Yes, it’s officially fall, and October is just around the corner. Summer is slowly becoming a distant memory, and it’s time to start preparing for the colder months up ahead. Seasonal changes affect your vehicle in various ways. It’s essential to keep up with regular vehicle maintenance to enhance efficiency and promote longevity. The fall love you show your vehicle now will help it ride out the worse winter weather in the future. Below are fall car-care maintenance tips that will protect your investment for several months to come.
Check Your Battery.
Summer may be over, but hot temperatures may have wreaked havoc on your battery. Have your battery inspected to verify how much life it has left and to stay prepared for future replacement. The last thing you need is to set out for a drive only for your car not to start.
Top Off Your Fluids.
Check all of your essential fluids like your coolant, power steering fluid, transmission fluid, and brake fluid. Ensure that all of your fluids are topped off to the minimum requirements for your vehicle.
Test the Heater.
The fall is the perfect time to make sure the heater is working properly before the winter. If the heater is taking longer to start or the defroster system needs maintenance, the fall is the perfect time to have it fixed.
Get an Oil Change.
When was the last time you got an oil change? Check your oil and inspect the quality of the oil. If you haven’t gotten an oil change in the last few months, it would be a good time to schedule one.
Check the Lights.
Turn on the headlights, taillights, brakes lights, emergency flashers, etc. and do a walk around the car. This allows you to check for any broken bulbs or bulbs that need to be changed. If you notice any foggy headlights, you can make time to clean them to increase visibility.
Check the Air Filter.
The air filter is pretty simple to check. Pull out the air filter and place it in front of a 60-watt light bulb that’s turned on. If you can’t see through the filter, it’s time for it to be changed. The air filter ensures the air quality in the cabin is free of debris and pollution.
Check the Tires.
Tire pressure can change as the weather changes. Take a few minutes to ensure that all tires are at the proper tire pressure (psi). Keeping your tires at the correct psi will increase the tire’s life span and prevent premature wear.
Fall Automotive Maintenance Check in Gurnee, IL
D. Wells Automotive Service is a family-owned and operated auto repair shop that has expert technicians with over 20 years of experience. Whether you are due for a fall vehicle inspection or a major repair, we are here to ensure your vehicle is at optimal performance for several years. If you need automotive service in Gurnee, IL, give us a call at 847-505-0148 or click here to book an appointment.