The shimmering layer of snow blanketing Fairbanks during the holidays is like a gift—the promise of celebration and time with loved ones. For many, this means long road trips to see family and friends.

METRO is here to add to the festivities of the season with the gift of trustworthy car maintenance, ensuring your vehicle is safe for the snowy roads ahead.

Keeping Your Vehicle Winter-Ready

The METRO team takes your safety seriously, especially when there’s winter snow and icy roads. As you know, Alaska’s winter is relentless, and our roads can be less than welcoming. We take the right steps to ensure that your vehicles are winter-ready, helping you avoid potential breakdowns or unnecessary winter driving complications so your holiday travels are as safe as possible.

Personalized Car Maintenance and Routine Service

Our team is committed to providing personalized service, taking the time to understand your vehicle’s specific needs and tailor your maintenance services accordingly. 

Whether it’s an oil change, brake inspection, or ensuring that your heating system actually keeps you warm, we go the extra mile to provide a thorough service, ensuring that each vehicle is ready to traverse the winter roads.

Winter Maintenance Necessities

We’re here to help make sure you don’t run into any unnecessary problems on the road with this maintenance checklist:

Tire Inspection and Rotation:

• Check tire tread depth and ensure it is sufficient for winter driving conditions.
• Switch to winter tires for improved traction in snow and icy conditions.
• Rotate tires regularly to ensure even wear.

Battery Check:

• Cold temperatures can affect your battery’s performance. Have your battery checked to ensure it’s in good condition.
• Clean any corrosion on the battery terminals.

Fluid Check and Top-Off:

• Ensure that all essential fluids are at the appropriate levels, including engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant.
• Use winter-grade windshield washer fluid to prevent it from freezing.

Brake Inspection:

• Have your brakes inspected, including brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid.
• Ensure that the braking system is in optimal condition for slippery roads.

Heating and Defrosting System:

• Check your heating system to make sure it’s working.
• Ensure that the defrosting system is functioning properly.

Lights and Wipers:

• Check and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
• Ensure that both headlights and taillights are clean and properly aligned.
• Replace windshield wiper blades and fluid are winter-grade.
• Ensure that windshield washer nozzles are clear.

Exhaust System Inspection:

• Inspect the exhaust system for leaks and clogs, as snow buildup can block the tailpipe.

Antifreeze/Coolant Strength:

• Check the level and strength of your antifreeze/coolant (and make sure it is winter grade) to ensure it can withstand low temperatures without freezing.

Emergency Kit:

• Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit containing items such as a blanket, flashlight, extra clothing, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit.
• Read our Ultimate Guide to Outfitting Your Winter Roadside Emergency Kit.

Check 4WD/AWD Systems (if applicable):

• If your vehicle has a four-wheel-drive (4WD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, ensure that it’s functioning correctly.

Check the Spare Tire and Jack:

• Ensure that your spare tire is in good condition, including checking and topping off the air frequently, as low temperatures can cause a loss of air.
• Check that the jack and lug wrench are in your vehicle.

Underbody Inspection:

• Regularly check the underbody of your vehicle for any signs of rust or damage caused by road salt.

Spreading Holiday Cheer Through Gratitude… and a Well-Maintained Vehicle

At METRO, our mechanics don’t just maintain vehicles; we’re here to make sure our clients can get where they need to go—safely and confidently. We genuinely appreciate our clients and the Fairbanks community, and we’re excited to continue providing quality service to make sure you can get to your loved ones for the holidays and all year round!

Get the Gift of Car Maintenance at METRO

The team at METRO takes your safety seriously, so we go the extra mile to ensure the reliability of your vehicle. We love helping our community and we love putting in the effort to care for each of our clients like family. 

As you drive home for the holidays you won’t just be carrying the warmth of the season but also the assurance that your vehicle is safe for the winter roads. 

Schedule your maintenance appointment today: https://metropolitangarage.com/appointment.