October is Fall Car Care month. So what better time is there to make sure your car is prepared for the upcoming change in weather? Taking a few simple steps now can save you the headaches– and cost – of an emergency breakdown later.
Whether you choose to do it yourself or take your car to a certified mechanic either at a Delaware Ford dealership or shop, here are five proactive steps you can take to make sure your car is ready for the upcoming winter months.
1.Battery
Cold weather is very hard on batteries, so it’s a great idea to check the battery and charging system. Check to make sure the battery connections are clean, tight and corrosion-free. A good rule of thumb is to replace the battery if it is older than four years, especially since they don’t always give any sign that they are dying. Additionally, older batteries tend to not work so well in cold weather. When in doubt, replace it.
2. Heater and Defrosters
Along with falling leaves comes a fall in the temperature. The cooler days and evenings of Fall are the perfect time to ensure that your car’s heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system is working properly, as well as the defrosters. Make sure to check the air filters, and replace if they are dirty.
3. Wiper Blades
Along with the change in temperature comes inclement weather. Making sure your car’s wiper blades are in good condition can make all the difference when it comes to driving safely. As a general rule, wiper blades should be replaced every six months. Wipers that no longer clear the window, or show signs of cracking or tearing should be replaced. Fortunately wiper blades are generally inexpensive, usually between $10 to $20, and replacing them is easy and requires no tools. Just remember that some cars will require same-sized blades for the driver and passenger sides, while others will require a longer blade for the driver-side wiper. And if you have an SUV or wagon, don’t forget the rear window blade as well. While checking and/or changing the blades, be sure you also check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir.
Discover the rest of the 5 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Fall here.