October is National Fall Car Care Month (try saying that three times fast) and it’s the perfect time to get your vehicle’s preventive maintenance routine in gear. Perhaps you didn’t use your vehicle as often this summer, or maybe you’ve been unintentionally putting off your car care. Here are five areas to focus on how to prepare for later.
Wiper Blades
A streaky windshield is the last thing you want to deal with when cold precipitation starts falling. Even if you’ve recently replaced your wiper blades, now is the best time to inspect them to make sure they’re winter-ready. Your wiper blades should never cause streaking, squeaking, or chattering. Don’t forget to check your windshield washer fluid levels and the condition of your rear wiper(s)!Tires
Tire pressure drops approximately one pound per square inch for every 10 degree drop in temperature. The recommended tire pressure for your vehicle is most commonly listed on a sticker on the inside of the driver’s door. It can also be found in the owner’s manual. Tire pressure and tread depth can affect how your vehicle handles, so before the roads turn slick and wet, check for these warning signs as an indicator that your tires may need rotated or possibly replaced.Battery
According to AAA, 65% of American drivers say they have never had their car battery tested prior to their vehicle failing to start. We know the last thing you want to deal with is a dead battery on a cold morning. Visually inspect your battery and make sure the connection is clean, tight, and corrosion-free. If your battery has reached three years of age, you should have it tested at your local Jiffy Lube of Indiana store. Our Battery Diagnostic Service includes testing the:- Cold-cranking amps of the battery
- Electrical draw of the starter
- The electrical output of the alternator