After a long Spring and Summer of taking your vehicle on countless road trips and vacations, it’s time to give it the proper care it deserves. Taking time to inspect and maintain your car after the wear and tear of the warmer months is crucial for a long and effective life. September and October are the perfect time for regularly scheduled, preventative maintenance that will keep your car in perfect shape for the Fall and Winter.
Preventive Maintenance for Fall
As the temperatures lower and the days get shorter, take it as a sign that you should be going through your car maintenance checklist for the Autumn. Our Red Bank, NJ, mechanics recommend you take the following steps for your Fall preventative maintenance schedule:
1. Check Your Bulbs
Proper illumination is necessary for the longer nights of Autumn, where visibility and signaling become extra crucial. Check that all your bulbs, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and signal lights, are functioning as they should. If any are dead or dying, be sure to replace them as soon as possible!
2. Check Fluid Levels
Regularly monitoring essential fluids like transmission, power steering, and windshield wiper fluid can prevent potential car troubles. If levels are below the recommended fill line, top them up or have our professional mechanics do the job for you.
3. Stay Up to Date on Oil Changes
Fresh engine oil optimizes your vehicle’s performance, ensuring that all moving parts run smoothly. Regular oil changes, based on manufacturer recommendations, can extend the life of your car, along with improving fuel efficiency.
4. Replace Your Tires
Tire treads wear down over time, reducing road grip, especially in wet conditions. September and October are when the seasons start to change, so it’s a good time to consider replacing tires, especially if they’re showing signs of wear.
5. Brake Maintenance
Brakes are crucial for safety. Double-check that your brake pads aren’t worn down and that the brake fluid is at an appropriate level. If you hear any squealing or feel any vibration while braking, it’s time for a checkup.
6. Inspect Your Battery
A vehicle’s battery is its heartbeat. As temperatures begin to drop, a weakened battery may struggle to start. Check the battery’s charge and inspect its connections – it should be fastened tightly and corrosion-free.
Preventative Maintenance for the Winter Months
It’s not too early to start preparing for even colder temperatures; as Fall fades to Winter, the demands on your vehicle change significantly. The dropping temperatures, icy roads, and potential snowfall introduce new challenges for both the driver and the car. Cooler temperatures are an indication to shift your focus toward winter-specific car care measures, providing another opportunity for scheduled car maintenance.
Here are some essential steps you can take to get your car winter-ready:
- Check Antifreeze Levels: Antifreeze helps prevent the engine from freezing in cold temperatures. Make sure antifreeze levels are adequate, and consider a cooling system flush if it’s been a while since the last service.
- Check and/or Replace Wipers: visibility can be life-and-death in wet and cold conditions. Inspect wiper blades for signs of wear or damage. If they’re leaving streaks or performing poorly, it might be time to replace them.
- Check Heating System: you don’t want to be freezing on your way to work during the Winter, so prioritizing a working heater and defroster is a major step for Winter preparation. Test both systems now to avoid any chilly surprises during winter.
- Clean Your Headlights: Winter means shorter days and longer nights. Cleaning foggy headlights can enhance visibility. Consider a headlight cleaning kit or professional service to clear up any haziness.
- Inspect Your Exhaust: monitor your exhaust system, listening for unusual noises and checking for holes or rust.
While these tips might seem overwhelming, most of these issues can be avoided by sticking to regularly scheduled maintenance. By routinely staying on top of your car’s upkeep, you’re helping to keep it on the road for as long as possible.
For further information on maintenance and other auto services, feel free to check out our Comprehensive Guide to Auto Repair Services, which details more of the work we perform at our shop. In addition to preventative maintenance, we also provide NJ Car Inspections, module programming, custom exhaust systems, and more. Speak with our trusted local mechanics today to see what we can do for you!
Schedule Preventive Maintenance at Bradley’s Auto Service Today
Contact Bradley’s Auto Service in Red Bank, NJ, to schedule preventative maintenance for your car today! Our ASE-certified mechanics have built a reputation for providing honest, professional auto services and have experience with all makes and models. Whether it’s the changing weather of Autumn, the dog days of Summer, or the dead cold of Winter, Bradley’s Auto Service in Red Bank, NJ, has you covered all year round!
