The Phoenix area gets almost 300 days of sun each year on average. Combine that with year round warm temperatures and you have the main reason why many people like living here in Arizona. But, all that sun and Arizona’s hot summer temperatures can damage your vehicle without you even realizing it. That’s why Fall Car Care Month, which is celebrated annually in October, is especially important!
The summer vacations are over, the kids are back to school, and it’s time to take a closer look at what you may have put off all summer … preventative maintenance. Before the cooler winter temperatures set in, let’s look at some things that should get your attention during Fall Car Care Month.
How to Celebrate Fall Car Care Month
The absolute best way to participate in Fall Car Care Month is to schedule an appointment at your favorite auto repair shop. Your trusted mechanic can take a thorough look at your vehicle from top to bottom and make sure it’s ready for winter.
Here are some of the things they’ll check, along with some maintenance items you may even be able to check yourself:
- Belts and hoses – These parts are important for your vehicle’s functioning but are especially susceptible to cracking and deterioration when exposed to heat for long periods of time. Your mechanic will know exactly where to look and be able to tell if damaged belts and hoses can be repaired or if they need to be replaced.
- Vehicle fluids – You know how you can get dehydrated after some time in the hot summer sun? Imagine what happens to your vehicle’s fluids when they’re exposed to heat day in and day out. A vital part of fall car care includes checking fluid levels and topping them off as needed.
- Battery health – The heat of summer can negatively impact your car battery’s life. Schedule battery service to get a visual inspection, cleaning, and general assessment of your battery’s health.
- Brakes – We recommend a full brake inspection at least once a year to ensure proper functioning and safety. If you’ve neglected this, make sure this item is included in your fall car care list.
- Tires – As the temperature drops, you may notice a dashboard light come on that indicates low tire pressure. It’s important to make sure all tires are at the right pressure but you should also inspect for signs of excess wear. The hot Arizona summers can shorten your tires’ usable life and make them a safety concern going into winter.
- Wiper blades – Tires, belts, hoses, and batteries aren’t the only things that wear out faster in hot weather. Wiper blades do, too! If you notice tears in the rubber or if the wipers squeak or smear during use, it’s time for new ones.
Get Auto Repairs and Maintenance From the Experts
We know that you already have a lot on your mind every single day. Rather than worrying about fall car care and maintenance, why not leave that to the experts at Good Works Auto Repair?
We have highly trained automotive technicians who are ready to do the job. And, we have friendly service advisors waiting to help you get the car care you need at an affordable price. Simply give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!
