October is… National Fall Car Care Month

 This is the perfect time to give your vehicle a little attention!

Living in Phoenix, our vehicles don't need as much winter care as those in our northern cities or those in the northern US states. But… if you will be traveling to those areas you need to be prepared.

9 Tips to get the MOST out of Fall Car Care Month!

1. Get an oil change: Not only is it good practice to get an oil change when you're going into the fall and winter, but it's essential to keep up with your routine service all year to get the best out of your vehicle.
2. Wiper blades: Whether it's rain, sleet or snow that ends up on your windshield, your wipers need some attention. Before the weather of the season arrives, check your blades. The heat we experience throughout the summer in Arizona can dry out our wipers quicker thicker than usual. Don't wait until it rains or snows to find out your blades need to be replaced.
3. Change your cabin air filter: You should change your cabin air filter for two reasons. If you have allergies in the fall, replacing your cabin air filter can help – when your cabin air filter is clogged with dirt and debris from our summer monsoons, it doesn't as effectively filter out allergens like pollen, dirt, and dust.
4. Check your tires: Road trips for the holidays will soon be underway. Don't wait until you've packed the car to leave before you check your tires. An inspection is needed to make sure you don't have any unseen issues that could cause a bigger problem or accident. Look for nails or other objects, cracks or tears and low tread. You want to have the inspection before you pack the car so that your spare can also be inspected. You don't want to find out it's too old or has any issues just in case it's needed.
5. Brake check: Fall is the perfect time to check your brakes. Did you know that brake wear and tear tend to increase in the winter months? We have more traffic on the road when our friends from the north are here to enjoy our great fall/winter weather. More traffic means we are breaking more as we are stopping and starting more often which can wear brakes out faster. Depending on how often you brake or how aggressive of a driver you are, brakes can wear out quickly, and even excessive friction and heat from the long summer can cause cracks to form. If you've noticed any squeaking, grinding, or squealing, it's time to get your brakes checked and replaced before the winter.
6. Get an alignment: In Phoenix, we have several different terrains to drive on, concrete, asphalt, dirt, and rocks. We even hit a pothole now and then that can make you cringe!On top of doing your best to slow down and avoid these hazards, you should also get an alignment check in the fall. It's the perfect time when you are having your tires checked. Make sure that your tires don't wear out quickly by ensuring that they're running straight. Plus, if you happen to hit one of those MONSTER potholes, you can always visit us for a four-wheel alignment as we have a state-of-the-art machine to give you an accurate alignment!
7. Shocks & Struts: One of our technicians will also inspect your suspension during your visit! Not only are potholes rough on your tires and alignment, but they can also take a toll on your shocks and struts.
8. Top off those fluids: Be sure to stop by and have our team check your fluids to get you ready for your fall road trips! Some of us travel to colder weather in the winter so we want to make sure you have the correct winter coolants in your vehicle. It's also a great time to fill up your washer fluid to help with better visibility.
9. Time for a bath: Make sure that you give your vehicle a good wash! The sand, dirt, and road chemicals are tough on the underneath of our vehicles. This includes brake lines, fluid lines, and even your paint!

As you get ready for the fall and winter months and your holiday travels the things to remember are:

Better performance comes with understanding your vehicles' needs.

Keeping up with the important regular maintenance is the key to getting the most years and mileage out of your vehicle.

Find a shop that works with you to get your vehicle better prepared to hit the road.