Fall Checklist for Drivers in San Diego

Oh the change of the seasons...leaves changing colors, pumpkin spice hits the coffee shops, Holiday decorations start to decorate lawns, and a little cooler temperatures here in San Diego.  If you have lived in southern California for any amount of time, you know that the Autumn Equinox doesn't really mean much different driving conditions for us.  We still see 90 degree days Inland and will probably not see much rainfall until the start of winter.  This day of change and balance is a good time to remember all the things that we were too busy enjoying summer to do or check.  Along with the kids going back to school, deep cleaning the house, maybe switching out some of your wardrobe, we also should make a checklist for our vehicle.  The summer rays and high temps can really do a number on the rubber components (well, really a lot of components) of your car.  Here are some things that we recommend taking the time to check on if it's been a while:

• Check the Battery:  One way for you to check your battery is to examine the connections.  If there is any calcium build up, use a wire brush to clean them off.  Check for the date on the battery to make sure that it's not nearing it's life span and will leave you stranded. 
• Tires:  Take a walk around your vehicle and examine all of your tires, including the spare!  Check and correct tire pressure, examine the side walls for cracks or bulges, measure the tread and wear patterns.  
• Fluids:  Give all your fluids a quick check.  Making sure that they are at optimum level.  If you need to, look back at old repair orders to see when the last fluid exchanges were done and if they are needed.  This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, power steering/brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
• Windshield Wipers:  I don't know about your vehicle but with mine the summer sun ALWAYS dry's out my wiper blades.  More times than not you will need to get them replaced and what better time than now before you really need them.  The rubber will be cracked/torn or hard as a sign that it's time for replacement.
• All Lights:  You might need a partner in crime for this one.  Have someone sit in the drivers seat while you walk around the vehicle.  First stopping in front of your vehicle, have the person turn on the headlights, high beams and both turn signals.  Now go to the rear and have the person do the same, plus push on the brake pedal.  Check both rear tail lights and the third brake light if you have one.  This bullet point is very important as we start to commute more in the dark with our days becoming shorter and shorter, we need to be seen!  

If you would like us to do the dirty work for you we offer a 55-Pt vehicle inspection that includes all of the above and then some!  Give us a call today to schedule your appointment or for any questions you might have.  We are here for you!!!
619-562-3933

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