Can you guys believe it’s already September? Well, it sure feels that way here in the Capital District, and we’re confident the temperature is going to keep dropping. Sadly, this means summer is quickly escaping us, and fall is moving on in. That means that right now is the perfect time to kickstart your fall maintenance! Not sure where to start? No problem, our team has just what you’re looking for in this week’s blog! Below, find three essential end of summer maintenance tips, aka a great place to start! If you’re not into DIY maintenance, our team is more than happy to help you out! Just head over to our site to schedule your service appointment, today! 

Service To Complete…

Inspection:

• The place to start is with an inspection. This is the best way to narrow down the service/ maintenance your vehicle needs most. 
• This will include important checks like battery check, fluids, belts, hoses, lights, and more 
• These are important to catch now because as temperatures fall, components can worsen 

Tire Tread

• Your tire tread is extremely important, especially during the upcoming winter months. If your tire tread is low or bald, you have no grip on slick and icy roads
• The proper tread depth should be at least 2/32”
• If you need a simple way to check your tire depth, utilize the penny test
• Penny Test How To: With Lincoln’s head facing downwards, place the penny into several grooves of a tire. If you can see the top of his head, your tread depth is worn too low and it’s time to replace your tires
• If you’re in heavy snow areas, you should invest in snow tires – which have proven to provide better traction than all-season tires.
• Keep an eye out for more than just tread depth. Look for intense light exposure, puncture holes, or anything thing else

Windshield Wiper Maintenance

• Often overlooked, but the real MVP of winter driving, windshield wipers are extremely important all year round, especially during the winter months
• When snow, sleet, hail, etc. are falling at you, you need a good pair of wipers to keep your visibility clear 
• Examine your blades for breaks, tears, streaking, etc. 
• If you’ve had your wipers for more than 6 months, it’s a good idea to replace them 
• If you get a lot of snow, looking into purchase wipers specifically for snow/winter weather