Fall Vehicle Maintenance Checklist: Get Your Car Autumn-Ready
While the turn of a season often prompts a review of tires and brakes, it's crucial not to overlook the less visible elements of your car: filters and fluids. These components have already been working overtime during the summer months to remove dust and pollen, and with the season change, they need extra attention to continue functioning optimally.
Here's a complete checklist for preparing your car for fall weather.
Check Your Car’s Oil
As autumn rolls in, it's a good idea to check the condition of your car's oil, especially if you've been driving under harsh conditions like dusty roads or towing heavy loads. These factors can accelerate oil degradation. To gauge the motor oil's condition, simply look at its color and consistency. Clean oil is amber in color and smooth in texture. However, if the oil appears dark, contains floating particles, or feels unusually thick, it's likely time for a change.
If you find that your oil needs to be changed, it's recommended to change your oil filter at the same time. Particles from the old oil could have accumulated in the filter, and a dirty filter can contaminate the new oil, leading to a variety of engine issues. This underscores the importance of choosing a reliable oil filter. High-quality filters like FRAM Synthetic Endurance® or FRAM Tough Guard® are made to deliver 99% filtration efficiency and maximum year-round engine protection. Plus, they’re optimized for use with synthetic oil, which is stable under extreme temperature conditions and offers advanced protection against engine wear and tear.
Don't Neglect Your Engine Air Filter
If your engine's air filter is already clogged with summer debris, it will struggle to deal with the new influx of airborne particles that comes with fall rains, potentially allowing contaminants to enter the engine. Noticeable symptoms of a clogged air filter include engine misfires, rough idling, and reduced horsepower. If you notice these, it's time to get an air filter replacement.
Upgrade Your Cabin Air Filter
Fall can bring allergens and viruses, so having a clean cabin air filter is crucial for maintaining safe air inside your vehicle. Neglecting this filter can reduce airflow and affect the AC system. This might leave your car's heater and windshield defroster struggling right when you need them most. FRAM TrueAir™ is the ultimate cabin air filter for autumn. It captures not only dirt and dust with 99% efficiency but also airborne bacteria and viruses with 95% efficiency.
Check Your Fluid Levels
As autumn comes with temperature fluctuations and unpredictable weather patterns, it's necessary to ensure your car's fluids are well-maintained. From motor oil to transmission fluid and antifreeze, FRAM® offers a full range of fluids to protect your vehicle’s components.
Let this checklist be your roadmap to a safe and smooth autumn drive. If you're a DIY enthusiast, our vehicle maintenance center is a great place to learn about automotive air filtration products and receive expert advice on how to care for your car all year round.
Questions? We're here to help. Reach out the FRAM specialists for product and maintenance support.
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