This is how it begins: It is foggy and cool in the morning, and you catch yourself thinking about the upcoming fall and winter. For an automotive enthusiast, the season begins even sooner: a windshield bug remover is about to be replaced with a snow brush as we’re looking forward to the holiday season and maybe a few winter storms.
Let There Be Light
If you want to be safe on the road in autumn, you must be visible and able to see in hazardous weather conditions. It is therefore important to check that the headlights, indicators, fog lights, and auxiliary lighting are working properly.
Battery Test
In the colder season of the year, the battery is particularly stressed. Check your car battery to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the road. You can do so yourself with a multimeter or a manual check: Turn your headlights on and rev the engine. If the headlights remain unaffected by it, you are probably fine. If they dim or even get brighter – that is a reason for a professional checkup as you might be running out of battery, or the idle mode is not enough to charge it anymore (read: will run out of battery soon).
Tires for Your Lifestyle
If you don’t plan on leaving your house when a snowstorm hits, you are just fine with multi-season tires, as long as they are over 2/32”. But if your job requires traveling in any conditions or if you just love a good ride in the snow, you will need winter tires or chains.
Wipers and Washer Fluid
With streaks on the windshield, driving becomes a danger. That is why fall is also the time when it is best to replace the wiper blades and the windshield washer fluid.
Oil Change
It used to be customary to replace oil every 3,000 miles but as progress moves forward, we are up to 5,000-7,500 and sometimes even more – up to 15,000 miles! Know what your car requires, and be consistent with checkups and change because clean oil means clean engine, and what’s more important than that?
Antifreeze
This comes without saying, you will need to top off your antifreeze. Just remember – different colors of antifreeze are created for different cars for a reason. Never mix two colors – this might cause blockages that lead to engine overheating. If you are unsure about the color or the procedure, we’ll be happy to help you!
Fall Cleaning and Supplies
You’ll probably want to remove the bug stains off your car as the seasons change. Be extra careful doing that not to scratch the glass or paint.
It is better to be safe than sorry – that’s why it’s best to check your supplies for winter: you’ll need warm gloves, defroster, ice scraper, snow brush, anti-fog cloth, jump starter, blankets, bottled water, flashlight, and batteries. Reflective warning signs, a first aid kit, and a multi-tool will make you ready for anything.
JD’s Auto Restoration Center Philadelphia
If you are a true auto lover, taking care of your vehicle is probably a pleasant chore. If you just want your car to take you places reliably, we can understand that and will take care of it for you with great attention and care. We perform routine inspections and repairs, as well as high-level restoration and bodywork. We’d be happy to see you at JD’s Auto Restoration Center this fall or any other time of the year. If you have any questions, feel free to call us at (215) 938-9270.
