It’s always important to take care of your car, but consistent maintenance is especially vital as the weather turns colder. Engines and parts are prone to more issues in chilly temperatures, so ask Fort Mitchell Garage,  your local auto repair shop to perform our Fall Service Special and take a look before winter extremes arrive. In the meantime, use these five tips to help your car acclimate to the coming colder temperatures.

5 Ways an Auto Repair Shop Can Care for Your Car This Fall

1. Change the Engine Oil & Filter

Cold temperature start-up causes greater oil contaminants, and clean oil & filter prevents build-up. If you are at or near the recommended mileage for an oil change, let us perform it. If you can’t see through your air filter, change that as well. These are easy, inexpensive fixes that will keep your car running smoothly.

2. Check the Lights

Autumn comes with shorter days, which makes headlights more important than ever. Let us give your car a once-over and check all the lights—including the high beams, brake lights, tail lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers. We can replace any broken or burned-out bulbs and clean light coverings if necessary.

3. Inspect Brakes & Tires

The colder months bring unique hazards on the road, such as fallen leaves and icy roads. In these months, you’ll need your car’s brakes and tires to perform properly. We will make sure the tires have enough tread and the brakes bring the car to a complete stop. Cold weather makes tire pressure drop, so take a few minutes to re-inflate your wheels to their recommended PSI levels regularly.

4. Test the Car Heater & Defroster

You don’t want to do all your holiday shopping in a car that can’t heat up, and a vehicle with a malfunctioning defroster can be dangerous to drive. While these parts may be costly to repair, they are necessary for staying comfortable and safe on the road. Test them before the coldest temperatures come to town.

5. Check the Battery

Machines can be unpredictable in the cold, so it pays to have a fully charged battery that will start your car every time. Don’t get stuck in the cold with a vehicle that won’t run! Let us test your battery before the cold hits. Should your battery act strangely this fall, bring your car to us, your auto repair technician.

To keep your car running like a thoroughbred this season, visit us at Fort Mitchell Garage in Covington, Kentucky. We’ve served the area with reliable auto repair for more than 100 years. Visit the website to view our services, or call (859) 431-3326 to make an appointment.