Pre-Fall Car Care Tips
Is Your Buy Here Pay Here Dealership Car Ready For Colder Weather?
Fall is just around the corner, which means colder temperatures, falling leaves, and more challenging driving conditions are on the way for Indiana. Now is the time to make sure your vehicle is prepared to handle the changing seasons.
The best buy here pay here dealerships in Indiana perform extensive vehicle maintenance before offering them for sale, but this doesn't mean you should skip preparing for cold weather. In fact, whether you’ve owned your car for a long time or just got it, these tasks apply to you!
Let's look at several things that should be high on your car's fall maintenance list.
Check Your Tires
Your tires are one of the most critical safety components on your car, providing traction and handling in all types of weather. As the temperatures drop, the air pressure in your tires will decrease. Driving on underinflated tires is dangerous, reduces your fuel efficiency, and causes uneven wear. This is why your buy here pay here dealership makes sure all tires are in good condition before offering a vehicle for sale.
To prepare for fall, check your tire pressure using a tire pressure gauge. You can find the recommended PSI (pounds per square inch) in your owner's manual or a sticker inside the driver's side door jamb. Don't forget to check your spare tire too!
Test the Battery Of Your Buy Here Pay Here Car
Cold weather is tough on batteries, too. As the temperature drops, the chemical reactions that produce electricity slow down, reducing your battery's cranking power. If your battery is more than three years old, it may struggle to start your engine on chilly mornings.
To avoid getting stranded, have your battery tested by a professional before the cold weather hits. If it's nearing the end of its life, replace it before it dies on you.
When shopping for a new battery, look for one with high cold cranking amps (CCA). This rating indicates how much power a battery can deliver in cold temperatures, essential for starting your engine on frigid days. The higher the CCA, the easier your car will start when the mercury drops.
Change Your Oil
Clean oil is essential for keeping your engine running smoothly and efficiently. Over time, the oil in your car's engine gets worn out and dirty, picking up all sorts of gunk like dirt, debris, and even tiny metal bits. This sludgy oil can't properly lubricate your engine, leading to increased wear and tear.
Most mechanics recommend changing your oil every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, but this can vary depending on your vehicle and driving habits. Take a peek at your owner's manual to see what the manufacturer recommends.
When you take your car in for an oil change, ask your mechanic to use a winter-grade oil. These oils have a lower viscosity, so they flow more easily in cold temperatures. This helps protect your engine during startup on those frosty Indiana mornings.
Don't forget to keep track of your oil changes in your maintenance records so when it’s time to upgrade at a buy here pay here dealership, you can prove how well you’ve taken care of your ride!
Pack an Emergency Kit
Even if you take all the necessary precautions, unexpected things can happen on the road. That's why it's a good idea to always keep an emergency kit in your car. Your kit should include things like:
? Jumper cables
? Flashlight and extra batteries
? Blankets
? First aid kit
? Bottled water and non-perishable snacks
? Ice scraper
? Sand (for traction if you get stuck)
? Cell phone charger
Check Your Buy Here Pay Here Car's Lights
As the days get shorter, you'll be doing more driving in the dark. Ensure all your car's lights are functioning properly, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers.
Headlights are especially important for visibility in fall weather conditions like rain and fog. If your headlights are yellowed or hazy, consider restoring or replacing them for better brightness.
While you're at it, make sure you have plenty of wiper fluid and that your wiper blades are in good condition. Worn-out wiper blades can streak and smear, reducing visibility in rainy weather.
You Made an Investment At a Buy Here Pay Here Car Dealership. Take Care Of It to Make It Last
By taking these proactive steps to prepare your car for colder weather, you can help ensure a safer and more reliable driving experience this fall and winter. Remember, if you need any assistance getting your buy here pay here dealership car ready for the changing seasons, don't hesitate to reach out to your local mechanic for advice and service.
