The winter snow is not here quite yet, which means there is still plenty of driving to do this season. Before you are stuck inside for the winter, be sure you take full advantage of our beautiful and ambient fall Indiana weather. But be sure you also take good care of your vehicle so that it remains a safe and reliable means of transportation for you all season long.
Continue reading to review your car care checklist for fall, and who to call for new and used auto parts, towing, body shop work, or 24 hour roadside assistance in Indianapolis.
Automotive Maintenance Checklist for Fall Driving
Use these bullet points and tips in accordance with your vehicle’s owners’ manual instructions to ensure your car is ready to hit the pavement, safely and efficiently. After all, you don’t want a fuel leak or breakdown to get in the way of your Fall fun!
Heating and Cooling
Although the fall is known for cooler temperatures, here in Indiana, you never know when a hot front might come in. Be sure that both your heating and cooling systems are functional and working optimally, for season-long comfort.
Windshield Wipers
Your windshield in the front and rear should have functional wipers. Check them out and be sure they are quality products. Also check that your car has plenty of windshield wiper fluid for as-needed cleaning and visibility.
Vehicle Lights
Both interior and exterior vehicular lighting should be perfectly functional. This includes interior lights like overhead lights, visor lights, and trunk lights, as well as, exterior lights, such as parking lights, hazards, brake lights, brights, turn signals, and more.
Brakes
Your car brakes are the most important for both safety and property damage protection. Have them inspection if you suspect that they are functioning less than manufacturer standards.
Tires
Tires should have proper air pressure, at around 45 or 50 psi. They should also be routinely balanced and rotated for optimal driving and fuel efficiency. Also be sure your spare tire is in good condition, and replace it if necessary.
Automotive Fluids
We already mentioned windshield wiper fluid, but be sure the remaining 6 vital automotive fluids are filled and replaced as needed. This includes motor oil, brake fluid, battery fluid, transmission fluid, radiator fluid (coolant), and power steering fluid. Also be sure your gas tank is filled!
Filters and More
Your car’s filters should be replaced on a routine basis, as instructed by the auto manufacturer. This includes air filters, fuel filters, and transmission filters.
Be sure your car battery is charged and ready to go, especially if you are setting out on a long-distance road trip. Remember, cooler temperatures can affect your battery’s condition and overall performance.
Have your vehicle’s exhaust system inspected for any damage or carbon monoxide leaks. With the windows typically closed in a car during fall, a CO2 leak can be especially dangerous.
Equip your car with essential tools and supplies, such as the spare tire mentioned before. Other handy tools include an ice scraper, emergency roadside kit, tire pressure gauge, and jumper cables.
Towing, Auto Parts, Body Shop and More in Central Indiana
Call Zore’s Inc. at 317-247-8484 for auto parts, body shop work, and more in Indianapolis, Indiana. We provide a wide variety of community services for all of Central Indiana, including towing and recovery, roadside assistance, new and used auto parts, metal recycling services, auto salvaging, property management, and much more. We operate on a 24 hour basis, 7 days a week and 365 days a year, so we can always be there for you no matter what time or day you need us! And as a fully-certified and licensed company, you can expect prompt and professional service you can trust.