The weather is changing and it is a beautiful thing! The leaves are turning to shades of orange, red, yellow, and brown and falling to the earth; people are changing out their wardrobe to fit the season and stores are reintroducing everything pumpkin spice along with hints of Halloween and Thanksgiving.
One thing you may not think about changing during this time is the way you care for your vehicle. Most people who own a car or truck are aware that special care must be taken during the summer and winter months; however, the fall is another season in which you might want to check a few things out.
October is coincidentally considered “Fall Car Care Month,” which was adopted by the Car Care Council. October is the perfect time of year to make sure your vehicle is in great shape, right between the sweltering summer and the bitter winter.
Here are the top ten things to check out in the fall—offered by the Car Care Council themselves:
- Check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
- Check the hoses and belts to make sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose or showing signs of excessive wear.
- Check the battery and replace if necessary. Make sure the connection is clean, tight and corrosion-free.
- Check the brake system annually and have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
- Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage and broken supports or hangers if there is an unusual noise. Exhaust leaks can be dangerous and must be corrected without delay.
- Check the engine to make sure it is delivering the best balance of power and fuel economy and producing the lowest level of emissions.
- Check the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system as proper heating and cooling performance is critical for interior comfort and safety reasons such as defrosting.
- Inspect the steering and suspension system annually, including shock absorbers, struts and chassis parts such as ball joints, tie rod ends and other related components.
- Check the tires, including tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots.
- Check the wipers and lighting so that you can see and be seen. Check that all interior and exterior lighting is working properly and replace worn wiper blades so you can see clearly when driving during precipitation.
Doing these important tasks before winter comes along will save you time, money, and hassle. You definitely want to be proactive and not get stuck out on a messy winter road with car trouble. Enjoy the fall and glide into winter with no worries concerning your vehicle!
For all of your fall auto body needs, go to Downtown Autobody– where they are trusted locally by friends and family.
