Autumn is just around the corner, and while it brings cooler weather and beautiful sights, it also means your car needs some extra attention. The changing season can affect your vehicle in ways you might not realize. Preparing your car for autumn is key to avoiding unexpected breakdowns and ensuring it’s ready to handle the chillier, unpredictable weather. So, what should you focus on before the leaves start falling?
Check Your Tires for Wear and Pressure
Tires are one of the most important components of your car, and they need special attention as the temperatures drop. Cooler air can cause your tire pressure to decrease, which can lead to poor handling and reduced fuel efficiency. Start by checking the tire pressure and adjust it according to your car's manual recommendations. Most gas stations have air pumps available, making it easy to get your tires in shape.
Also, take a close look at the tread on your tires. Worn-out tires can lose traction on wet or slippery roads, which are more common in the fall due to rain and falling leaves. If your tire tread is worn down or uneven, it might be time to consider replacing them. Having proper tire tread ensures that your car can grip the road effectively, especially in more hazardous driving conditions.
Inspect Your Wiper Blades and Fluid Levels
Autumn often means more rain, and that makes your wipers and washer fluid vital for visibility. If your wiper blades are old or leave streaks, replace them before you find yourself driving in heavy rain. Worn-out wiper blades won’t clear your windshield properly, making it harder to see and react to potential road hazards.
While you're at it, top off your windshield washer fluid and make sure it's rated for cooler temperatures. The last thing you want is to run out of washer fluid when the roads are wet or when you need to clear your windshield from early morning fog or frost.
Check Your Battery and Electrical System
As temperatures start to dip, your car’s battery works harder to start the engine. A weak battery may fail completely once the cold weather sets in. Checking your battery's health is crucial to avoid getting stranded with a dead car on a chilly autumn morning. If your battery is more than three years old, consider having it tested by a professional to ensure it still holds a strong charge.
It’s also a good idea to inspect the battery terminals for any corrosion. Cleaning off any buildup can improve the connection and help extend the life of your battery. Don’t forget to also check your lights—both headlights and brake lights—to make sure they're all functioning correctly. With less daylight and foggy or rainy conditions, properly working lights are essential for visibility and safety.
Get Your Brakes Inspected
Brakes are vital year-round, but autumn presents unique challenges that make brake performance even more important. Wet roads, falling leaves, and early morning frost can make roads slippery. Your brakes need to be in top condition to ensure that you can stop quickly and safely. If you’ve noticed any unusual noises, such as squealing or grinding, when applying your brakes, it’s time to get them checked.
Even if you haven’t noticed anything unusual, it’s a good idea to have a brake inspection before autumn really kicks in. A simple check can identify worn-out brake pads or other issues before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) problems.
Test the Heating System and Defroster
As the weather gets cooler, you’ll be relying on your car’s heating system to keep you comfortable. Before the cold really sets in, make sure your heater is working properly. Turn it on and let it run for a bit to see if it warms up as it should. If not, it could indicate a problem with your car’s coolant system or heater core, both of which will need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
Your defroster is also critical, as autumn mornings tend to be foggy or frosty. Ensuring your defroster is functioning properly means you won’t be stuck trying to scrape ice off the windshield with only a tiny patch of visibility.
Is your car ready for autumn? Don't wait for the first cold snap to find out. Taylormade Automotive offers professional inspections and repairs to keep you on the road safely. Contact us now to schedule an appointment and drive into fall with confidence.