Fall Auto Maintenance Checklist

Autumn is a great time to get your vehicle ready for the weather changes ahead.  Unless you live in San Diego, where our actual "winter" weather doesn't show up until February.  So, for our San Diego Fall auto maintenance checklist we have some items that should be checked every 6 months as well as some preparatory items for those rainy days that we might see.
Check Tire Condition:
Start with a visual inspection to check for wear and damage.  Get yourself a tire pressure gauge if you do not have one already.  Tires tend to lose pressure when the temperature drops and you'll want to be able to check the tire pressure bi-weekly.  If you did a lot of summer vacations without rotating your tires, now is the time!  When checking for tread depth, take a penny and put Lincoln's head down in between the tread, if you can see his head it's time for new tires.  Check the tire walls to make sure that the cords are not showing, another sign that tires are needed.

Check Your Fluid Levels:
The fluids of your vehicle are used to lubricate and control temperature.  So it is very important to check their level and condition periodically (monthly if possible).  The engine oil is used to lubricate your engine internally, while the antifreeze helps the engine maintain proper temperature.  Over the hot months, it is common for the antifreeze to evaporate or become diluted.  Let's not forget about the windshield wiper fluid as well.  The wiper fluid tends to get forgotten, but it aids with the most important part of driving; being able to see!!  

Check the Heater and Defroster:
The nights and mornings are starting to cool down and lets face it, it's been at least 6 months since you've had to use your heater function.  The defroster also plays an important role with be able to see, so ensuring it's functionality before you actually need it is highly recommended. 

Emergency Kit:
It's time to check your emergency kit and replace or restock anything that has been used up over the past 6 months.

Replace Your Wiper Blades:
If we just so happen to get rain or you need to wipe the washer fluid to clean your window you are going to need a nice set of wiper blades.  When checking the condition of your wiper blades check for any tearing or cracks.  If it's been all summer since your blades have been replaced, just put a new set on.  The summer sun here in San Diego is intense and rots the rubber away.

We are always here to help.  You can have us perform our 55-pt inspection, which includes all of the above and then some!  

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