It’s Fall Car Care Month at Summerville Ford. While the name may make it sound like it’s always Summer here, September and October are the perfect months to make sure your car is up to par. We may not get winter like up north, but cooler weather can affect your car in a number of ways.
The Quintessential Fall Car Care Month Checklist
October is Fall Car Care Month, a perfect time to prepare your vehicle for the colder weather ahead. Here are 10 tips to help you keep your car running smoothly and safely this season.
15 Tips to Prepare Your Car For Winter
- Check your battery. Cold temperatures can reduce the power of your battery, so make sure it is in good condition and has enough charge. You can test your battery yourself or have a professional do it for you.
- Change your oil and filter. Oil lubricates your engine and prevents wear and tear. It also helps to keep your engine cool and clean. You should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for oil change intervals, but generally, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles.
- Replace your wiper blades. Rain, snow, and ice can impair your visibility, so you need to have effective wipers. You should replace your wiper blades every six months or when they start to streak, squeak, or smear.
- Inspect your tires. Your tires are the only part of your car that touches the road, so they need to be in good shape. You should check the tire pressure, tread depth, and alignment regularly.
- Check your brakes. Your brakes are essential for your safety, especially in wet or slippery conditions. You should have your brakes inspected by a professional at least once a year or whenever you notice any signs of trouble, such as squealing, grinding, or pulsating.
- Flush your cooling system. Your cooling system prevents your engine from overheating and freezing. You should flush your cooling system and replace the coolant every two years or according to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Replace your air filter. Your air filter cleans the air that enters your engine and improves its performance and fuel efficiency. You should replace your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or more often if you drive in dusty or polluted areas.
- Check your lights. Your lights help you see and be seen on the road, so you need to make sure they are working properly. You should check your headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and fog lights regularly and replace any burned-out bulbs.
- Clean your car. Dirt, salt, and debris can damage your car’s paint and cause rust and corrosion. You should wash your car regularly and apply a coat of wax to protect it from the elements. You should also vacuum and wipe down the interior to keep it fresh and comfortable.
- Stock up on emergency supplies. You never know when you might encounter a breakdown or an accident, so you should be prepared for any situation. You should have a basic emergency kit in your car that includes items such as jumper cables, flashlights, flares, a first-aid kit, a blanket, water, and snacks.
Schedule a Check Up at Summerville Ford
It may seem like a lot to keep track of, but if you follow this Fall car care checklist, you’ll be more than prepared for when the cooler months roll around. And if there’s anything you need to replace or you can’t check out yourself, you can always make Summerville Ford a part of your winter car prep by scheduling an appointment with our service center in Charleston. Make sure you prepare your car for winter right with Summerville Ford!
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