Stratford Auto Repair

It's September, which means fall is here in Stratford, NJ. With the seasonal changes, it's time to run through a car maintenance checklist to ensure you're ready for the chilly season.

Having your vehicle inspected during the autumn months may feel like a drag, but it will save you a headache when the temperatures drop and winter hits. Here are six preventative maintenance tips to prepare your car for the autumn:

#1: Check Your Battery

Have you ever had a vehicle battery drain during the winter? It's a common phenomenon in the north. In the colder months, vehicle batteries experience heavy wear and tear. All you need is a quick check-up (and possible battery replacement) to ensure you won't be stranded with a dead battery.

#2: Make Sure the Defroster & Heater Works

With winter around a few months, we have to prepare for the worst. It's uncomfortable and unsafe to drive in wet conditions and especially freezing conditions. At the start of the fall season, please make sure that your heater works properly before the cold weather comes around. Checking the defroster is equally as vital, too — don't wait until winter when you get up for work, and the morning frost won't clear your windshield.

#3: Check Fluids

It would help if you frequently inspected your fluid levels, no matter what season. Run a checklist for the following: 

• Engine oil
• Power steering fluids
• Brake and transmission fluids
• Windshield washer fluid
• Antifreeze

#4: Examine Quality of Wipers

Most people neglect their wipers all around because they don't directly affect our car's performance. However, durable winter wiper blades are needed to combat the falls and winters in Jersey. 

#5: Inspect Your Brakes

As mentioned before, you need to have sufficient brakes to prepare for the rain or snow that may come soon. It's better to repair or replace your brake pads sooner than later to avoid a slippery situation.

#6: Examine Tires

Checking tires is essential heading into the chillier weather. When inspecting your tires, check for tread and tire pressure. If there are any signs of uneven wear, you may need a wheel alignment. Any bulges and bald spots could indicate that you need to replace your tires altogether, which is best done before winter.

Are you ready for your autumn tune-up? Cut the stress of figuring it out on your own and leave it to our professional team at Desi Auto Care. Give us a call or visit today for all your automotive needs!