The October Auto Check Simple steps to prepare your vehicle for the changing season
October is an ideal time to give your vehicle a seasonal reset. Summer is fading, daylight is shrinking and colder temperatures are on the way. A few simple checks now can help prepare your car for the months ahead and catch small issues before they become bigger problems. This isn't about turning your vehicle into a cold-weather machine overnight. It's about taking care of the basics while conditions are still manageable. START WITH THE TIRES Tires deserve particular attention as temperatures fall. Cold weather can reduce tire pressure, so AAA recommends checking inflation regularly and following the pressure listed by the vehicle manufacturer. Tire pressure can drop by about 1 psi for every 10-degree decrease in temperature. For the most accurate reading, check tires when they are cold. Check the tread for uneven wear, cracks, bulges or other visible damage. If your tires are approaching the end
of their useful life, fall is a better time to address the problem than waiting for the first snow or icy morning. For drivers who regularly encounter snow and ice, dedicated winter tires are worth considering. Unlike all- season tires, they use rubber compounds designed to remain flexible in colder temperatures and tread patterns intended to improve traction on snow and ice. TEST THE BATTERY A weak battery can become a bigger problem as temper- atures drop. AAA Northeast recommends having a battery and charging system tested if the battery is more than three years old, if you've noticed difficulty starting the vehicle in cold weather or if you've recently needed a jump-start. Check the battery for visible corrosion and make sure the connections are secure. If you've experienced starting problems, have the battery and charging system evaluated before temperatures become consistently cold.
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