7 end-of-summer car care tips in time for fall car care month (part 1)

Did you know that October is Fall Car Care Month? You are probably just now wondering where did summer go? To make sure your car, truck, SUV or minivan stays safe and reliable throughout the upcoming fall and winter seasons, we've prepared seven essential end-of-summer car care tips. It's a good idea that while the weather is still pleasant to set aside a weekend afternoon to go over your vehicle's maintenance needs. By addressing these end-of-summer car care tasks now, you can drive the year's final months with confidence, knowing your ride is prepared for any holiday adventures that lie ahead. Here's a few fall car maintenance tips to keep you happily motoring as the season changes.

Check all your lights

The days are getting shorter which means all your various vehicle lights need to be up to muster. You need lights to see and be seen, especially when rain, snow and fog reduce visibility. Check that all lights are functional, including marker lights, turn signals, hazard lights, brake lights (including the center high mount brake light), reverse lights, taillights, headlights and fog lights. If you find any blown bulbs consider replacing the matching bulb on the other side at the same time, as it may not be far from going out as well. Generally headlights should be replaced in pairs. For interior lights you may even consider upgrading to LED bulbs for not only longevity but also a custom touch. If not equipped, perhaps now is a good time to think about installing aftermarket fog lights. Lastly if your headlight lenses are cloudy now is a good time to give them a good polish to clear things up.

Swap your wipers

A good guideline is to replace wiper blades every six months, but they may wear sooner. Now is a good time to replace any wiper blades that streak, chatter or don't clear the windshield properly. Make sure to use the correct length of wiper blade and don't forget the rear wiper if your SUV or van is so equipped. Don't forget to stock up on winter washer fluid, too. You might even consider applying a windshield coating to help shed any early frost.

Check your tires

Don't worry about snow tires yet, but check that your summer or all-season tires have at least 4/32 inches of tread depth remaining. Look for abnormal tread wear, which may indicate an alignment or suspension problem. It might also be time for a tire rotation to ensure even tire wear. Cooler weather causes tire pressure to drop, so inflate tires to the psi indicated by either the owner's manual or the tire and loading label on the driver's door jamb. If you have a spare tire pull it out and make sure it is aired up. You may need to refer to your owner's manual for the correct spare tire pressure as a donut spare may be different than the other tires.

See part two of this article in a future issue of The Loop newspaper.

For more information on diagnostic procedures, feel free to chat with one of Don's Pro Technology's knowledgeable service advisors or technicians with any concerns you may have. Don's Pro Technology Auto Repair is located at 230 E. Tehachapi Blvd., in Tehachapi and can be reached at (661) 822-1600.