The Quintessential Fall Car Care Month Checklist

Prepare For Winter Early With This Fall Car Care Month Checklist

Fall is in full force, and that means the weather is changing as we speak. Now is the time to make sure you get your car serviced before you face the harsher winter weather right around the corner! Read our fall car care checklist below and schedule Nissan service near Charlotte at our Rock Hill Nissan service center today!

1. Check your battery.

Cold weather can reduce your battery's performance and make it harder to start your car. Have your battery tested and replace it if it's weak or old. You don't want to get stranded with a dead battery on a chilly morning.

2. Change your oil.

Oil lubricates your engine and protects it from wear and tear. But oil can get thicker when it's cold, which reduces its effectiveness. Switch to a thinner oil that can flow better in low temperatures. Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil viscosity for your car and climate.

3. Replace your wiper blades.

Visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially when it rains or gets foggy. Worn-out wiper blades can leave streaks and smears on your windshield, impairing your view. Replace your wiper blades every six months or sooner if they are cracked, torn, or noisy.

4. Inspect your tires.

Tires are your car's only contact with the road, so they need to be in good shape. Check the tread depth and look for signs of damage, such as bulges, cracks, or uneven wear. Rotate your tires regularly to extend their life and improve their performance. Also, check the tire pressure and adjust it according to the manufacturer's specifications. Underinflated tires can reduce your fuel efficiency and handling, as well as increase the risk of blowouts.

5. Test your heater and defroster.

You want to stay warm and comfortable in your car, but you also want to prevent your windows from fogging up or icing over. Test your heater and defroster before winter arrives and make sure they are working properly. If not, have them repaired by a professional.

6. Flush your cooling system.

Your cooling system prevents your engine from overheating, but it also protects it from freezing in cold weather. Over time, the coolant can get contaminated with rust, dirt, and debris, which can clog the system and cause problems. Flush your cooling system and refill it with fresh coolant at least once every two years or as recommended by your car's manual.

7. Pack an emergency kit.

Even if you follow these tips, you never know when you might encounter an unexpected situation on the road. It's always a good idea to have an emergency kit in your car that contains items such as jumper cables, flashlights, flares, blankets, water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a phone charger. You may also want to include some extra clothing, gloves, a hat, and boots in case you have to wait for help in the cold.

Schedule Nissan Service Near Charlotte At Rock Hill Nissan

It may seem like a lot to keep track of, but if you follow this Fall car care checklist, you’ll be more than prepared for when the colder months roll around. And if there’s anything you need to replace or you can’t check out yourself, you can always make Rock Hill Nissan a part of your winter car prep by scheduling an appointment with our service center in Rock Hill. With genuine Nissan parts and service specials to save you big on the services you need, we're here to make sure you prepare your car for winter right with Rock Hill Nissan!