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09
Sep
Get Your Car Ready for Autumn
Autumn | Unsplash
Photo by Karolina Badzmierowska on Unsplash
Autumn is here once again and this means that the surroundings will be more colorful once again. There will be long nights and shorter days. And in a few more weeks, houses and businesses will be putting up Christmas displays.
As the season’s change, so is the road and driving conditions. Which is why we would like to share with you some useful tips to keep your car in shape for the fall season.
There are three quick ways to keep your car ready for fall.
Check the fluids.
Fluid | Unsplash
Photo by Yingchih Hao on Unsplash
The temperature during the fall season is perfect for checking your vehicle’s fluids. It is the best time if the fluids need replacing or not. The consistency of fluids changes during colder months and the way they move through the car’s engine.
The changes in temperature may affect the ratio of water to coolant. The ratio should be 40:60 (40% water and 60% coolant). Coolant maintains the engine’s temperature at safe levels.
Check your transmission fluids, washer fluids, power steering fluids, and brake fluids. Check if they need topping off. Good fluid levels contribute to your car’s well-being.
Check the tires.
Tire | | Unsplash
Photo by Frank Albrecht on Unsplash
Tires are the most important part of the vehicle. The condition of your car’s tires may determine how safe you will be on the road. Make sure that your tire treads are still acceptable for driving.
Use a penny to check your tire’s tread. If you see all of Lincoln’s head, the tire is not safe to use and needs replacing.
The colder temperature also affects tire pressure. It will decrease by 1 psi for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Check the tire pressure once in a while as the temperature changes throughout this season.
Take time to rotate your tires so that they wear evenly. You might not need snow tires just yet but it is a great time to buy one. Because whether you like it or not, the winter season is coming right after fall.
Check the wipers.
Wipers | Unsplash
Photo by Ronald Smeets on Unsplash
The wiper blades may not look that important because it is not used that often. But during rainy and snowy weather, wipers are very useful. It is best to replace them every six months.
The scorching summer heat may speed up the wear and tear of wiper blades. The fall season is the best time to replace wiper blades. Cracked rubber making contact with the glass may cause damage to the windshield.
Replacing it is easy. Just head on to your nearest car parts store and you can find the best fit for your vehicle. This is also the best time to stock up on winter washer fluid.
But in addition to that, you might also want to do the following:
Prepare for colder weather.
Snow | Unsplash
Photo by Jessica Fadel on Unsplash
It will be just a few weeks and the winter season will start to kick in. You better be prepared even before it starts to snow.
It is the best time to stock up on winter gear and emergency supplies. You definitely would not want to be stuck in a roadside emergency during winter.
Make sure that you have the following in your car:
- Ice Scraper
- Gloves
- First Aid Kit
- Blanket
- Flashlight
- Jumper Cables
Check the belts and hoses.
Engine | Unsplash
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Fall is also the best time to check the integrity of your hoses and belts. See if there are leaks, wears, and cracks on them. The summer heat might take a toll on them. If you notice them, bring them to the mechanic for replacement.
Check the heating system.
Air Vent | Unsplash
Photo by Olav Tvedt on Unsplash
As the weather becomes colder, the more you need to use the heating system. Make sure that it works fine. Check the defroster because it will keep your windshield’s visibility during winter.
Check the engine oil.
Engine Oil | Unsplash
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Never skip changing the engine oil at the proper interval. The oil change interval depends on your vehicle’s model. Look it up at the owner’s manual for proper guidance.
Replace the mats.
Spill | Unsplash
Photo by Erik Nielsen on Unsplash
Switch to all-weather floor mats. It will protect your car’s floor from wear and tear, spills, stains, grime, water, snow, and dirt.
Check the brakes.
Brakes | Unsplash
Photo by Samuel Zeller on Unsplash
Another important part of the vehicle is the brakes. Colder weather and slippery roads may affect how the brakes work. Have it checked and replaced if needed.
Check the battery.
Battery | Unsplash
Photo by milan degraeve on Unsplash
The battery is needed to jumpstart a vehicle. Make sure that it has no signs of corrosion and is fully charged. If you see signs of a problem with the battery, take it to the nearest auto shop for a replacement.
Check the lights.
Headlights | Unsplash
Photo by Carson Masterson on Unsplash
Inspect all of your vehicle’s lights if they are all working. Check the taillights, headlights, flashers, and brake lights. If you see anything that’s not working, replace it right away.
Lights are crucial for safe driving. It lets you see others and be seen by other drivers in dark and harsh conditions.
Fall season | Unsplash
Photo by Alisa Anton on Unsplash
And that was about it. We hope that we have helped you with these quick car care tips. You are sure to be ready for autumn and the coming winter (minus the snow tires, not yet!).
If this post has been helpful, feel free to share it on social media. You can also leave a comment below.
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