The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of summer driving have probably taken a toll on your vehicle. With winter just around the corner, you could be headed for a breakdown of the cold temperatures to come. Regular auto repair services during the fall season can lessen the odds of mechanical failure during the cold temperatures of winter.
Some drivers may be able to take care of some of these auto repair services themselves. A skilled auto repair technician will be required for some of the more complex services.
- Oil – Make sure the oil and filter are changed as specified in your manual.
- Engine – Other filters, such as air, fuel, PCV, etc., should be replaced as recommended in your owner's manual, especially if you did a lot of driving in dusty conditions throughout the summer. Find a reliable auto repair shop to help you with engine problems (such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.).
- Air Conditioning -- Because the A/C has probably been in constant use through the summer, have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified technician to make sure it is in operation mode.
- Cooling System – The cooling system also received a lot of wear in the summer to keep your vehicle from overheating. Has it inspected by an auto repair professional before the cold months of winter get here? It should have a drain and flush about every 24 months.
- Windshield Wipers -- Replace worn blades and have lots of windshield washer fluid on hand before the rainy season arrives in full force.
- Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; clean dirt and insects from all lenses. You want to see and to be seen!
- Tires -- Check tire pressures (before driving) at least once a month. Remember the spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition too. Examine the tread for uneven wearing, and cupping, and the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment service may be necessary if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side while driving. Tires should be rotated about every 5,000 miles.
- Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance.
- Battery – Clean any corrosion away from posts and cable connections and re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
- Emergencies -- Carry basic car tools, including a first aid kit, blanket, snacks, water, flares, and flashlight. Ask your auto repair technician for additional suggestions.
For quality auto repair, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 or go online to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of summer driving have probably taken a toll on your vehicle. With winter just around the corner, you could be headed for a breakdown of the cold temperatures to come. Regular auto repair services during the fall season can lessen the odds of mechanical failure during the cold temperatures of winter.
Some drivers may be able to take care of some of these auto repair services themselves. A skilled auto repair technician will be required for some of the more complex services.
- Oil – Make sure the oil and filter are changed as specified in your manual.
- Engine – Other filters, such as air, fuel, PCV, etc., should be replaced as recommended in your owner's manual, especially if you did a lot of driving in dusty conditions throughout the summer. Find a reliable auto repair shop to help you with engine problems (such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.).
- Air Conditioning -- Because the A/C has probably been in constant use through the summer, have it thoroughly inspected by a qualified technician to make sure it is in operation mode.
- Cooling System – The cooling system also received a lot of wear in the summer to keep your vehicle from overheating. Has it inspected by an auto repair professional before the cold months of winter get here? It should have a drain and flush about every 24 months.
- Windshield Wipers -- Replace worn blades and have lots of windshield washer fluid on hand before the rainy season arrives in full force.
- Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; clean dirt and insects from all lenses. You want to see and to be seen!
- Tires -- Check tire pressures (before driving) at least once a month. Remember the spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition too. Examine the tread for uneven wearing, and cupping, and the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment service may be necessary if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side while driving. Tires should be rotated about every 5,000 miles.
- Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance.
- Battery – Clean any corrosion away from posts and cable connections and re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
- Emergencies -- Carry basic car tools, including a first aid kit, blanket, snacks, water, flares, and flashlight. Ask your auto repair technician for additional suggestions.
For quality auto repair, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 or go online to www.elkrivertireandauto.com for more information. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
