Autumn Auto Advice: Prepping Your Car for the Fall Season
As the final days of summer give way to refreshing fall weather, football games, pumpkin patches, and colorful autumn leaves are just around the corner. But as any seasoned Iowan will tell you, with the beauty of fall comes a fresh set of challenges for our trusty vehicles. Here are some tips to ensure your car is as ready for the season as you are:
1. Changing Wiper Blades
As we look forward to early morning frosts and the occasional fall drizzle, now is a great time to make sure your wipers are in tip-top shape. Inspect your wiper blades for any dirt or damage, and use a damp rag to wipe off any debris. If you notice streaking or squeaking when using them, replace your wiper blades with a fresh set.
2. Checking Tire Tread and Pressure
Fall roads can be slick with wet leaves and early frosts, so it’s important to check the tread depth of your tires to ensure safe grip on your drives. A simple way to check this is the penny test: Insert a penny into your tire's tread groove with Lincoln's head upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln's head, it's time to replace that tire. Tire pressure can also be affected by changes in moisture and temperature, so make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended PSI.
3. Check the Heating System
Imagine heading off on a chilly morning only to realize your heater is on strike! Test your heating system before you’re stuck in a cold car on your way to work. If you notice it takes too long to warm up or isn't producing enough heat, it might be time for a check-up.
4. Battery Health Check
Cold weather can be hard on batteries. It's a good idea to have your battery tested to ensure it's holding a charge properly. Nothing's more frustrating than a car that won't start!
5. Emergency Kit Update
While it’s not winter yet, fall can surprise us with sudden changes in weather. Update your car's emergency kit with blankets, a flashlight, some non-perishable snacks, water, and a first-aid kit.
6. Brakes Inspection
Wet roads and leaves can cause slippery driving conditions. Ensure your brakes are responsive and free from any wear or tear, and have a mechanic do a quick inspection for peace of mind.
Whether you're off to tailgate at a Hawkeyes game, enjoy a scenic drive through the hills, or heading out to enjoy some apple cider at a local orchard, a well-prepared car ensures you get there comfortably and safely. So, here's to fall in Iowa, a time of transition, beauty, and cooler days. Let's welcome it with open arms and well-maintained cars!
When in the market for a used car, stop by Carousel Preowned. Carousel Preowned serving Iowa City, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, North Liberty, Marion, and Coralville, IA, is proud to be an automotive leader in our community. We do our best to ensure your complete satisfaction every time you step into our car dealership. This is why we offer the widest selection of used and pre-owned cars, trucks, and SUVs and provide true ease of purchase in Iowa.