A Fall Checklist for Winter Driving

Now is the time to prepare your vehicle for the upcoming winter-driving season.  Preventative maintenance helps vehicles perform at optimum levels in a variety of conditions. The worst time of the year to have a road side vehicle problem is Winter. I’ve been there, and it sucks!

Fall Car-Care Checklist

1: Brakes

Summer travel gives brake pads a heavy workout, resulting in the removal of thin layers. Now is the time to check pads, shoes, rotors, drums, calipers, wheel cylinders, brake hardware and the parking brake for wear and tear.

2: Tires

Closely inspect the tread and sidewall areas of tires for uneven or irregular wear. In addition, excessive edge wear, center wear and shoulder wear can act as an indicator for other trouble spots on your vehicle. It’s also important to ensure correct air pressure at all times in order to prevent premature wear. Be sure to check the spare as well.

3: Battery

Summer heat does the most damage to battery life and is why they often fail in the winter. Check for corroded terminals and a bulging or cracked case. Test and replace battery if necessary.

4: Wiper Blades

Winter driving conditions challenge your ability to see the road. If you can’t remember when you last changed your wiper blades, it’s definitely time!

5: Shocks and Struts

For motorists located in cold and snowy climates, like Ontario, Fall and Winter also usher in a dreaded time of year: pothole season. Shocks and struts are the most overlooked service parts on a vehicle, but they affect ride control and comfort and can also affect a number of related parts.

6: Engine Oil

Ensure your engine oil has the correct viscosity in order to endure cold weather. Engine oil should be changed or replenished at recommended intervals. Low or dirty fluids affect how an engine and its components perform and could potentially cause engine damage under extreme conditions.

7: Fluid Levels

All vehicle fluids and lubricants should be checked and changed at factory-recommended intervals. Key fluids include antifreeze/coolant level and concentration, as well as power steering, brake, transmission and windshield washer fluids.

8: Engine Belts and Hoses

Replace  belts and hoses at recommended intervals, to insure  optimal service life and original-equipment performance.

9: Air Filter

The air filter is designed to protect your engine from airborne contaminants. Poor air flow to the engine inhibits performance and generates greater fuel consumption. A new air filter allows clean, unrestricted air flow into the engine and helps ensure proper performance for a longer life.

10: Headlamps and Taillamps

Days become shorter in the fall and winter, meaning more nighttime driving and increased usage of headlamps and taillamps. Inspect and test all lamps on your vehicle to ensure proper function and proper alignment.

(SOURCE:  Chrysler Group LLC)