October is Fall Car Care Month! Proper fall car care is an important part of preparing your car for the long Minnesota winter ahead. Winter is tough on your vehicle as is, so take care of any fall car maintenance you can before the snow falls.
Check Your Fluids
Fluids play a vital role in keeping your car functioning properly. They cool and lubricate the internal parts, keeping your vehicle safe to drive. The cold temperatures of winter can make your car’s fluids thicker and less effective, so it’s important to check them out in the fall—make sure they’re topped off and change them if needed.
While some fluids in your car will need a more professional examination, there are plenty that even beginners to car maintenance can handle. Check out our previous blog on the six essential fluids in your vehicle.
Get Your Battery Examined
Summer can do serious damage to your car battery, making autumn an ideal time to ensure it’s running smoothly. High temperatures weaken the charge and can accelerate battery failure, sometimes even more so than low temperatures. The last thing you want in the winter is to be stranded with a dead car, so pop the hood and take a look.
Check Your Tires
The dropping temperature also causes a decrease in your vehicle’s tire pressure. Maintaining good tire pressure is one of the easiest ways to make your tires last longer. You can find the ideal tire pressure for your car in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door.
While you’re inspecting that rubber, check for signs of wear. In addition to looking for any bulges and bald spots, you can perform the quarter test to check your tread depth.
Check Your Heater and Defroster
There’s nothing worse than getting into your car on the first truly cold day of autumn only to find your heater doesn’t work. After ignoring it all summer, make sure it, as well as your defroster, are functioning properly.
It’s also a good idea to check your windshield wiper blades. If you haven’t replaced the rubber in six months, it may be time to do so.
When it comes to fall car care, you can find the auto replacement parts and maintenance tools you need at Mimbach Fleet in Sauk Rapids, MN. With top-notch brands like Mag 1 and Northern Battery, we’ve got everything you need to get your car ready for the coming winter.
