As the holidays wind down and the New Year approaches, many drivers in Whatcom County are still on the road — heading back from family gatherings, commuting to work, or making winter trips toward Mt. Baker. Cold mornings, wet roads, and freezing temperatures all put added strain on your vehicle — and late December is one of the most important times of the year to make sure it’s ready for winter conditions.
A little preventive maintenance now can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, costly repairs, or safety issues in the weeks ahead.
Why Winter Conditions Are Tough on Your Vehicle
Cold weather affects every system in your vehicle. Fluids thicken, batteries lose power, belts and hoses can become brittle, and tires often lose pressure overnight. Winter also brings:
- Limited daylight
- Increased moisture and fog
- Slick and icy road surfaces
These conditions increase the risk of no-start situations, traction issues, reduced braking performance, and visibility problems.
That’s why a preventative winter inspection is one of the best ways to prepare your vehicle for the coldest months of the year.
Introducing Our Winter Bumper to Bumper Service Inspection
As temperatures drop in Whatcom County, our Winter Bumper to Bumper Service Inspection is designed to give you confidence, safety, and clarity about your vehicle’s condition.
This seasonal service special is available for $159.99 and includes:
- A full lube, oil, and filter service
- A comprehensive inspection performed by our ASE Certified Technicians
During the inspection, we check:
- Steering and suspension components
- Brake condition and wear
- All fluids and fluid levels
- Hoses and belts
- Charging system performance
- Transmission fluid condition and potential leaks
- CV boots
- Battery terminals and condition
- Lights, signals, and visibility systems
- Wiper and washer operation
- Tire condition and proper pressure
- Overall system operation
- Additional key components that affect winter performance
This thorough review covers more than 99 elements of your vehicle, ensuring you have a clear understanding of its current health heading into winter.
Benefits of a Winter Inspection
A Winter Bumper to Bumper Inspection helps reduce the risk of:
- No-start situations on cold mornings
- Tire failures or alignment concerns
- Reduced braking performance
- Heating and defrost problems
- Visibility issues from worn wipers or faulty lights
- Unexpected breakdowns during winter or holiday travel
With proper preparation, winter driving becomes safer, smoother, and far less stressful.
Additional Winter Safety Checks to Consider
Along with a seasonal inspection, now is also a great time to review other essential systems that affect winter performance:
Battery health
Cold weather can drain weak batteries quickly. If your vehicle cranks slowly or your battery is 3–5 years old, a test can prevent surprises.
Tires and traction
Check:
- Tread depth
- Tire pressure (it drops in cold weather)
- Uneven wear
Good traction improves steering control and stopping distance on wet or icy roads.
Brakes
Schedule a brake check if you notice:
- Grinding or squeaking
- Vibrations when stopping
- A soft brake pedal
Visibility & defrost systems
Make sure your:
- Wipers are streak-free
- Front and rear defrosters work properly
- Headlights and brake lights are bright and functioning
Small issues here can quickly become safety hazards in winter conditions.
Trusted Local Technicians You Can Rely On
Bellingham Automotive has served Whatcom County for more than 30 years. Our ASE Certified Technicians focus on accuracy, honesty, and thorough service — and we take pride in keeping our community safely on the road through every season.
Schedule Your Winter Bumper to Bumper Service Inspection
Our Winter Bumper to Bumper Service Inspection is available for $159.99, and appointments fill quickly as temperatures drop.
📞 Call to schedule: 360-676-5200
💻 Book online: https://bellinghamautomotive.com/appointment/
Prepare for winter with confidence. Bellingham Automotive is here to help you stay safe on the road all season long.