October is Fall Car Care Month, making it the perfect time for drivers to make sure their vehicles are ready for the demands of the autumn season.
Car Maintenance for the Fall
Fall may seem like a pleasant continuation of summer, but weather conditions can change abruptly. Soon the days will be shorter, the nights darker and the temperatures colder. Here are a few tips to make sure that your vehicle is better prepared for autumn:
- Clean Headlamp Enclosures or Replace Bulbs:
The nights start earlier, last longer and are darker, which means less visibility. Not to mention, fall conditions increase the likelihood for fog. It all adds up to make it the perfect time to make sure your vehicle obliges the old adage: "See and be seen." It might be time to replace your bulbs, and if not, you'd be surprised at the visibility increase a good, cleaning can provide your headlamp enclosures. - Check Wiper Blades:
An autumn rain storm can seem like a monsoon next to a summer shower, and they often develop suddenly and unexpectedly. If your wipers look worn and torn, or are leaving streaks or making excessive noise when on, that means it's time to replace them. - Battery Maintenance:
Cold weather is hard on car batteries, so you are going to want to make sure yours is operating correctly. The typical battery lasts 3 to 4 years before giving out, so you might want to think about replacing it if it's getting up there in age. At a minimum, pop the hood and make sure it's free of corrosion and all connections are secure. - Tire Pressure Vigilance:
Did you know that air pressure can drop one PSI, or pound per square inch, for every 10-degree drop in temperature? The New England Patriots sure do, and now you do too. With the fluctuating temperatures that come with autumn, you should check your tire pressure more often than you normally would. - HVAC System Checkup:
It's most likely been a good many months since you've turned on your vehicle's heater. In many places, an October frost is as common as having turkey on Thanksgiving, so you are going to want to make sure your defroster and heater are operating properly. - Inspect Brakes:
The brake system is a vehicle's most important safety system. Since they naturally wear with use, it's never a bad time to make sure they are working properly. That's especially true in the fall, when the leaves are falling and it's mating season for deer. A pile of leaves may not seem threatening, but they can become as slick as a patch of ice if they become wet. And hitting a deer can significantly damage your car, so you'll want to be able to stop quickly if one happens to dart out onto the road in front of you. If your brakes are screechy or grabby, it's time to get them inspected.
Are You in Need of an Auto Upgrade?
If your car problems include many of the above issues and you don't feel it's ready for fall, it might be time for an upgrade. At Auto Credit Express, we can help you find the auto financing for any credit situation. If you are looking for an auto loan, all you need to do is fill out our quick and secure online application to get started today.
