October is National Car Care Month

It's October and it's National Car Care Month. This month means it's time to prepare your vehicle for the winter season. Look below for a list of quick fall checks that can help you and your vehicle prepare for winter.

The Battery

A good battery starts your car and powers the vehicle's electronics. A bad battery leaves you stranded in a parking lot, shivering while you wait for a tow truck. You want a good battery, not a bad battery. If you notice a slow-starting engine, corrosion on the terminals or dimming lights you might want to have your battery checked, cleaned and charged or possibly replaced.

The Tires

Good tires make driving more controlled. Bad tires can leave you spinning, hydroplaning or make the ride a bit shaky. If you notice uneven tread wear, low tire tread or low air pressure, you'll want to either replace the tire or have them refilled with air. If you notice shaking when driving, that could be either wheel balancing or uneven wear.

The Windshield Wipers

Fall and winter brings increased visibility issues with the changing weather. Wipers are important to maintain maximum visibility. If the rubber on your windshield is cracked or ripped, it's definitely time to replace the wiper blades.

Coolant levels

Engine coolant serves two purposes. The first purpose is to keep your engine cool during summer. The second purpose is to keep your engine from freezing in cold weather. It's a good practice to check coolant regularly throughout the year.