power when you need it most.

Day 7: Exterior Lighting Function Check

Shorter days mean more nighttime driving. Ensure headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights are all working. Faulty lighting increases accident
risk in low visibility.

Day 8: Undercarriage Awareness

Road salt improves traction but can impact suspension and brake systems. After heavy snow, watch for visible undercarriage damage or rough, uneven driving.
Rad Air can inspect for winter-related wear.

Day 9: Fluid Top-Offs

Cold temperatures thicken or freeze low or dirty fluids. During winter service, request a full fluid top-off and inspection. Fresh brake, transmission, and
power steering fluids help maintain reliable performance.

Day 10: Strange Noise Diagnosis

Cold weather can intensify whining, clunking, or groaning sounds from belts, suspension, or failing components. These problems worsen quickly in winter.
Schedule diagnostics if you hear anything unusual.

Day 11: Emergency Kit Review

winter emergency automobile kit
A winter emergency kit should include jumper cables, a flashlight, gloves, ice scraper, blanket, flares, charger, snacks, and traction aids like sand or
cat litter. Rad Air can help you determine what’s best for your vehicle.

Day 12: Full Winter Vehicle Inspection

A comprehensive inspection is the best way to ensure winter readiness. Rad Air technicians assess your battery, tires, brakes, suspension, HVAC, wipers,
fluids, and more to keep your vehicle safe and reliable.

Find Holiday Car Care Near You

Rad Air Complete Car Care operates 11 convenient Northeast Ohio locations. Our technicians deliver trusted service focused on safety, education, and quality.
Search for “holiday car care tips” or “seasonal vehicle checklist near me,” and you’ll find a local Rad Air shop ready to help.

Rad Air Locations

Schedule Your Appointment

Preventive maintenance is one of
the smartest holiday investments you can make. Whether traveling or staying local, a winter check-up at Rad Air ensures reliable performance all season long.