Vehicle Maintenance Tips for Fall

As the leaves start falling and the air starts getting cooler, you may be thinking thoughts of pumpkin spice, caramel apples, and the coming holidays. But you should also be thinking about your vehicle. Now is the time that you need to tend to some important maintenance so that you can get your car ready for winter and make sure that you don’t find yourself stranded on the side of an icy road.

Here are a few vehicle maintenance tips you need to take care of this fall to prepare for the long winter months ahead:

Check the Heater and De-Icer

It’s going to get cold, no matter where you live. Obviously, it will get much colder in the winter if you live in Maine than it will if you live in Arizona. But temperatures will drop no matter where you live, and you will need a heater in your car. Don’t wait until the winter to find out it’s not working. The same goes for your de-icer. You will need it to quickly clear up your windows on those cold mornings. Get them both checked out now and make any necessary service.

Add Fuel De-Icer Monthly

You can also get ice in your fuel tank when the temperatures drop below a certain level. Any moisture that has built up in your fuel tank can turn into ice. Then you get ice in your fuel line, which can cause a lot of problems. Add a bottle of fuel de-icer to your tank each month to keep this from happening.

Check the Battery

Batteries are more prone to failure during the winter. Make sure that your battery is healthy now. You’ll need to take your vehicle to a service center to have the battery tested. Only a professional can determine whether the fluid is at the right level and how much life the battery has left in it.

Check the Tires and the Spare

Winter roads can become icy and snowy, which can make it hard for the tires to grip the road. If the tread on your tires is low, you will be in danger on the roads this winter. Check the tires now to make sure they have a healthy tread depth. Also check on your spare tire to make sure it’s ready to go in case of a flat.

Replace or Clean the Wipers

Visibility will often be reduced during the winter months. It will only be worse if you have old or dirty wipers that are leaving streaks on your windshield. Clean or replace your windshield wipers now to ensure you have a clear windshield.

Wash and Wax

Your vehicle is going to get a lot of snow, mud, and salt during the winter months. Wash it now so that you aren’t compounding the debris on your exterior. Wax your vehicle to give it a layer of protection against the winter elements.

Don’t try to do all the vehicle maintenance yourself this fall. Bring your vehicle into Tim’s Truck Capital to get full service. Our team will ensure that your vehicle is in top condition, both for this winter and for many winters beyond. We service all makes and models. Visit us today!

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