Fall is in full swing and there really is no better time to get your vehicle in tip-top shape before the winter weather hits. Everybody loves fall. The weather is perfect, not too hot, not too cold…aka the best time to service your vehicle! In fact, October is Car Care Month, and we want to help get yours in the service mood! We know that service isn’t always everyone’s favorite part of owning a vehicle, but that’s why we have certified professionals that are eager to do the hard work for you! Our team wants to help you by accommodating you and your vehicle needs. We know how frustrating it is to have your vehicle out of commission, but here at Loughead Nissan, we vow to service your ride in a fast and efficient manner, regardless if it’s a big or small task. 

However, we know a lot of our customers are avid car fans and know their way around their vehicle’s guts. If you’re a DIY fan, we want to help make sure that you have the right tools to get your vehicle in tip-top shape for the winter months ahead. Below you will find 5 tips for your fall car maintenance checklist. We want to make sure you’re thorough with your maintenance so we highlighted important sections of your vehicle that you should give a little more love to. If you have any questions or decided that you just don’t have time to do all this maintenance yourself, just head over to our site to schedule a service appointment for whenever it is most convenient for you! 

5 Tips For Fall Car Care: 

Check Your Tires:

• Check tire tread depth
• Look for any signs of wear and tear such as bulges and bald spots
• Check the tire pressure, and adjust it accordingly using the PSI listed in your owner’s manual or driver’s side door-jam
• Tire pressure drops when the temperatures drop, so keep a regular schedule of tire pressure maintenance

Inspect The Battery: 

• Check the battery connections to make sure they’re tight, clean and free of corrosion
• Harsh winter weather can be hard on a vehicle battery, so you want to check the battery and charging system before the cold sets in

Check Wiper Blades, Defrosters, and Heater:

• Checking your cooling and heating system is important for your comfort, but it’s also important for your safety, too. Visibility could be hindered in the winter month due to frost, ice, snow, and other elements. 
• Making sure your defroster is working, your wiper blades don’t have any cracks or are leaving streaks across your windshield
• Generally, wiper blades should be replaced every 6 months 
• Don’t forget the windshield wiper fluid! Most vehicles will warn you you’re running low but it is always a good idea to keep it recommended levels 

Have Your Brakes Checked:

• It’s no secret your breaks are important, but in the winter months, it’s important they’re in shape to take on the winter weather. 
• Make sure the brake pads/rotors don’t need to be replaced and have the brake line checked as well. 
• Our team is more than qualified to help give you peace of mind and repair any issues we may find

Check Your Lights: 

• Your vehicle’s lights tend to be overlooked, but as the days begin to grow darker sooner, your lights become extremely important
• Think about the last time you changed your headlights and taillights, if you can’t remember, chances are it’s time to change them! 
• If they’re still running smoothly, give them a good cleaning to create better visibility