Because of better initial quality, today's cars, trucks, and SUVs last longer, run better, and need far less maintenance than ever before. But, even the best of the best need a little TLC every now and then. So, with fall upon us, now is the perfect time to show your ride some love. Here are a few fall maintenance tips that will help you keep your vehicle purring no matter what mother nature throws our way this autumn season. 

Change the Oil 

Not that long ago, automakers recommended changing the oil every 3,000 miles or so. However, since the advent of synthetic lubricants, some manufacturers have raised this number to as high as every 10,000 miles. That makes Fall the perfect time for an annual oil change for light drivers or a semi-annual oil change for average to heavier drivers. 

Get a Tune-Up

In the days of old, a tune-up meant a variety of part replacements and adjustments. Thanks to fuel injection and electronic ignition, a tune-up these days consists of little more than checking your vehicle's fluids, brakes, spark plugs, belts, and hoses. 

Stress-Test the Battery

Summer heat and excessive draw put tremendous strain on your car's battery. Usually, the damage doesn't become obvious until the worst possible moment, when you really need the car to start. That makes Fall the perfect time to do a stress test on your vehicle's battery. 

Check the Tire Pressure 

It's a good idea to check your tire pressure on a regular schedule. Road conditions, mileage, and outside air temperature all have an effect on your vehicle's tire pressure. Tires filled to the correct pressure will provide better handling, grip the road better, and stop quicker than over or under-inflated tires.

Contact

Mansfield Motor Group

1493 Park Ave W
Directions Mansfield, OH 44906

  • Sales: (419) 869-3260
  • Service: (419) 871-5977

Hours

  • Monday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
  • Tuesday 9:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Wednesday 9:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Thursday 9:00AM - 7:00PM
  • Friday 9:00AM - 6:00PM
  • Saturday 9:00AM - 5:00PM
  • Sunday Closed

Rotate the Tires

Because of the fact that front tires wear faster than rear tires, rotating them at least once a year will improve their performance and extend their life considerably. Most experts recommend having your tires rotated every six to eight thousand miles. Rotating your tires too often will not hurt them, but not rotating them enough will cause excessive wear.  

Get a Wheel Alignment 

Wheels out of alignment will lead to poor ride quality, lower fuel economy, and cause excessive and uneven tire wear. 

Replace the Windshield Wipers 

Even the highest quality wipers dry out and crack over time. It makes more sense to install low-cost blades or refills three or four times a year as opposed to installing expensive ones once or twice a year. And, for the Fall, use traditional bracket-style windshield wipers. Not only do they cost less, but they also handle ice and snow better than the newer beam-style blades. Also, add winterized washer fluid now allowing it to work its way into the system before temperatures drop. 

Replace the Engine Air Filter 

Most car makers recommend changing the engine air filter about every 15,000 to 30,000 miles. For the average driver, that comes out to once every two years. If you drive less than 15,000 miles per year, however, change this filter every other fall. If you drive a lot in the city, drive in more arid or dusty conditions, or put more than 15,000 miles a year on your vehicle, then change the engine air filter every year. 

Replace the Cabin Air-Filter 

Cabin air filters remove moisture, dirt, dust, and even bugs from your vehicle's interior air. A new cabin filter helps improve HVAC performance, eliminate odors and filter out pollen. Change the cabin air filter immediately if you smell a musty odor coming through your vehicle's vents. Otherwise, change the cabin filter at least once a year, at the very least.

Stop At the Car Wash

Along with looking unsightly, bird droppings, dirt, and tree sap can damage your vehicle's exterior paint and clear coat. Plus, road tar, ice melt, dirt, and salt left on your car will result in rust and corrosion on its body and undercarriage. So, no matter how much you enjoy giving your ride a bath on Sunday morning, only a commercial car wash can thoroughly clean your car's undercarriage.

So, with fall upon us, now is the perfect time to show your ride a little TLC.