When the weather changes in South Dakota, it doesn't drag its feet, and with that said our vehicles need maintenance more than ever before to make sure that they are prepared for what fall and winter brings. Just like you need to get out your clothes for cooler weather, your very own vehicle should be getting specific maintenance to allow them to last better during these months. At Lewis & Clark Ford in Yankton, we want to make sure that all of our customers get the help they are searching for, including services that provide them with all of the tools for success that they could need. Let's explore some essential fall car maintenance tips to keep you and your vehicle safe on the road during this season.
Change Windshield Wipers
One of the very first things that we recommend to anyone for the fall months is to make sure that their windshield wipers are working properly. Fall months often mean more rainfall. The usual recommendation is that windshield wipers be changed every six months, and while many of us don't always follow that, you want good working wipers during months where it's going to rain more. If they're not working properly, it makes it almost impossible to see, and nobody wants that! Replacing wiper blades is one of the least expensive facets of car maintenance. And you can always ask our service department on their recommendation for the best kinds for your vehicle.
Schedule oil change
Hey, we can't talk about maintenance without also mentioning that you should be getting regular oil changes done for your vehicle. This is perhaps the most important maintenance tip we can continue to give as it works hard to keep the engine in your vehicle running smoothly. It's also incredibly cost effective, as engine parts can be expensive and timely to replace. The bottom line is this, if it has been a good few months since the last oil change, it might be the perfect opportunity to schedule one and make sure that the cool weather doesn't have any bad side effects for your vehicle.
Check the battery
Another key maintenance tip that we want to point out is the overall importance of the battery in your vehicle. This is how everything stays running efficiently, and if you ever end up with a dead car battery, you'll be out of luck until someone comes around to rescue you. So, this is a great opportunity to allow our service technicians to test your battery to see how it is holding a charge, and if they recommend getting it replaced. Usually, batteries younger than five years old should be fine, but anything older than that should be looked at.
Make an Emergency Kit
You know how it can be around here; sometimes we don't expect to have a blizzard in October, but that rain can quickly turn into something else, with the right cold front. Fall weather can be unpredictable to say the least, and you might find yourself stuck in some not-ideal conditions. Assemble an emergency kit for your car, including items like a flashlight, blankets, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, and a fully charged mobile phone. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need it, you'll be very thankful that you thought ahead.Schedule Service Appointment at Lewis and Clark Ford!
You have learned about some of the key maintenance tips that we want to recommend to everyone for the fall months ahead! Why not schedule a service appointment with us? This is really an opportunity to make sure your vehicle continues to run well, no matter the weather that you have to deal with ahead. So schedule with us, and allow us to take care of you at every turn. Remember, after fall...winter's not far behind!