Top 3 Fall Car Care Items: Why you need them on your To-Do List.
Fall car care might not be a top priority on your to-do list but it should be. We’ve compiled our top three recommendations for your list!
Tires
With this change in season comes a change in your tire needs. With huge temperature swings, you may see your TPMS dash light come on. Some TPMS monitoring systems are more sensitive than others, but don’t ignore that warning light as it will affect tire wear, performance and fuel economy! Have your tire pressures checked and adjusted accordingly. The recommended pressure is typically between 30 to 35 pounds but make sure you are using the proper inflation for your tires and vehicle. If your TPMS light remains on, there’s still an issue that should be corrected.
New York + Chautauqua County + November = rain and snow. The tread on your tires isn’t something you should overlook! It is important to make sure that your tires can grip the road so you can drive safely with proper handling on all road conditions. You can check tread depth yourself by putting a penny into the shallowest groove of your tire with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head that means it’s time to replace your tires. The legal limit for tread depth is 2/32, but if you want to get around in bad weather safely you’ll need more tread on those tires and a good aggressive tread pattern. Many of our customers have gone back to the “old” practice of having all-season tires AND Winter tires for better control and performance during snow season.
Battery
Due to cold weather, it takes more power for your battery to start working. Have a qualified repair shop test your battery and charging system to make sure that you’re ready for the season change. The Car Care Council has a great explanation, “Your car’s starting and charging system, and battery, help ensure dependable vehicle operation whenever you drive your car and in all sorts of driving conditions. The battery stores electrical energy and the starter converts that energy into mechanical force to turn the engine for starting.” Their Car Care Checklist recommends having your battery checked every 3 months or 3,000 miles. The average life of a car battery is generally 3-5 years; however, there are a number of factors that will affect battery life so consult a professional.
As a part of your battery service and testing, our technicians will perform a visual inspection of the battery, battery terminals, and check the date of manufacturer. Then a battery test will be performed using a load tester to see if the battery is performing properly. If your battery needs to be replaced, the proper battery for your vehicle will be installed, the terminal posts treated with dielectric grease, and following the installation of the cables a terminal protectant will be applied to prevent corrosion. There may still be warranty remaining on your old battery, so if you purchased the battery from us originally your Service Advisor will handle that transaction for you and properly recycle your old battery. Tip: Purchasing a new battery from a parts store does not always ensure that the battery is fully charged. Make sure you are not purchasing a discharged battery.
Visibility
You need to have a clear view of the road! Days are now much shorter and darker, so make sure your headlights aren’t clouded with age or have condensation inside. If you notice cloudy lenses and the deterioration has not gone too far, there is a quick and very simple 2-part headlight restoration process that first removes the film and then a second product seals/protects the lens. If the lens cannot be saved, the technician will recommend a replacement. You won’t believe the difference it makes in visibility at night!
Along with inspecting your headlights, we recommend you inspect and replace your windshield wipers every 6 months. If your wiper blades are cracked, cut, torn, streaking or chattering they need to be replaced. Check the level in your windshield washer fluid reservoir(s) monthly throughout the Fall/Winter seasons. Use only the proper washer fluid for the season and not water as it will freeze.
Our I-86 Truck & Auto Service Advisors can help you with all of these services for your own peace of mind. We always provide you with a complete estimate and will help you with recommendations for tires based on your driving habits and budget as well. Call 716-665-2501 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Request an appointment and find more on car care at www.i86autorepair.com.
Safe Driving!
I-86 Truck & Auto Repair
1739 Lindquist Drive
Falconer NY 14733
716-665-2501
www.i86autorepair.com