Your high-performance imported vehicle needs special attention to keep it running safely and efficiently. An ounce of prevention can save you time and money down the road. That’s why when fall rolls around it’s the perfect opportunity to provide some TLC for your car. Fall car care provides preventative maintenance from bumper to bumper ensuring everything is fully operational. Preventative care is a must to keep your vehicle safe and reliable, while also helping your car last longer. To protect your investment, here are nine fall car care tips every luxury vehicle owner should know.
1. Fluid Check
There is a reason they use the term a “well-oiled machine”. For everything to remain in tip-top condition, machines including vehicles need fluids to run smoothly. Cars use oil, in hand with other vital fluids to keep all their components healthy. Your fluid check should include:
- Oil: Oil keeps the parts of your engine lubricated.
- Radiator Fluid: When radiator fluid runs low your engine is at risk of overheating.
- Transmission Fluid: This can prevent expensive issues from developing in your transmission.
- Power Steering Fluid: Power steering fluid lubricates steering, so you maintain better control when driving.
- Brake Fluid: Brake fluid enhances brake performance so you can stop quickly.
- Air Conditioning Coolant: A must in Texas, your AC coolant keeps your car comfortable when things heat up.
- Washer Fluid: Your windshield-washer fluid keeps you safe on the road when your windshield gets spattered or when you encounter heavy rains. The right fluid helps keep water trickling off your windshield as you drive.
Your autumn fluid check will keep your motor purring and everything working smoothly and reliably.
2. Hoses and Belts
Texas heat takes its toll on your hoses and belts. A quick check will spot leaks, signs of excessive wear, and other damage caused when they become brittle over time. This can lead to fraying and affect fit, so belts become loose. These are the types of vehicle parts that require replacement before improper function leads to more costly damage.
3. Battery Check
You won’t get too far if your battery dies. The heat of a Texas summer can sap your battery’s ability to charge and when the weather cools even a bit, it might not respond as quickly. A battery check makes sure it’s in good condition including it is corrosion free and tight.
4. Brake Safety
While snow isn’t overly common in the Dallas area, you can still encounter ice patches and wet road conditions that require brakes in perfect condition. Your brakes should be checked including:
- Brake linings and pads
- Rotors
- Drums
An annual fall brake check prepares you for the uncertain weather conditions ahead, while also ensuring you can stop to avoid accidents.
5. Exhaust System
Your exhaust system needs to be free of damage, as even small leaks contain deadly carbon monoxide. Your exhaust is prone to damage such as holes and leaks, but rust can also erode the system quickly.
6. AC and Heat
Your AC and heat are also used to keep your windows free of fog and ice that can block your view. Making sure they keep you comfortable while driving, in hand with keeping your windows clear keeps your drive safe.
7. Tire Check
You’ve been driving on scorching hot Texas highways and roads all summer. That can really wear down your tires fast. A tire check will ensure the treads are intact while also looking at important things such as tire pressure, signs of damage, uneven wear, and proper wheel alignment.
8. Steering and Suspension
Your steering and suspension contain a long list of components that could use a check to make sure everything is in working order including:
- Shock absorbers
- Ball joints
- Tie rod ends
- Struts
- Chassis and more
9. Wipers and Lights
With the unpredictable weather of the fall and winter, you’ll want to ensure you have 100% visibility. Older wipers and lights can put you in danger when they fail to operate properly. You need to keep your eyes on the road especially when visibility is reduced. Broken lights also increase your risk of being pulled over.
Preventative maintenance is the best way to keep your car running smoothly. With proper care, your luxury vehicle will keep you safe on the road and help you avoid costly auto repairs in the future.
If you own a luxury imported vehicle in Dallas, Plano, Frisco, Flower Mound, or Irving, schedule your appointment at one of our three locations today! Contact us online here.