Autumn Preparedness Tips for Your Vehicle

As the days grow shorter and the temperature begins to drop in Clarksville, TN, now is the perfect time to ensure your vehicle is prepared for the seasonal changes ahead. Fall brings cooler mornings, unpredictable weather, and an increased chance of rain, all of which can impact your driving experience. At A&R Complete Auto Care, we want to help you stay safe and keep your vehicle in peak condition with these simple yet essential autumn car care tips.

1. Check and Replace Your Wipers

Fall in Clarksville can bring frequent rain showers and the occasional frosty morning. To maintain clear visibility in these conditions, check your windshield wipers for signs of wear. If you notice streaking or hear squeaking when using them, it’s time for a replacement. Consider investing in high-quality wiper blades designed for heavy rain to handle the wet conditions.

2. Inspect Your Tires

With slick leaves and the potential for early frost on the roads, your tires are crucial for maintaining grip and handling. Take the following steps to ensure your tires are up to the challenge:

• Check Tread Depth: Adequate tread depth is essential for maintaining traction in wet or slippery conditions. An easy way to check is with the penny test—insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln's head facing down. If you can see all of his head, your tread is too worn, and it’s time to replace your tires.
• Monitor Tire Pressure: As temperatures drop, your tire pressure can decrease as well. Under-inflated tires can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and increase wear. Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels.

3. Test Your Battery

Cooler temperatures can take a toll on your vehicle’s battery, especially if it's more than a few years old. Batteries lose power in the cold, making it harder for your engine to start. Stop by A&R Complete Auto Care for a quick battery check to ensure it’s holding a charge and to avoid any unwanted surprises during chilly fall mornings.

4. Top Off Fluids

Autumn is an excellent time to check all of your vehicle's fluids, including:

• Coolant: Your coolant levels should be checked regularly to prevent your engine from overheating or freezing in colder weather.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: With rain and falling leaves, you’ll need plenty of washer fluid to keep your windshield clean. Ensure your washer fluid is topped off, and consider using a fluid designed to resist freezing.
• Oil: If you're due for an oil change, now is the perfect time to take care of it. Fresh oil will help your engine run smoothly as temperatures fluctuate.

5. Inspect Your Brakes

As fall progresses, you'll likely find yourself driving on wet, leaf-covered roads. Braking performance is critical in these conditions. Have your brakes inspected for signs of wear, such as squeaking, grinding, or a spongy brake pedal. Replacing worn brake pads or rotors can prevent dangerous situations down the road.

6. Check Your Lights

With shorter days and more driving in the dark, it's crucial to ensure all your lights are functioning properly. This includes headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and fog lights. Clean your headlights regularly to remove any fogging or dirt buildup, which can diminish their brightness. Replacing dim or burned-out bulbs is an easy fix that can greatly enhance your visibility on the road.

7. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Even with a well-maintained vehicle, unexpected situations can occur. An emergency kit can be a lifesaver if you experience a breakdown or get stuck in bad weather. Essential items to include are:

• Jumper cables
• A flashlight with extra batteries
• A first aid kit
• Blankets
• Non-perishable snacks
• A portable phone charger
• Tire repair kit or spare tire

Get Ready for Fall with A&R Complete Auto Care

At A&R Complete Auto Care in Clarksville, TN, we’re committed to keeping your vehicle in top shape, no matter the season. Our expert technicians can help you with everything from wiper replacements and tire inspections to brake checks and battery testing. Don't wait until the cold weather hits—schedule an appointment with us today, and let us help you stay safe on the road this autumn.