As we transition into the fall season, we’ll expect to see cooler brisk temperatures, time changes, and leaves covering everyone’s yard. With all of these changes coming our way, it’s important to make sure that your car is functioning properly and is ready to adapt to the new weather and environmental conditions. A quick check up can help expose and patch up any car problems endured from the summer months and prepare you for the upcoming season. Check out these 5 car care tips for the fall!
Battery – Colder weather can take a toll on your car battery, so it’s vital that you make sure it’s in prime condition to withstand the dropping temperatures. Keep the battery clean and make sure that there aren’t any signs of corrosion. Failing batteries usually don’t breed many warning signs, so have a professional technician take a look under the hood to see if your battery needs to be replaced before fall arrives.
Breaks & Tires – With cold weather comes more moisture in the air, which can make it harder to stop your car due to the slicker road conditions. Make sure your brakes are operating on all cylinders so that you’re able to properly stop in any situation. Colder weather can also lower your tire pressure too, so make sure that your tires are properly inflated and are free of any wear and tear that can affect your break speed.
Heater, Defrosters and Windshield Wipers – There’s nothing more miserable than riding in a freezing car without any source of heat. Since you haven’t used your heater the past four months, you may want to test it out beforehand, so that you’re not driving in a refrigerator with wheels. Your defroster and wipers need to be inspected as well, due to the upcoming inclement weather. These conditions will take a toll on your windshield, so it’s important that you have the tools to combat anything affecting your vision.
Lights – Daylight Saving Time is steadily approaching as well, which means it’ll get darker earlier in the evenings. Because of this, it’s important to have working tail lights and head lights so that you can safely navigate these darker road conditions. Properly functioning lights will also help increase your chances of safety in regards to increased precipitation during this time.
Oil and Air Filter -Your car oil is most likely dirty and needs to be replaced after the long summer months. Getting an oil change before the fall hits will ensure you that your engine performance will transition smoothly. Also, since you will be using your heater often, having a clear air filter will help circulate the air throughout your car more efficiently.
With the change of seasons, it’s also a great time to make sure that all of your insurance needs are up-to-date. Give us a call at 1-800-Thanks-Al to have an agent make sure that your auto insurance has the right amount of coverage for your family and your needs. We can also make sure that you are getting the best rate for your policy. You might even qualify for additional discounts, especially if you have your home insurance with us.
From all of us at Al Boenker Insurance, we hope that these tips find you well and keep you safe during the upcoming months!