The numbers are in, confirming what we all knew: Colorado continues to be a popular move-in destination. And what’s not to love?
Winter or summer, you’ll find the perfect opportunity for outside activities. Denver is known for its sunshine, but you can find lots of snow during the cooler months to get your fill.
Of course, getting you wherever you’re going safely is essential. And living in Colorado means your car sees a little bit of everything: snowy mountain passes, scorching summer highways, rocky backroads, and temperature swings that can go from freezing mornings to 80-degree afternoons.
That kind of variety is great for adventure. But it’s hard on your vehicle.
Scheduling regular vehicle inspections is one of the smartest ways to avoid breakdowns and expensive repairs. But timing matters. If you plan ahead, you can catch issues before they become problems, keep your car running smoothly, and stay safe year-round.
Here’s a seasonal breakdown of the best times to schedule a vehicle inspection in Colorado.
Early Fall: Prepare for Winter Driving
We feel the best time to get ready for winter driving is before the snow and cold set in. Think September or October.
Colorado winters can be unpredictable: sunny one day, snowing the next. Scheduling an inspection in early fall gives you a chance to prepare for winter conditions before the first snowfall.
Make sure to check:
- Tires: Proper tread depth and winter readiness
- Brakes: Critical for icy roads and steep descents
- Battery: Cold weather can drain weak batteries quickly
- Heating & defrost systems: Essential for comfort and visibility
- Fluids: Make sure coolant and washer fluid are ready for freezing temps
Yes, it matters. Mountain passes and Denver streets alike can become slippery fast. Being proactive now helps you avoid winter roadside emergencies.
Late Winter: Recover from the Cold
Spring is in sight! But it’s not over yet. There may still be a blizzard or two in between some beautiful spring days. Still, your car has been through a lot these past few months. Now that it’s February or March, it’s time for a peek inside your car. After months of battling snow, ice, and magnesium chloride treatments on the roads, your vehicle deserves a little TLC.
We suggest checking:
- Undercarriage inspection: Road treatments can cause corrosion and damage
- Brakes and rotors: Cold, wet conditions accelerate wear
- Suspension system: Potholes from winter freeze-thaw cycles can knock things out of alignment
- Tires: Check for uneven wear caused by harsh winter driving
Winter driving can be brutal on your vehicle. An inspection at this stage helps you catch damage early before it turns into a bigger repair bill.
Spring: Get Ready for Summer Road Trips
The springtime in the Rockies is grand! The kids are finishing school. The weather isn’t scorching hot – it’s the perfect time to think about traveling. That’s why April or May is a great time to schedule a vehicle inspection.
Whether you’re planning a mountain hike, a camping trip, or a weekend getaway, making sure your vehicle is road-trip-ready can save you from unexpected trouble. Check:
- Air conditioning: Don’t get caught without it on a 95° day
- Cooling system: Prevents overheating during long drives and steep climbs
- Belts and hoses: Winter wear and summer heat can cause cracks
- Fluids: Top off engine oil, transmission, and coolant
Colorado summers often mean longer drives, heavier loads, and climbing into higher altitudes. Preparing your car now ensures a smoother, safer season.
Mid-Summer: Handle the Heat
Denver’s summer temps may not be as extreme as Phoenix’s, but between high heat, road trips, and climbing mountain passes, your vehicle works hard. Schedule an inspection in June or July to ensure your car is ready for it all. Check:
- Cooling system pressure test: Protects against overheating
- Tire pressure: Heat can cause pressure to spike and affect handling
- Air filters: Dust from trails and wildfire season can clog systems fast
- Transmission fluid: Especially important if you’re towing campers or boats
Extreme heat plus high altitude equals added stress on your engine and tires. Mid-summer inspections keep you on track for safe travels.
Before Major Road Trips: Anytime, All Year
If you’re planning to head out on a big road trip, schedule an inspection at least a week before you leave. All road trips can add stress, whether it’s a ski weekend in Vail or a camping adventure near Telluride. And if you’re heading out to explore other states, knowing your car is in good condition will give you peace of mind.
Ask your mechanic to check:
- Tire condition and pressure
- Brake performance
- Fluid levels and leaks
- Battery health
- Wiper blades and visibility
Road trips can be tough on vehicles. Hours of driving. Extreme temperatures. Unfamiliar conditions. Catching issues before you leave helps ensure you arrive safely and avoid unexpected roadside delays.
Why Routine Vehicle Inspections Save You Money
We get it; inspections add more to your already busy days. Skipping inspections can seem like a time-saver, until a small, unnoticed problem turns into a big repair.
Yes, everything is going up in price these days. Auto repair is no exception. According to a report from Cox Automotive, the average auto repair today sits right at $838 to fix a car. And that’s average.
But waiting isn’t the solution to make those numbers go down. In fact, they’ll climb quickly if you ignore minor problems.
Preventative checks help:
- Catch early signs of wear and tear
- Reduce the risk of costly breakdowns
- Extend the life of your vehicle
- Keep your warranty valid
- Improve fuel efficiency and performance
Colorado driving isn’t like driving anywhere else. Between steep mountain passes, temperature swings, and weather that changes without warning, your vehicle has a lot to handle. The key to keeping it running smoothly? Timing your inspections around the seasons.
We make it easy to prepare your vehicle for Colorado’s unique conditions. Whether you need a pre-winter check, a spring tune-up, or a quick inspection before your next adventure, we’re here to help.