Do you have a car? Then you probably are preparing your vehicle for the cooling weather.
These tasks can range from an oil change and tire rotation to snow tire installation and engine coolant replacement.
Before the cooler weather hits, here are a few things you should do to ensure your fall goes as smoothly as possible for you and your car. Take it from Beck’s Auto Center, an auto repair shop in Lafayette, Indiana, with over 50 years of experience!
1) Wash the leaves out of your grille
Fall is a great time for your car to get a good washing and brush-off, but before you put the hose to it make sure you’ve removed any leaves that may be lodged in the grille.
Leaves can cause damage to your engine when they clog up the grille with dirt and debris. Use the vacuum hose attachment or a small leaf blower to clear out any debris.
This is an easy fix that you can do yourself and it can help prevent more serious, long-term issues.
2) Replace wiper blades
If your wiper blades are starting to show signs of wear, it’s a good idea to change them out with new ones.
Wiper blades can be a large contributor to visibility on the road and in inclement weather.
If you have any questions about what type of wiper blades would be best for your car, bring it into Beck’s Auto Center, your auto repair shop in Lafayette, IN, and we’ll take care of it for you!
3) Check tire pressure
It’s always a good idea to check your tire pressure in the fall before it gets too cold.
If you don’t have a tire gauge on hand, you have a couple of quick options:
- You can head to the nearest gas station where you typically can find one.
- If you are in town, we will gladly check your tire pressure!
4) Get an oil change
Oil changes are essential for your car’s engine because they help maintain the cleanliness and longevity of the motor. Oil is a lubricant that keeps everything in the engine working smoothly.
If you’re not sure when to have your next oil change, most cars call for one every 7,500 miles or six months, whichever comes first.
5) Have a battery check
This process will help you make sure your battery is in good shape, and it will also give you an idea of how much life it has left.
If the test shows that your battery needs to be replaced, get one before winter.
Cold temperatures are hard on batteries, so you want to be prepared! The last thing you want is to be stuck outside in frigid temperatures without a running car!
6) Fix any leaks
If you have any leaks around the engine, such as coolant or oil, be sure to fix them before temperatures drop below freezing. This can be done by replacing a clogged radiator cap or resealing a leaky head gasket.
Not sure if your vehicle needs leaks repaired? We are more than happy to take a look and advise you accordingly.
7) Start Now, Not Later
As we all know, winter can creep up on us sooner rather than later. Making sure your vehicle is prepped now while the weather is still sunny and clear can save a lot of energy and frustration!
Need an auto repair shop in Lafayette, IN to lend you their opinion and a helping hand?
Don’t hesitate to give Beck’s Auto Center a call at (765) 563-5455.