Preparing Your Car for Fall

     Fall weather is fast approaching, and as the seasons change, so do your vehicle's needs.  Heat, humidity and heavy traffic may have taken their toll during the summer months, but now is the perfect time to take advantage of the cooler temperatures by giving your car some attention before the cold snap hits.  Whether you're heading back to school, tailgating at the stadium or just taking a leisurely drive to enjoy the changing leaves, we recommend tackling a few simple fall  care maintenance tasks before setting out, in order to keep your car running smoothly as the mercury begins to drop.
     Shocks and Struts: Check annually and replace them if you experience bouncing, nose dives or excessive body sway when cornering.  If worn, they could jeopordize your ability to stop, steer and maintain stability. 
     Oil and Filter: Check the oil level at every fill-up and change it, along with the oil filter, as specified in your owner's manual.  Consider a synthetic for your next oil change, as it has been proven to lat longr, provide superior cold-temperature performance and remove more deposits than conventional motor oil.
     Battery:  Battery efficiency drops off drastically in cold weather and there are rarely and signs before failure occurs.  Avoid getting stranded and the high cost of towing by having your battery checked free of charge at any of our locations to ensure optimal performance. 
     Brakes: Because they are a normal wear item for any vehicle, plan ahead and anticipate a replacement before they become an expensive problem.  Have the system checked by a qualified technician immediately if you notice dragging, squaling, grinding, pulling or a pulsating brake pedal.
     Wipers and Lighting: Begin a routine to check wiper blades for cracks and wear, and replace them immediately if streaking, skipping or smearing occurs.  It is also imperative that hazard lights, headlights, brake lights and turn signals are working properly, for your benefit as well as the safety of others.
     Belts and Hoses:  Check and replace belts that appear to be frayed, glazed or cracked, and hoses that are leaking, brittle, rusted, swollen or restricted.  If you suspect that the belt is loose, press down on it with your thumb; if it gives more than half an inch, it needs to be tightened.
     Fluid Levels: Check all fluids regularly, including brake, power steering, transmission and antifreeze.  These fluids help to neutralize internal corrosion, remove debris that may have accumulated and keep the vehicle's temperature within normal range.
     The crisp days of fall offer an excellent opportunity to focus on preventive maintenance for your vehicle.  Our seasonal recommendations will help to prepare your car for the months ahead, so add a few minutes to your fall car routine and make sure it's ready before the cold sets in.  Doing so will help it run better, last longer and retain its value, while providing safe and reliable transportation for you and your family.

The Daily News; September 17, 2009.