Fall comes with cold weather, which can take a toll on your car. Although fall isn't as hard on your vehicle as the winter can be, carrying out essential maintenance will protect it from unforeseen damage and guarantee safe, comfortable rides throughout the season. Here are a few tasks to schedule with your mechanic as the season progresses.

What Are Some Essential Fall Auto Maintenance Tasks?

1. Check Fluid Levels

Your car relies on several fluids to run smoothly and offer you maximum comfort and visibility while driving. Most drivers need to change their oil every 3,000 miles or twice a year. Since oil collects dirt and impurities as it circulates through your engine, it becomes less effective at reducing friction and heat, so change it before the winter arrives.

While you're under the hood, refill the windshield wiper fluid reservoir. Other fluids, such as transmission, brake, and power steering fluids, are contained in closed systems, so have a mechanic inspect them.

2. Schedule Tire Maintenance

Ice, frost, and snow reduce tires' traction on the road and increase the risk of accidents, particularly when tires are already worn. Fall is the best time to check your tires for tread depth and damage so that you're prepared for cold weather. For every 10-degree drop in temperature, tires lose pressure at a rate of around one pound per square inch.

Keep a tire pressure gauge in your car and check your tires every two to four weeks to ensure that they're sufficiently inflated. Since the tires mounted on the car’s powered axle experience wear at a greater rate than the other wheels, fall is also an excellent time to have a professional rotate your tires to ensure even wear.

3. Assemble Cold Weather Gear

Waiting for a tow truck in the cold can be uncomfortable and risky. To address minor repair issues and stay warm, gather a few essential items and store them in your car. In addition to jumper cables and a flashlight with spare batteries, pack a warm, lightweight jacket and gloves. It's also helpful to keep bottled water and nonperishable snacks, such as nuts and dried fruit.

If you need help with auto maintenance this fall, turn to Cabarrus Import Service in Concord, NC. Serving drivers since 1994, they have the necessary experience and equipment to carry out everything from brake repairs to comprehensive auto inspections. Call (704) 793-4122 to schedule an appointment with a mechanic, and visit their website to review their full range of services.