Problems with your vehicle can come at any time of year. Of course winter presents unique challenges, as does summer with searing heat that affects thousands of car batteries every year.
But what about fall?
Battery
The two biggest contributors to car battery problems are heat and overcharging. This means you’re most at risk from problems during the summer and winter months when temperatures are above or below normal. If you’re car battery has made it past the summer, that’s not to say that it’s still in perfect health, and you don’t want to be stuck in the winter with a car that won’t start. So the fall makes for a good time to have your battery health checked.
Have the battery load tested and replace if it comes back as being weak.
Signs that you have problems with your car battery would be problems starting, or a slow starting engine, dim lights or corroded connectors on the battery itself.
Air Conditioning
It’s not just for cooling you down in the summer! Air conditioning plays an important role in the fall and winter too, helping to defog your windshield and reduce indoor humidity in the rain and snow.
If you haven’t had your A/C checked in the summer, it may be time to think about an inspection in the fall.
Tires
You don’t need to switch to snow tires yet, but you should still pay attention to your tires in the fall, just like any time of year. When the roads are wet, your car will have less traction and be at an increased risk of hydroplaning. The risk increases when your tire tread or tire pressure is low.
If you don’t regularly check your tire pressure or tread, be sure to start the habit in the fall and winter. Also be aware that colder temperatures have an impact on tire pressure and can reduce it, making it more important that you keep it topped up.
Wipers and Washer Fluid
Now there’s a greater risk of rain and adverse weather it’s a good idea to pay attention to your wipers. If they don’t clear the windshield properly, shriek or smear try giving them a good clean. If that doesn’t work it may be time to consider a replacement.
You don’t want to get stuck in a heavy storm with an inefficient wiper blade. Even if your wipers work enough for light rain, consider if they’re up to the task of a heavy storm.
It is generally recommended that you replace your wiper blades every 6 months – 1 year, or when there are visible signs of wear.
Lights
Often we are now aware of problems with our lights until someone points it out to us. This isn’t an ideal situation, particularly in rain, snow, or worse fog.
Get someone to help you check all your lights including: signal lights, hazard lights, break, reverse, tail and fog lights.
Of course keep checking your oil and other fluid levels as the rest of the year, and keep an eye on the condition of your tires as they’re the only contact your vehicle has with the road!
If you need help making any of these checks, or discover problems that require professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.