Prep Your Car for Winter During Car Care Month
October is Car Care Month, an ideal time to remind car owners to perform a vehicle checkup to maintain safety and maximize efficiency.
Prepare your vehicle for winter driving and identify items that may require additional maintenance. Whether you perform a checkup yourself or take your car to a repair shop, be sure to check the following:
Air Filter
Check the engine air filter by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If light can be seen through much of the filter, it is still clean enough to work effectively. However, if light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.
Battery
Summer heat can weaken a car battery to the point of failure during winter weather, so it’s a good idea to have your battery and charging system tested by a trained technician. Battery terminals and cable ends should also be free of corrosion and connections should be tight. Members can request service from AAA Mobile Battery Service and have their battery tested and replaced onsite, if necessary.
Brakes
If there is any indication of a brake problem, have the system inspected by a certified technician to ensure all components are in good working order.
Drive Belts & Engine Hoses
Inspect the underside of accessory drive belts for cracks or fraying. Many newer multi-rib “serpentine” belts are made of materials that do not show obvious signs of wear; replace these belts at 60,000-mile intervals. Inspect cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Squeeze the hoses and replace any that are brittle or have an excessively spongy feeling.
Fluids & Lights
Top off any fluids that are low – such as coolant, transmission, brake and power steering – and confirm all lights are working, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and back-up lights.
Tires
Replace any tire that has less than 3/32-inches of tread. Uneven tire wear can indicate alignment, wheel balance or suspension problems that must be addressed to prevent further damage. Test tire pressure frequently during fall and winter – as temperatures drop, so does tire pressure. Keep tires inflated to the PSI indicated on the driver’s side door jamb.
Wiper Blades
Blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace any blade that leaves streaks or misses spots.
Get started on your winter car prep early. Locate your nearest AAA Approved Auto Repair facility here.