OCTOBER IS FALL CAR CARE MONTH
The month of October marks the start of Fall Car Care Month, which kicks off the start of getting your car ready for the fall and winter months ahead. The weather will begin changing rapidly, and now is the time to be aware of what your car needs going into the colder months ahead. Getting your vehicle prepped for the changing seasons will not only save you money by avoiding repairs, but will also ensure your safety on the road!
The changing weather means rain and colder temperatures, which can bring new challenges when driving. This is why the Car Care Council recommends the following fall maintenance items be taken care of now:
- Brakes – The brake system should be inspected at this time to ensure that they are in proper working order. Braking in the rain or ice can be tricky, and bad brakes can make certain risky situations worse. The rotors, fluid, pads, lines, and all other critical parts should be inspected to make sure that everything is working as it should.
- Belts & Hoses – Belts and hoses are important to make sure that certain symptoms are working at they should. Hoses help vital fluids travel and belts make sure the timing of certain systems is correct. Hoses need to be inspected for corrosion and belts should be checked for any signs of wear or tear.
- Battery – A dead car battery isn’t uncommon during the colder months, so making sure that your battery has an efficient charge is critical. Batteries typically only last between 3-4 years, so if it’s been a while since your last replacement, you may need to consider a new one.
- Fluids – Inspecting all fluids to make sure they are clean and topped off will ensure that your vehicle’s important systems work well throughout the colder weather. These fluids include engine oil, power steering fluid, brake fluid, transmission fluid, windshield wiper solvent, and coolant.
- Engine – The engine should be inspected for proper emissions and fuel efficiency and all parts should be inspected to check for any corrosion or damage.
- Exhaust – The exhaust system should be checked to ensure that it is converting harmful emissions properly.
- Steering & Suspension – You need your steering and suspension system to work properly in order to be able to control your vehicle correctly in any weather condition. The shocks and struts, chassis, tie rods, and other suspension components should be inspected.
- HVAC – The heater, defroster, and air conditioning systems should be checked over. More importantly, the heater and defroster need to be working in order to keep you comfortable on the road and make sure that you have proper visibility.
- Tires – Your tires should have good tread, be in good condition, and have the proper PSI to ensure your safety in any weather condition.
- Wipers & Headlights – Both of these components are critical to your ability to see the road clearly, so make sure that your wipers are replaced if needed and that your headlights are tested for proper working order.
If it’s time for your vehicle’s fall maintenance, we invite you into our professionals here at Eric’s Automotive for service today!
