Is Your 4 Wheel Baby Ready For Fall?

Your vehicle made it through summer, but  like it or not ... winter's coming! Whether it's a matter of repairing the wear and tear of summer or getting ready for those colder days ahead, autumn is the ideal time for automotive maintenance and repair.


Here are some tips about getting your vehicle ready for winter.

  Read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's service intervals.

  Replace worn wiper blades and keep  washer fluid on hand to fight road salt, grit and other grime.

  Replace worn tires with all-season radials or snow tires, as conditions warrant. Don't forget to check the spare tire and the tire jack.

  If you are not a do-it-yourselfer, find a repair shop with a courteous staff, qualified technicians and modern equipment. Look for a reputable repair facility  to do those jobs you cannot or do not want to perform.

  Engine performance problems such as rough idling, poor acceleration or hard starts should be corrected before cold weather sets in. (This will help you  get better gasoline mileage.)

  Check the condition of your battery and cables, plus the radiator, and all hoses and belts.

  Flush your cooling system/radiator  and refill  as recommended. Be sure to check the level, condition and concentration of your  coolant/antifreeze periodically. (Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled!)

  Check your  heater and defroster to be sure they are in good working condition. Also  make sure your  exhaust system is free of any  leaks which could be  potentially deadly condition in closed vehicles.

  Make sure you  carry emergency gear: flares, boots, gloves, ice scraper, high-energy snacks, a blanket, shovel, flashlight,  and a cell phone.