Owning a vehicle means taking the time to service and repair it to get the most out of your investment. Regular maintenance can also keep your vehicle safer on the roads and may even help you avoid more expensive auto repairs in the future.
Since October is Fall Car Care Month, we wanted to share some helpful tips on which service items should be on your car care to-do list and why. This could end up saving you a lot of money, so read on!
Why is autumn car care so important?
Well, the arrival of autumn means that your vehicle is recovering from the high temperatures and long journeys of summer. Plus, just around the corner are colder temperatures, leaf fall, and other environmental changes that could affect your car.
The Automotive Care Council recognizes October as Fall Car Care Month. This is a great way to remind people to pay a little extra attention to their vehicles and schedule preventative maintenance at their trusted local garage. Completing small auto repair or maintenance items now can save you from costly problems during the winter.
The best tech tips for fall car care month
When visiting your auto repair shop, these are some of the most important vehicle maintenance services to consider:
1. Check the fluids
Your vehicle needs several types of fluids to keep its components running smoothly, from engine oil and power steering fluid to brake fluid, transmission fluid, and even windshield wiper fluid and antifreeze. Refilling these essential fluids will keep your vehicle’s systems running smoothly.
2. Inspect hoses and belts
These important parts also need to be in good condition for your vehicle to run well. Exposure to summer heat is one of the most common reasons belts and hoses deteriorate. Your repair shop should check for leaks, excessive wear, cracks, brittle, worn or loose areas.
3. Battery check
The summer heat can drain your battery and so can the cold. If your car battery is in poor condition, you could be stranded when you least expect it. Schedule battery service to learn more about the condition of your battery and whether or not it needs to be replaced.
4. Checking the brake system
Brakes are important to driving safety, but when it’s colder, they’re more important than ever. Have your brakes, pads, rotors, linings and drums checked by your trusted mechanic.
5. Inspection of the exhaust system
Have your exhaust system inspected for leaks, holes, rust or any other signs of damage. Listen for strange noises and keep an eye out for reduced fuel consumption, unusual smells, vibration from the accelerator pedal or a strange rumble at idle. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule service as soon as possible.
6. Inspection of the HVAC system
Your car’s air conditioning system works to cool, heat, ventilate and dehumidify the entire interior. Keep this system in good working order all year round for safety and driving comfort.
7. Management and Suspension Service
Annual checkups on shocks, struts and chassis parts can keep your vehicle running smoothly.
8. Tire maintenance and service
Colder weather and varying road temperatures affect how well your vehicle maintains traction on the road. And proper tire pressure can significantly affect your driving safety, as tire pressure drops 1 to 2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature. Schedule tire service to ensure your tires are at optimal pressure and free of excessive wear, rips or bulges.
9. Inspection of windshield wipers and lights
The weather can be unpredictable and you want to see and be seen in all kinds of weather. Consider replacing or upgrading your lights or wipers to improve driving safety.
10. Wax the exterior of your vehicle
Getting off the summer dirt can help protect and prepare your vehicle’s body for what’s to come. Plus, you’ll also feel good driving a nice-looking vehicle.
Celebrate Fall Car Care Month at Good Works Auto Repair in Tempe, AZ
We know how much you trust your vehicle, and you can trust us to make sure you can continue driving next season without a problem! Call us or schedule an appointment online today. We’re happy to help you give your vehicle a little extra attention this October!
