Winters can be tough on your car, exacerbating existing problems and causing new ones to develop. Completing a thorough auto maintenance checklist in the fall will prepare your vehicle for the winter ahead, keep you safe, and prevent significant problems that could leave you stranded. Learn about the steps you should take before winter by referring to the list below.

What Auto Maintenance Should Be Completed Before Winter?

1. Schedule a Multi-Point Inspection

Your preferred auto shop should perform a multi-point inspection to look for signs of wear or problems with your vehicle. Your lights, cooling system, heating system, filters, transmission fluid, windshield wipers, battery, and brakes should be examined and replaced if needed. This will detect developing problems before they become a significant concern and ensure your car is in optimum shape to handle the cold. It’s also a good idea to get an oil change to make sure everything runs smoothly.

2. Get Needed Repairs

Problems like rough starts, loud idling, and delayed acceleration will all become worse in winter. If your car has any issues that you’ve noticed, even if your check engine light isn’t on, you should take it to a repair shop and explain the problems you’re having. Otherwise, you risk becoming stranded or needing a more costly repair.

3. Check Your Tires

Your car’s tires should have ample tread on them to minimize the chance of sliding on slick roads. To check the tread, put a penny in the groove of the tire, with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you. If all or most of his head is visible, it needs to be replaced. You should also examine them for signs of uneven wear, splitting, cupping, or cracks, and ensure they stay appropriately inflated throughout winter to lower gas usage and the risk of blowouts.

4. Refresh Your Emergency Kit

You should always carry an emergency kit in your vehicle in case you break down, but you need to make sure that it’s ready for winter. Replace any expired or damaged medicines, bandages, flares, and batteries (in flashlights or emergency radios). The kit should also contain a few changes of winter clothes, non-perishable food and water, and multiple thick blankets to keep you warm if you have to wait for assistance.

Does your car need thorough auto maintenance before winter hits? If so, take it to Fulton County Best One Tires & Service Center in Rochester, IN. For 20 years, they’ve provided skilled services and maintenance, including oil changes, rotations, alignments, inspections, and repairs at competitive prices. Read their reviews online and call (574) 223-2103 to schedule your winter service today.