Car Care Month Maintenance Tips to Follow
October has been designated as Car Care Month.
Cooler weather on the horizon means it’s time to do some special tasks to make sure your car is ready for all that fall and winter bring.
If you aren’t quite sure what kind of maintenance work your vehicle needs in the fall, you’re in luck!
Check out this list of what your trusted mechanic will be looking for when he gives your car its autumn checkup!
Go with what you know
Your car has a lot of fluids and you need to have them all checked!
These include:
- Oil.
- Power steering fluid.
- Transmission fluid.
- Windshield washer fluid.
- Antifreeze and coolants.
Battery
You don’t want to be caught (literally!) out in the cold with a dead battery.
The connection should be clean, tight, and free of any corrosion.
It’s always best to err on the side of caution and replace the battery if there’s any chance it may be failing.
Hoses and belts
Your hoses and belts shouldn’t show any sign of excessive wear, such as cracks, fraying, or brittleness
They’ll need to be tightened up if they’re loose, too.
Exhaust system
Your mechanic will be looking for leaks, rust, or damaged or broken hangers or supports.
If a leak would happen to be detected, it would need attention right away.
Brakes
Your brakes and brake components should get a thorough inspection at least once a year and scheduling it during Car Care Month is a great way to remember!
Drums, rotors, and pads should be changed if they’re excessively worn.
Steering and suspension
This is another of your vehicle’s systems that needs an annual inspection.
Your mechanic will be looking at struts, shocks, tie rod ends, and ball joints, among other components.
HVAC
Not only will a malfunctioning heater make for a chilly commute, a defroster that doesn’t work can be a hazard to your safety.
It’s important to have your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems examined before the weather gets truly cold.
Lights
When fall hits, the hours of daylight get shorter and the hours during which you need to use your headlights get longer.
Your Car Care Month activities should include a check to make sure your headlights, turn signals, tail lights, and brake lights.
Put Car Care Month inspections on your calendar
Make it a habit to have your car thoroughly serviced each year during October.
Doing so will make it easier to remember.
Keep in mind that regular maintenance will lengthen the life of your vehicle, saving you money in the long run!
At Conrad’s, we’re ready and waiting to make an appointment for you! Call us today!
