October signals the start of fall. Falling leaves, falling temperatures, and everything pumpkin. It is also the ideal time to give your car some extra attention before winter sets in. Being proactive in car care now can save you some maintenance headaches later.

So, how can you get your car ready for the next season? We have 7 tips to help keep your car in tip top shape.

7 Preventative Maintenance Tips

1. Check Your Fluids. Like your body, your vehicle needs fluids to run. You should check all fluids, including engine oil, power steering, brake, and transmission fluid as well as windshield washer solvent and antifreeze/coolant.
2. Check Hoses and Belts. Summer heat can damage belts, so be sure they are not cracked, brittle, frayed, loose, or showing signs of excessive wear.
3. Check the Battery. Make sure the connection is clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Summer heat can also zap your battery so make sure it is charging correctly.
4. Inspect the Brakes. Brakes are very important in wet, cold weather, so make sure they are up for the task. Have the brake linings, rotors and drums inspected at each oil change.
5. Check the Heating and A/C System. Proper heating is critical for winter months and for safety reasons such as defrosting.
6. Check the Lights. As the days get shorter, you want to make sure all the lights are working properly for high visibility. 
7. Inspect Your Tires. Tire pressure drops as the temperature drops so make sure your tire pressure is correct. Tires should also be checked for bulges and bald spots, and uneven wear can indicate a need for wheel alignment. 

Celebrate Fall Car Care Month With NARPRO

We cannot stress enough the importance of being proactive when it comes to car care, especially as the weather changes.  Let the auto repair experts at NARPRO direct you to a local auto repair shop that will get your car in tip-top shape for fall and winter. 

NARPRO only recommends independent, family-owned, full-service auto repair shops that have passed 26 rigorous tests. Check out our recommended auto repair shops. It is the easiest way to find an honest mechanic in the Valley!