How to Care for Your Car this Fall

Fall Tune-Up Checklist

Inspect and Replace Windshield Wipers

Your wiper blades ensure you have a clean field of vision in front of you, sweeping away moisture and dirt that lands on the glass. Whether it’s leaves that are falling or snow hitting the glass, your safety depends on moving it out of the way. If you can’t see in a rain or snowstorm, the chances of an accident are exponentially higher.

Wiper blades go bad due to UV exposure, and the summertime is certainly good for that. In the fall and winter months, you’re dealing with more rain, along with snow and ice if you’re from “up north”. This is when you need your wipers the most, and it’s much better to change them now than in the middle of a snowstorm in January. Stop by AutoZone for a new set!

Replace Windshield Wipers

Ensure You Have Winter-Grade Washer Fluid

Yes, there is in many cases a summertime and wintertime washer fluid. If you use products known as Bug Wash or a “20 degrees and above” washer fluid in the summer, and you’re anywhere geographically where temps are going to get below 20 degrees, you’ll want to get that summer fluid out of the tank and replace with De-icer or washer fluid designed for extreme temps. It contains an antifreeze that prevents the fluid from freezing and cracking in the lines and the reservoir – not just creating a blockage, but causing parts to crack or fail. You’ll be left without any washer fluid when you need it, impeding how well you can see.

Check the washer fluid level as well. If left unchecked, you may end up with an iced over or dirty windshield while driving which puts you in a dangerous situation. Visit your local AutoZone store for more details.

Top Off or Change Out Your Washer Fluid

Battery Check: Don’t Get Stranded

Oil and Filter: Prep for Cold Weather

Check and Change Your Coolant

Fix It With Factory OEM Repair Information

If you’re looking at doing a more complicated job, or just learning about your car, you may want repair diagrams and information. Get factory-accurate OEM repair info with ALLDATA’s single-vehicle subscriptions.

Need help with any of your fall car projects? Seek out one of our preferred shops in your area to help you in what you need!

FAQs:

1. How often should I replace my windshield wipers?

Typically, wiper blades need to be replaced once per year. If they’re hardened, leaving streaks, or chattering on the glass, it’s best to replace them even before the year is up.

2. Can I use regular windshield washer fluid in freezing temperatures?

No, you shouldn’t. If washer fluid isn’t rated for the coldest weather you’ll experience, it will freeze, block the washer fluid lines, and could even crack the washer fluid motor and reservoir.

3. How do I know if my car battery is weak?

Slow cranking, flickering lights, and intermittent electrical issues are a good clue. To check its condition, AutoZone can perform a free battery test, in or out of your vehicle.

4. How often should I change my oil in cold weather?

It’s a good idea to change the oil right before winter, using the suggested winter oil grade, and change the oil every 5,000 miles or according to your maintenance guide.

5. How do I check if my coolant is ready for winter?

An inexpensive coolant strength tester works well to check the protection level of your coolant, or you can use a refractometer for a more accurate reading.