As autumn approaches, we all start to think about how to prepare our car for weather conditions a bit different from those we got used to during summer. And, while some of us regularly procrastinate, the truth is that sooner or later reality check’s going to catch us unprepared. However, this really doesn’t need to happen – getting your car ready for the unfavourable weather conditions shouldn’t be THAT hard.
If you want to have your car running smoothly during autumn and winter seasons, take a look.
1. Call a mechanic as soon as possible
This one is a no-brainer, yet many drivers find it ok to delay calling a mechanic.
While rains and winds most certainly won’t be as kind to your car as the sun was, there might be a couple of things that need to be repaired after a long summer season. During summer, we sometimes forget to ask a professional to look over because we opt for bikes or walks more often. So, make sure to call a mechanic while the weather conditions are still pleasant.
The sooner you give your car a proper checkup, the better. This will save your nerves too – you don’t want to have major malfunctions in the middle of winter.
2. Pay special attention to hoses and belts
Overheating is one of the common problems affecting hoses and faulty belts. Because summer is the time of the year when overheating usually occurs, you’d want to have belts and hoses checked before you hit the road in autumn.
While you can inspect them yourself, it’s wiser to call a reputable service that collaborates with the world’s greatest brands in the car industry. Your fellow Australians regularly call mobile mechanics from the Hunter Valley to check their hoses and belts and do the rest of car servicing, which includes an oil change and full safety check. It’s in your best interest to learn how to differentiate good car servicing from bad car servicing.
3. Have the tires and brakes checked
When it comes to safety check, it is essential to ensure that your brakes won’t suddenly fail. Aside from calling a mechanic to inspect them, you should also periodically check the rotor and brake pad lining yourself. Before driving again, you must ensure that the flexible rubber hose that’s attached to the brake caliper is both dry and free of cracks.
If you don’t feel comfortable doing it on your own, you can kindly ask a seasoned driver from your neighborhood to check your tires, too.
4. Take a look at your lights
As far as the safety check goes, having your headlights, brake lights, taillights, emergency flashers, and parking lights inspected is one of the most important things.
You can do the basic check just by walking around your car to see if something concerning your car’s exterior isn’t working properly. Opting for halogen lamps will enhance both safety and visibility. As autumn approaches, nights become longer and darker, so it’s crucial to ensure that your lights are clean. You have to be able to see other drivers and passengers in all weather conditions, especially when the water is pouring from the sky.
5. Make a list of everything that’s left to be done
As you can see, getting your car ready isn’t necessarily tough, yet it does require paying attention to many details and ensuring that nothing slips your mind.
Either your mechanic or you will have to make sure that the wiper blades are checked (and changed if necessary). Also, you’ll need to inspect your defroster (just in case), as well as all fluid levels. It is essential to refill your car’s cooling system and have the battery checked.
If your budget allows, consider installing all-weather floor mats to protect your car’s interior from spills and stains. You don’t want mud to ruin the comfort of your car. Plus, a slippery surface can cause trouble during the ride.
Taking care of your vehicle in late summer is beneficial to both your budget and mental health. Do what needs to be done on time and your car will thank you later. While autumn and winter in Australia aren’t nearly as harsh as in other parts of the world, these seasons can still be very unpredictable Down Under.
