As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures start to drop, it’s time to turn your attention to your vehicle. Fall car maintenance isn’t just about comfort—it’s about safety, reliability, and preparing your ride for the months ahead.
October is recognized as Car Care Month, serving as a timely reminder to perform essential vehicle maintenance and prepare your car for winter conditions.
At Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek, we’ve compiled this fall vehicle maintenance checklist to keep your car, truck, or SUV running smoothly through autumn and beyond.
Why Fall Vehicle Maintenance Matters
Autumn is the perfect time to check in on your vehicle. The summer heat can take a toll on key systems, and early preparation as temperatures drop helps avoid surprises when colder weather rolls in. Plus, fluctuating temperatures can affect fluids, tires, and battery performance.
Fall Car Maintenance Checklist
Here are the top areas to focus on when preparing your car for fall. Before you begin, be sure to consult your owner's manual for vehicle-specific maintenance recommendations and instructions.
1. Battery Check
Cold starts are harder on a weak car battery. Have your car battery tested to ensure it holds a charge, especially if it’s more than 3 years old.
- Check for corrosion on battery terminals
- Look for signs of swelling or cracking
- Replace if the voltage is low or starting is sluggish
- Have a professional inspect the charging system to ensure reliable starts in cold weather
2. Oil Change Before Winter
Old or dirty oil thickens in cooler weather, reducing engine protection. If your last oil change was before summer travel, now’s the time to change it.
- Use oil with the right viscosity for your climate
- Don’t forget to replace the oil filter
3. Inspect Brakes for Fall Safety
With wet leaves and early frost, traction can suffer in fall. Your braking system must be at its best. For optimal safety, have your brakes checked by certified technicians to ensure all components are functioning properly.
- Inspect pads and rotors
- Listen for unusual noises such as grinding, squealing, or other abnormal sounds
- Check brake fluid levels
4. Tire Rotation & Pressure Check
Maintaining proper tire pressure is essential for safety and vehicle performance, especially as temperatures fluctuate in the fall and winter. Regularly check your tire air pressure with a pressure gauge and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Rotate tires regularly to promote even tread wear and extend tire lifespan
- All season tires are suitable for light to moderate snow, but consider switching to winter tires or snow tires for improved traction in heavier snow, slush, or icy conditions
- Check tread depth and monitor tread wear; replace with new tires if necessary to maintain safety and performance
- Snow tires and winter tires offer improved traction and handling in snowy or icy conditions due to specialized tread patterns and rubber compounds
- Inflate to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI and maintain proper tire pressure for optimal efficiency and safety
5. Replace Windshield Wipers
Visibility is crucial during rainy and frosty fall mornings.
- Replace your wiper blades with winter wiper blades to ensure clear visibility during harsh weather conditions
- Fill washer fluid with freeze-resistant formula
- Keep an ice scraper in your vehicle to remove ice and snow buildup from the windshield and maintain clear visibility during icy conditions
6. Check Heater & Defroster Function
Make sure your cabin stays warm and your windshield stays clear.
- Test heater output and fan speeds
- Ensure defrosters blow warm air across the glass
- Look for signs of leaks or clogs in the HVAC system
7. Coolant System Inspection
Your car's cooling system is essential for preventing overheating and protecting the engine from freezing and wear.
- Check the proper level of coolant and antifreeze levels to ensure optimal performance
- Flush the system if coolant is dirty or old
- Inspect radiator hoses for leaks or cracks
- Check transmission fluid as part of your comprehensive fall maintenance routine
8. Inspect the Cabin Air Filter
A clean cabin air filter keeps interior air fresh and HVAC systems running efficiently.
- Replace every 15,000–30,000 miles or annually
- Especially important if you have allergies or drive in dusty areas
A clean cabin air filter can also help improve fuel efficiency.
Emergency Preparedness for Fall Driving
As the fall and winter seasons approach, it’s essential to prepare your vehicle for the cold weather and potential emergencies that may arise. A well-maintained vehicle is crucial for safe winter driving, and being prepared with the right equipment and knowledge can help you navigate through snowy regions and colder temperatures. (Keep keywords: cold weather, fall and winter seasons, winter driving, snowy regions, winter seasons, vehicle, fall and winter, winter, cold)
Bonus Tip: Schedule a Fall Safety Inspection
Many Kunes service centers offer seasonal service specials, including multi-point inspections to catch small issues before they become big problems. Ask about available offers at your nearest Kunes location!
Regular inspections help keep your vehicle in good shape for the season ahead.
Get Fall-Ready at Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek
Whether you’re booking service or browsing fall-ready vehicles, Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek has you covered. Kunes Buick GMC of Oak Creek offers comprehensive car care services to prepare your vehicle for fall and winter. With multiple dealership locations across Illinois and Wisconsin, it’s easy to find a service center near you—and take advantage of current offers.
Don’t Wait—Prepare Your Car for Fall Today
From oil changes and brake checks to tire service and battery replacement, taking care of your vehicle now helps ensure a smooth, safe ride through fall and winter.
Before the colder months and winter months arrive, make sure to prioritize winter car care. Check all your vehicle lights—including headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and emergency flashers—to ensure they are functioning properly and working properly. Replace any burnt out bulbs. Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent issues during winter weather and winter driving conditions. Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies for winter. Always consult your vehicle owner's manual for additional winter maintenance tips.
Schedule your fall maintenance service or browse fall-ready inventory today