Fall isn’t just for pumpkin-flavored treats and sweaters – it’s also the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for winter driving. That’s why October is Fall Car Care Month! Preparing your vehicle for the harsh winter conditions in advance means you won’t be left worrying about your vehicle when the first snowstorm hits. To celebrate the season, we’ve put together a list of 10 Fall Car Care Tips that can help you take care of your vehicle this fall.
1. Check your battery.
Now is a good time to look your battery over for signs of wear or corrosion, and check when it was installed. How long your battery lasts will depend on many factors, from weather conditions to how often you drive, but generally they last for 2 to 4 years. Your neighborhood Chicagoland Jiffy Lube® can test your battery for you to see if it is still functioning correctly, or if it needs to be replaced.
2. Check all of your fluids.
This includes engine oil, power steering, brake and transmission, as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
3. Take a look at your tires.
When was the last time you had your tires inspected, rotated, and balanced? If you can’t remember, chances are you need to have it done. Having these maintenance tasks completed on your vehicle helps prolong the life of your tires and your suspension, and ensures that your tires have enough tread depth to keep optimum grip on the road during inclement weather.
4. Look at your hoses and belts.
While you may not know exactly what you are looking at, a quick visual inspection of your belts and hoses can tell you a lot about your vehicle wear and tear. The process is simple: look for any hoses or belts that are cracked, brittle, frayed, loose, or showing signs of excessive wear.
5. Check your wiper blades.
Worn wipers won’t clear your windshield as efficiently, which may leave you with reduced visibility during rain or snow. If your blades are cracked, torn, or leave streaks on your windshield, it’s time to have them replaced.
6. Listen to your vehicle.
Have you noticed a change in the way your vehicle sounds lately? Leaks or damage to your exhaust system can make your vehicle sound louder, or produce other unusual noises.
7. Have your brakes inspected.
While your brakes don’t need to be replaced very often, it is important to have them inspected about twice per year. This way you’ll be able to have confidence that when you need to stop, especially in sudden situations, your brakes will work correctly and help avoid any issues on the road.
8. Pay attention to how your vehicle handles.
Changes in the way your vehicle handles on the road can indicate issues with the steering and suspension system. This can include shock absorbers, struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, and other related components.
9. Check for burned-out light bulbs.
The lights on your vehicle aren’t just for you to see in the dark – they also help to keep other drivers aware of your vehicle while you’re out on the road. Take a walk around your vehicle while it is running to check for any burned out light bulbs. This way you know that when you use your blinker or brake, other drivers will be aware.
10. Don’t neglect your regular oil changes.
Did you know that something as simple as a regular oil change can help prolong the life of your vehicle? That’s because going too long between oil changes can lead to harmful build-up in your engine as the oil degrades. You can count on our Signature Service® oil change to not only keep your oil clean, but also help keep your engine running its best for as long as possible.
We hope this list has helped you to learn about the different ways you can prepare your vehicle for winter driving. Remember that your neighborhood Chicagoland Jiffy Lube® is here to help you ensure your vehicle is safe when on the road during inclement weather! From oil changes to tire services at participating locations, you can count on us to keep your vehicle running smoothly all winter long.
Jiffy Lube® recommends following manufacturer recommendations, where applicable, for maintenance schedules and service intervals.
Not all services are offered at each Jiffy Lube® location. Please check with your local Jiffy Lube® service center for specific services offered.