Car accidents are more common during the fall, due to unpredictable driving conditions. Darkness and slippery road surfaces mean that you need to prepare your car for anything.
But you might not know how to do fall auto maintenance on your car. There is a lot to remember, and forgetting something could lead to a dangerous situation.
Luckily, this article is here to give you some auto maintenance tips. We will cover all your fall car care needs. This includes checking different car systems, fluid levels, brakes, and tire pressure.
Check Your Heating and Defrosting System
If you haven’t used your heating system for a while, then check to make sure all the vents are working. You should check that the front and rear defrosters are functioning. These help to prevent condensation and frost build-up.
This system is important, as you will need to start warming up your car before using it as it gets colder. If you don’t, you can risk damaging the engine. It also makes it more comfortable to drive!
Test Brakes and Tires
You should check your tire pressure often to ensure it is the correct level. You can find the correct PSI (Pounds per Square Inch) in your car manual. Also, check your tires for wear and tear and put on snow chains if necessary.
You should also test your brakes. They need to be in top condition to deal with longer braking times on slippery roads. If you hear any squeaking or grinding, then you will need to change the brake pads.
Try Out the Lights
As the nights grow darker, you will need to make sure that you have excellent visibility. You will also be using them more often. So replacing them at the beginning of fall will save it from becoming an emergency.
This is easy to do by turning all the lights on in your car and then walking around to check each one in turn. Check these lights:
- Headlights
- Parking lights
- Taillights
- Brake lights
- Hazard lights
- Fog lights
If any bulbs seem dull or broken, you can replace them at your dealership or local auto repair shop.
Change Windscreen Wipers
Getting a new set of windscreen wiper blades is an important part of fall auto care. They often dry out, wear down or crack during the summer months in the sunshine. Over time they will become useless, and you need them to function to deal with the rain and snow of colder months.
Windscreen glass gets manufactured in a special way to add strength. Make sure your wipers function well, as this protects the glass and makes it last longer.
Check Fluid Levels
To keep your car running smoothly throughout the fall, make sure that all the fluids are at the right level. You will need to check your oil, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You should aim to change your oil every 7,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on the frequency of use and the model of the car.
You also need to ensure that you have enough antifreeze and coolant. This prevents freezing or overheating from happening in your engine.
Top Auto Maintenance Tips for Fall
Performing auto maintenance on your car before the fall is essential. To keep your car in top condition, follow these fall car care tips. They will give you peace of mind throughout the colder months.
If you are looking for experts in fall auto maintenance, trust BAMA Auto Glass. With over 35 years of experience, we can take care of any glass repair need that you might have. We can even come to you if you need emergency repairs!