5 Fall Car Maintenance Tips (and What to Do If Your Ride Is Too Pricey to Fix)

Fall is officially here, and that means cooler weather, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin spice… everything. It’s also the perfect time to show your car a little love before winter sets in. 

Whether you’re cruising the coast or prepping for holiday road trips, a little maintenance goes a long way in keeping your ride running smoothly. And, if your car’s repairs are starting to look scarier than a haunted house, we’ve got a fix for that too!

Here are 5 fall car maintenance tips to keep your vehicle in top shape—and how to tell if your old ride is better off being replaced.

1. Check Your Tires

With temperatures dropping, your tire pressure tends to drop too. Under-inflated tires impact your car’s handling, decrease fuel efficiency, and (of course) wear down your tires faster. You should also check that your tire treads are deep enough for safe driving—especially when it comes to wet roads.

When in doubt, use the penny trick to check your tread! Grab a penny, stick it in the tread with the top of Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see all of Honest Abe’s head, it’s time to replace those tires.

Upgrade Tip: Tires aren’t cheap, and if replacing them makes you question the value of your entire vehicle, it might be time to consider an upgrade. With an affordable auto loan at the right rate, upgrading your ride might be easier than you think.

2. Test Your Battery

Cooler temperatures can put extra strain on your car battery. An already weak battery could leave you stranded on a cold day. Get your battery tested to make sure it’s holding a charge and inspect the cables for corrosion. Most auto parts stores will check your battery for free.

Upgrade Tip: If you’re having to replace your battery more often than usual (like every 4 to 5 months instead of 4 to 5 years), it probably means your car’s electrical system is on its last leg. Instead of paying for constant trips to the mechanic, look into getting a newer, more reliable vehicle before winter hits.

3. Top Off Fluids

Check and top off all your car’s essential fluids—coolant, brake fluid, windshield washer fluid, and of course motor oil. With colder weather, maintaining proper fluid levels will help your car run smoother and safer.

Upgrade Tip: If your car or truck has been leaking fluids like a broken faucet, your wallet is probably draining just as fast. Instead of dealing with the hassle and cost of repairs, let Old Ocean Federal Credit Union help you upgrade with a flexible auto loan that fits your budget.

4. Replace Wipers & Check the Heater

Fall weather (especially during hurricane season) can bring a lot of rain, so make sure your windshield wipers are in good shape. They don’t cost much, but they’re vital for visibility when the weather gets rough. Also, don’t forget to test your heater and defroster. You don’t want to wait until the first cold snap to realize your heater’s busted!

Upgrade Tip: If fixing the heater or electrical system is going to cost more than the car’s worth, it might be time to cut your losses. With our auto loan rates, you can stop pouring money into an old clunker.

5. Inspect Your Brakes

It goes without saying that brakes are one of the most important parts of your vehicle, and fall is a great time to get them checked. If you hear squeaking, grinding, or feel vibrations when you brake, get them checked like yesterday. Don’t wait until roads are slick and unreliable.

Upgrade Tip: Between the cost of parts and labor, getting brake pads and rotors installed can be pricey. If it’s the only major repair, that’s one thing, but if your vehicle is racking up bill after bill for other issues too, there’s a more cost-effective strategy. With our low-interest auto loans, you can swap that unreliable car or truck for one that keeps you and your loved ones safe and sound.

Fall car maintenance is all about making sure your ride is ready for the colder months. But if your current vehicle is turning into a money pit, it’s time to pay the dealer a visit. At Old Ocean Federal Credit Union, we offer auto loans with competitive rates, flexible terms, and a fast approval process.

Ready to upgrade? Drop by or give us a call to talk about how we can help you finance your next car. With a shiny new ride, you’ll be cruising with confidence.