Summer has swiftly drifted away and the time of year that the weather becomes questionable is settling in. Although being cautious while driving is critical, there are additional measures that should be taken to ensure safe driving through the fall months.
The following 10 tips will assist in getting your car equipped for the fall.
Tip #1: Maintain your brakes and tires. Hazardous road conditions can require the ability for your car to make a short stop easily. Adequate brakes and tires are essential. Our experts at Liberty Auto Center say you know when to get new tires when they have wear bars showing. Look into brake and tire repair shops in your area that will inspect the brakes and tires free of charge, as many of them do. Keep in mind, as the temperature decreases, as does the tire pressure. Make sure your tire level pressure remains at the suggested level of the vehicle manufacturer.
Tip #2: Test all your lights. Walk around the outside of the car and check the operation of all lights: headlights, tail lights, parking lights, brake lights and emergency flashers. Replace all broken bulbs and those that have stopped working. Make sure all lights are clean. If you own an older vehicle with sealed-beam headlamps, you might want to pony up for halogen lamps for improved visibility and safer driving.
Tip #3: Check the effectiveness of your heater/defroster. Driving without heat isn’t enjoyable. Not to mention, fogged up windows puts you, and everyone else on the road at a higher risk of becoming involved in an accident. Check both the front and rear defrosters and to ensure they are working properly. If not be sure to have them repaired.
Tip #4: Consider investing in new wiper blades. It isn’t uncommon for people to overlook the importance of new blades. It isn’t until weather conditions worsen and those worn out or cracked wiper blades are preventing you from seeing the road ahead, that people think about replacing them. Make sure your blades rubber is still flexible and test them out to be sure they are functioning correctly and completely cleaning the windshield. If not, is it time for new wiper blades to be replaced.
Tip #5: Make sure your battery is fully charged and functional. Have a trusted technician like ours here at Liberty Auto Center inspect the battery. If the technician suggests, or you happen to notice any type of corrosion or loose connections, it is a good idea to have it fixed if possible. If nothing can be done it is time for a new battery.
Tip #6: Inspect under the hood. Looking under the hood will allow you to identify any obvious signs of wear or items that need replacing or fixing. Look for leaks, cracks or loose clamps in the cooling system and squeeze the hoses and replace any that are spongy-feeling or brittle. Inspect the underside of drive belts for fraying and replace as required. If you’ve noticed any engine noises, experienced sputtering or other engine problems, have a licensed mechanic thoroughly inspect the engine and make any necessary repairs. The mechanics at our two Maryland locations in Rockville and Gaithersburg, are happy to help get your car prepared for the Fall.
Tip #7: Continue to monitor all fluid levels. Ensure the washer, transmission, brake, and power steering fluids are all above their minimum safe levels.
Tip #8: Keep an eye on your cooling system and refill accordingly. Our experts at Liberty Auto Centers suggest that when the engine is cold to check the coolant level in the overflow tank. Adding a 50/50 solution of water and coolant when the level is low will allow proper antifreeze capability. It may be necessary to refill the cooling system.
Tip #9: Change your oil and air filter. Oil does get dirty over time. If you notice dirty oil during
your next oil change, it may be a good time to change it. Also, in order for the air filter to work properly it needs to be clean. An easy way to find out if your air filter is clean enough, is to hold it up to a 60-watt bulb. If you are unable to see the light shining through, it is time for a new air filter.
Tip #10: Keep your vehicle clean. Although it may not seem like a top priority, giving your car a nice wash or detail will help you to notice any lurking issues.
With two Maryland locations in Rockville and Gaithersburg, Liberty Auto Center is here to help your vehicle say hello to Fall and the inclement weather that is on its way. The certified auto service technicians will provide a thorough maintenance check to provide you with confidence behind the wheel of your vehicle.
Tags: Fall Auto Maintenance, Gaithersburg MD, Rockville MD
