Calgary’s shoulder season can flip from sunny to subzero in hours. Use this quick checklist to handle fall car maintenance in Calgary before the first cold snap (and the first surprise dump of snow).
Your Calgary Fall Checklist (Quick Hits)
- Tires & Wheels: Measure tread (≥4 mm for fall; deeper for winter). Inspect for sidewall cracks and uneven wear. Plan your winter set now.
- Battery & Charging: Cold cranking suffers below −15 °C. If your battery is 3–5 years old, get a load test and clean terminals.
- Oil & Filter: Cold starts need the right viscosity. Stick to OEM spec (often 0W-20 or 5W-30 for winter). Book an Oil Change Service.
- Coolant & Block Heater: Verify freeze protection and coolant level; confirm your block-heater cord isn’t frayed and the element draws power.
- Brakes & Suspension: Freeze–thaw and potholes can knock alignment out. Listen for grinding/squeal; feel for pulsing or pull under braking.
- Wipers & Fluids: Swap streaky blades and top up –40 °C washer fluid. Keep an extra jug in the trunk.
- Belts, Hoses, Filters: Look for glazing, cracks, bulges. Replace cabin filter for clearer, faster defogging.
- Emergency Kit: Gloves, scraper/brush, booster cables, LED flashlight, blanket, phone charger, traction aid.
When to Switch to Winter Tires in Calgary?
Follow the 7 °C rule: once average daily temps sit at or below 7 °C, switch. Chinooks create freeze–thaw cycles that leave black ice overnight and early morning. Winter compounds stay pliable and grip better in these swings—book your tire changeover.
Why Fall Maintenance Matters Here
Rapid temperature swings stress batteries, thicken oil at startup, and turn small coolant issues into major repairs. Proactive checks reduce no-start mornings and mid-winter breakdowns—and they’re usually faster and cheaper before the first storm. See our Preventative Maintenance options.
DIY vs. Shop
Do the easy wins at home (wipers, washer fluid, trunk kit). For batteries, brakes, oil viscosity, coolant concentration, and alignment, have a tech inspect, test, and document findings. Rite-Price Auto Service Centre can bundle a pre-winter inspection with any service.
Ready to book?
- Online: Contact Us
- Call: 587-324-8661