The year is slowly coming to an end again, and it is time to do a rewind to see how much you have cared for your car and also to make a plan for the future. Winter is on its way with all its hardships and low temperatures that will be very hard on engines, tires, batteries, and other important systems. Regular maintenance will be the only prevention against unpleasant breakdowns that might happen during the holiday season-the happiest time of the year.
We at HCS Auto Repair in Rogers, we have been providing safety to the Northwest Arkansas drivers since 1988. Our ASE-certified mechanics are the ones who witness daily how the preventative maintenance leads to fewer holiday roadside accidents. By making us your partner for your end-of-the-year checkup, you are securing safety, dependability, and a worry-free experience for the next winter months.
Oil Change History Review
Oil changes can be considered the most vital service for the engine’s life. The clean oil allows moving parts to slide over each other with less resistance and also hinders the formation of rust that cold weather promotes. In case the date of your last oil change has slipped your mind, then it is surely time for you to book an appointment for that.
The majority of vehicles require an oil change after a mileage of 3,000-5,000 miles, but this depends on the vehicle’s age, driving conditions, conventional or synthetic oil usage, etc. Our mechanics not only check the oil level but also the oil condition-dark, dirty oil loses its protective properties even if there is enough volume.
There have been instances when we have seen drivers who come with their engines already showing signs of wear and tear because they ignored regular oil changes. Winter typically causes cold starts that put an extra strain on engine parts when everything has been cold and stiff; the new oil is the one that gives the vital lubrication in this whitening phase.
Don’t Forget Tire Rotation and Inspection
Tires are the only contact point between the car and the road, and their condition has a direct relationship with the safety, a factor that becomes very critical in wet or snowy conditions. To some extent, tire rotation is like a luxurious spa treatment that evens out the wear of your tires through the removal of the wear that would occur mainly in one position.
If it has been 5,000-7,000 miles since your last rotation, this is definitely the right time. While doing the tire rotation, we also do a thorough inspection that covers:
- Tread depth measurement (we check against manufacturer minimums)
- Sidewall condition check for cracks or bulges
- Air pressure adjustment to factory specifications
An overinflated tire will only have its center part of the tread in contact with the ground, while the sides will be raised, which means that the tire will have less traction when the road is wet and slippery. We will inflate the tires to their proper levels based on the load they will be carrying and the ambient temperature they will be subjected to.
From our experience, we think that most drivers do not check their tires until they hear a loud noise, which is a late moment to discover that they have a flat tire. It’s always great to avoid tire blowouts instead of interpreting them as a problem!
Check Your Brakes for Safety
The brake system in your car remains the most vital safety feature. Noises like squeaking or grinding, as well as longer stopping distances, should all be investigated immediately. In the course of a complete brake inspection, we assess:
- Pad thickness (most pads need replacement when they reach 3-4 mm remaining)
- Rotor condition for warping or grooving
- Brake fluid level and contamination status
- Caliper operation and wear patterns
We’ve seen cases where ignoring minor brake issues leads to complete system failure. Replacing just the pads today costs far less than replacing calipers, rotors, and hoses tomorrow-especially when caught during routine maintenance.
Cold weather can affect braking performance even with new components. We’ll ensure your system is properly maintained for winter driving conditions that require more responsive stopping power on potentially icy roads.
Test Your Battery Health
Car batteries lose about 60% of their starting power when temperatures drop below freezing. If your battery is over three years old, or if you’ve noticed slow cranking during cold mornings, now is the perfect time for a professional test.
Our diagnostic equipment performs:
- Load testing to verify cranking amps
- State-of-charge measurement
- Visual inspection of terminals and cables
The corrosion at the connections will be checked, which could further prevent the current flow during the time it is needed. A depleted battery will not just immobilize you, but it will also impose extra strain on your starter motor, alternator, and electrical system, resulting in their quicker wear and tear.
Most drivers are unaware that their batteries are aging, and they only find out when they run out of battery power when it is freezing outside. Preventative testing done now can save you from a costly jump-start or battery replacement during the holiday season.
Top Off and Check All Fluid Levels
Your vehicle runs on more than just oil and coolant. Each fluid plays a critical role:
- Coolant: Prevents freezing and overheating (we recommend a 50/50 mix for our region’s climate)
- Brake fluid: The Hydraulic system requires a moisture-free fluid that absorbs water over time
- Transmission fluid: Lubricates gears during cold starts when viscosity increases
- Windshield washer fluid: Winter blend prevents freezing down to -40°F
We’ll check all fluid levels and colors. Dark, dirty fluids may need replacement even if they’re not completely empty.
With the onset of winter, fluid changes become very important since most fluids lose their effectiveness in cold temperatures. New coolant with the right amount of antifreeze will ensure that your engine does not freeze when the temperature drops below 32°F, which is quite common in our area during January and February.
Schedule Overdue Maintenance Before the Year Ends
Holidays are overhead; they bring along with them travel plans, family reunions, and a lot of distractions. Don’t let the rush of the festive season make you miss out on the critical maintenance deadlines.
We can look at your owner’s manual or car service history to spot any overdue services-be it timing belt replacement, differential fluid change, or suspension inspection. Doing these things now means:
- No unexpected repairs during holiday trips
- Peace of mind knowing your vehicle is winter-ready
- Potentially higher resale value if you decide to sell in 2025
Our technicians will walk through every recommendation so you understand exactly what work is needed and why.
Get Ready for a Trouble-Free Start to the New Year
Regularly done maintenance work makes a car winter-safe, dependable, and running at full efficiency. Oil changing, tire rotating, brake testing, battery health checking, and fluid level testing are some of the most critical operations that should be performed to get ready for the new year. If you take your vehicle to us at HCS Auto Repair in Rogers, our certified mechanics, equipped with the latest diagnostic tools, will find any potential problems quickly than usual. We practice open communication-clarifying what we discover without resorting to difficult technical terms.
Our origin dates back to 1988, when we started being part of the Arkansas community, simply because we treat every customer as if they were family. By making a booking with us for a year-end vehicle inspection, not only will you be getting an oil change or tire rotation, but you will also be contributing to your safety and mental comfort during the next few months.
Do not postpone until you hear odd sounds or see warning lights to take care of your maintenance needs. Get ahead now by booking a full inspection before winter completely sets in.
Contact us at (479) 329-1478 today to secure your slot. Rely on our skilled team to make your vehicle ready for any new year challenges. It will be our pleasure to assist you and keep you safely on the road during the holidays and in the future.
FAQs
What should I check on my car before the end of the year?
Before the year ends, check critical safety and reliability items such as brakes, tires (tread depth and pressure), battery health, engine oil, coolant, transmission fluid, belts, hoses, and windshield wipers. A year-end inspection also helps identify issues caused by seasonal temperature changes and prevents unexpected breakdowns in winter or early spring.
What car maintenance should be done every year no matter how much you drive?
Annual maintenance should include an oil and filter change, brake inspection, tire rotation, battery test, fluid level check, air and cabin filter replacement, and a full vehicle inspection. Even low-mileage vehicles experience wear from time, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
Do I need to get my car inspected every year if there are no warning lights?
Yes. Many mechanical issues don’t trigger dashboard warning lights until they become serious. Annual inspections can uncover hidden problems like brake wear, suspension issues, fluid leaks, or aging rubber components—saving you from costly repairs later.
What should I check on a car that hasn’t been driven in a year?
For a vehicle that’s been sitting, check the battery, tires (for dry rot and flat spots), fuel condition, engine oil, coolant, brakes, belts, hoses, and rodents damage under the hood. It’s highly recommended to have a professional inspection before putting the car back on the road.
Is a year-end car checkup worth it if I plan to sell my vehicle?
Absolutely. A year-end checkup can increase resale value by documenting proper maintenance and addressing small issues before they become red flags for buyers. A well-maintained vehicle also sells faster and with fewer negotiations.
Can cold weather cause car problems that weren’t there before?
Yes. Cold temperatures can weaken batteries, thicken engine oil, reduce tire pressure, and expose failing components. A year-end inspection helps prepare your vehicle for winter stress and prevents cold-weather breakdowns.
How long does a year-end vehicle inspection usually take?
Most comprehensive inspections take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the vehicle’s condition. If repairs are needed, your technician can prioritize what should be fixed immediately versus what can wait into the new year.
When is the best time to schedule a year-end vehicle checkup?
The best time is before the holiday travel season or before extreme winter temperatures arrive. Scheduling early helps avoid long wait times and ensures your vehicle is safe and reliable heading into the new year.