11/02/2020
Temperatures have cooled off and unpredictable fall weather is upon us..... So if your car is in need of auto repair, you should take advantage of the remaining favorable conditions and bring your car in, to get that maintenance taken care of.
In order to be better prepared for winter weather, weâve put together a car maintenance checklist for you to follow, for this fall.
Even if you know your way around a vehicle, you may not want or have the time to tackle all of the things on the list yourself. So make an appointment today so our auto repair experts can take care of any or all of your seasonal concerns. Whether you require repair services or need maintenance, we can help get your vehicle in tip-top shape for fall and winter.
Hereâs the essential checklist you should follow:
Change Your Wiper Blades
Since you use your wiper blades the most in the fall and winter months, you should replace them on a yearly basis, preferably in the fall. Although many blades are easy to replace and are fairly inexpensive, different cars and models have certain specifications for blade size. This can be confusing if you arenât sure which blades to purchase. If you have any questions or want to add it on to your regular auto repair service routine, weâll be happy to change out your blades for you.
Check Your Tires
Sudden changes in temperature can cause your pressure gauge to act up unnecessarily, but you should still check your tires regularly as the weather turns colder. Be sure to check your spare tire for proper inflation, too. And if youâre thinking about getting a tire rotation (which should typically be performed every 7,500 miles) or making the switch to snow tires, be sure to make that maintenance appointment before those first flakes fall.
Top Off Fluid Levels
To combat the cold, you should replace your windshield washer fluid with a specific solvent that may or may not contain antifreeze. Speaking of antifreeze, you should check those levels in the coolant reservoir, too. If itâs low, top off that fluid in the reservoir (and make sure it matches with the kind thatâs currently there). You should also check your brake fluid reservoir levels. If you have questions about the proper levels or suspect a leak, come in to see us right away.
Check for Battery Problems
We put more demands on our cars in cold weather. What might have seemed like a little issue back in the summertime could quickly result in a dead battery in the winter. If you notice your lights are dimmer, or you hear an odd sound when you start your car, a dying battery may be to blame. By choosing the right auto repair shop to replace that battery, youâre guaranteeing that you wonât be left out in the cold.
Feel the Heat
Youâll most likely need your heating system at some point this winter, even if you spend your time in a warm climate. Be sure to check the functionality of your vehicleâs heater before you actually need it. If you see signs of a coolant leak on the floor or have leaves or debris in the ducts, you might experience a heating issue. If you canât seem to get warm when you turn on the heat, bring your car in for a check-up.
Stay safe everyone this winter and if you have any vehicle needs or questions don't hesitate to stop in or call. 804-931-1410 or 804-526-5647.
Happy Holidays!!