As you can probably tell by the title of this blog, October is fall car care month! Most people only feel like they have to prepare their car for winter, but as we transition into fall, we'll have shorter days, fallen leaves, and increased possibilities of rain and fog. Not to mention, we're now entering the start of holidays such as Halloween and Thanksgiving that may require numerous road trips. There's no question that you're going to need your vehicle to be in tip-top shape for the fall season. Here are some essential maintenance tips to help you get ready for the seasonal changes.
- Check all vehicle fluids.
- Engine oil, power steering, brake, transmission, windshield washer fluid, and antifreeze/coolant.
- Check all belts and hoses on your car, SUV, or truck for signs of wear and tear.
- They should be free of cracks, brittleness, and fraying.
- Test and clean your battery and replace it if necessary.
- The connections should be clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Please remember to pack jumper cables with you just in case of emergencies.
- Check the brake system on your vehicle.
- You must be able to come to a full stop properly to avoid accidents.
- Inspect the exhaust system.
- It would be best for you to look for leaks, damage, and broken supports. Exhaust leaks can be loud and dangerous, so please take your car to a mechanic immediately if you suspect a problem.
- Check the engine performance to make sure you're attaining maximum power and fuel efficiency.
- Inspect the HVAC system to ensure it's working correctly.
- As the temperatures start to cool down, you may rely more on your defrosting system. Please examine the heating, ventilating, and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling functions are critical for interior comfort and safety.
- Inspect the steering and suspension system for optimal stability and control.
- This includes parts like shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, and other related components.
- Check the tires on your vehicle, including tire pressure and tread.
- Uneven wear symbolizes a need for wheel alignment (and other tire services).
- Test your wipers and lighting (interior and exterior).
- As mentioned before, there may be increased chances of rain and fog, so you'll need to depend on your lights and wipers to see clearly.
These essential car care maintenance procedures will go a long way. We highly advise that you take the time now to take care of your vehicle to help you avoid headaches and costly repairs during the holiday season. For all your car care needs, please give Stang Auto Tech a call or visit soon!