Canon City has milder winters than most of Colorado, but cold snaps, icy mornings and snow on the roads out of town still catch unprepared vehicles every year. The first hard freeze is when weak batteries fail, worn wipers smear, low tire pressure shows up and old coolant is put to the test. Under the Bus Auto performs winter vehicle maintenance at your home or workplace in Canon City and across Fremont County, so your car or truck is ready before the weather turns.
Our Winter Vehicle Checklist
Battery and Charging System
A battery loses a significant share of its cranking power in freezing temperatures, while a cold engine needs more power to turn over. We load test the battery, clean and tighten the terminals, and check the alternator. If the battery is weak, it is far better to replace it in the fall than to need a jump on a January morning.
Antifreeze and Cooling System
We test the coolant’s freeze protection and condition and inspect hoses, the radiator and belts. Coolant also protects the engine from corrosion, so old coolant should be replaced even if it still protects against freezing.
Tires
Tire pressure drops as the temperature falls, and low pressure reduces traction and increases wear. We check pressure and tread depth and look for damage. If you drive over passes or into the high country, consider whether your tires are suitable for snow, and know Colorado’s traction law requirements for mountain corridors.
Brakes
Slick roads demand brakes in good condition. We inspect pads, rotors and brake fluid. If repairs are needed, see mobile brake repair.
Wipers, Washer Fluid and Lights
We replace worn wiper blades, fill the washer reservoir with fluid rated for freezing temperatures, and check headlights, taillights and turn signals. Shorter days mean more driving in the dark.
Heater and Defroster
A working defroster is a safety item. We confirm that the heater and defroster work properly so windows clear quickly.
Oil
Cold starts are when an engine wears the most. If your oil change is due, winter is the time to make sure the correct grade is in the engine. See mobile oil change.
Diesel Trucks Need Extra Winter Attention
Diesel pickups are more sensitive to cold. Block heaters, glow plugs, fuel filters, water separators and winter fuel treatment all matter. See diesel and work truck maintenance for details.
Put Together a Winter Kit
Keep an ice scraper and snow brush, jumper cables or a jump pack, a flashlight, gloves, a warm blanket, water, snacks and a phone charger in the vehicle. If you travel on rural roads in Fremont, Custer or Teller County, a bag of sand or traction mats can help if you get stuck.
Business Vehicles
If you manage several vehicles for a business, our fleet winterization service handles the entire group on site.
Schedule Winter Vehicle Maintenance in Canon City
Call (719) 964-0522 or send us a message to book service. We work Monday through Saturday, 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Tell us the year, make and model, what the vehicle is doing, and where it is parked, and we will confirm what we can handle on site.
Winter Vehicle Service Throughout Fremont County
Under the Bus Auto is based in Canon City and covers Fremont County and the surrounding area. Nearby service areas include Florence, Penrose, Lincoln Park, Brookside, Williamsburg, Rockvale, Coal Creek, the Royal Gorge area, Wetmore. See the full list on our service areas page.