Don’t Get Stuck on the Side of the Road: Your Car Maintenance Checklist for Fall

Fall is just around the corner, and here in Western New York, that means preparing for a new season of weather—from crisp days to eventual snow. A crucial part of this preparation is giving your car a thorough check-up. Taking a little time now for preventative maintenance can prevent a breakdown on a cold, rainy day and save you from costly repairs down the road.

At Sweet Home Federal Credit Union, we’re not just here for your loans; we’re here to help you stay safe and financially sound on the road. Here’s your comprehensive checklist to get your car ready for fall.

What to Check & Why:

• Tires:
  • What to check: Check your tire pressure, including your spare. As the weather cools, tire pressure can drop, leading to poor handling and decreased fuel efficiency. Use a tire pressure gauge and consult your owner’s manual for the correct PSI. Also, inspect your tire tread depth using the “penny test.” Insert a penny upside down into a tire groove; if you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.
  • Why it’s important: Proper tire pressure and tread are essential for traction, especially on wet or icy roads. Worn tires can be a serious safety hazard.
• Fluid Levels:
  • What to check: Pop the hood and check your oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Ensure they are all at the correct levels.
  • Why it’s important: These fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Low coolant levels can cause your engine to overheat, and low brake fluid is a major safety concern. It’s a simple check that can prevent catastrophic engine damage.
• Battery:
  • What to check: Have your battery tested. The average car battery lasts about 3-5 years, and heat can be just as hard on it as cold. A weak battery may work fine in the summer but fail on the first cold morning of fall.
  • Why it’s important: A dead battery is one of the most common reasons for a breakdown. Testing your battery now can save you from being stranded later.
• Wipers & Lights:
  • What to check: Inspect your wiper blades for cracks or streaks. Replace them if they are worn out. Also, check all of your lights—headlights, taillights, turn signals, and brake lights.
  • Why it’s important: Clear visibility is non-negotiable. With shorter days and more rain in the fall, you need your lights and wipers to be working perfectly.
• Belts & Hoses:
  • What to check: Visually inspect the belts and hoses under the hood for cracks, fraying, or bulges. Squeeze the hoses to make sure they are firm.
  • Why it’s important: A broken belt or burst hose can leave you stranded. This simple check can help you catch a problem before it happens.

Taking the time to perform this simple checklist can give you peace of mind and help you avoid a breakdown. However, if your inspection reveals that your current car needs more than just a tune-up—if it’s facing major repairs that aren’t worth the investment, or if it’s simply not reliable enough for the upcoming winter—it might be the perfect time to consider upgrading.

If you find yourself in this situation, Sweet Home FCU is here to help. Our compassionate team can help you explore a new auto loan to get you into a safe, reliable vehicle for the fall and winter seasons. Don’t let car worries keep you from the road; let us help you get where you need to go with confidence.