The last few weeks of summer always seem to go quickly. Vacations are wrapping up, kids are getting ready to head back to school and regular work and family schedules are starting to return across Essex and the surrounding area.
Your vehicle is about to get back into its routine too.
After months of summer road trips, day trips, construction zones and extra kilometres, late August is a great time to take care of a few basic maintenance items. Checking your vehicle now can help you head into the busy fall driving season prepared.
Start With Your Oil and Filters
Think back to the beginning of summer. How many kilometres have you added since then?
If you’re getting close to your vehicle’s recommended oil change interval, this is a convenient time to take care of it. Check your owner’s manual for the correct oil type and recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle.
Planning a DIY oil change in Essex? Auto Barn can help you find the motor oil, oil filter and other supplies you need.
Don’t stop at the oil filter. Take a look at your engine air filter and cabin air filter too. Summer dust, pollen and driving on rural Essex County roads can leave filters dirtier than you might realize.
Get a Clear View for Fall
Long days of summer sun and heat can be tough on windshield wiper blades. Add bugs, dirt and debris into the mix, and your wipers may be showing some wear by the end of August.
Run your wipers and watch for streaking, skipping or areas of the windshield that aren’t being cleared properly. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time for a new set.
With fall rain and shorter days ahead, good visibility becomes even more important.
Check your washer fluid while you’re at it, and stop by Auto Barn if you need help finding the right wiper blades for your vehicle in Essex.
Don’t Overlook Your Car Battery
Your battery has been working through the summer heat, and late August is a good time to check its condition before the weather begins to change.
Slow starts, difficulty turning the engine over and visible corrosion around the battery terminals can all be signs that your battery deserves some attention.
If your battery is getting older, consider having it tested so you have a better idea of its condition heading into fall.
Looking for a car battery in Essex, Ontario? Our team at Auto Barn can help you find the right replacement for your car, truck or SUV.
Check Your Vehicle’s Lights
Back-to-school season also means we’re heading toward shorter days and earlier sunsets.
Do a quick walk around your vehicle and check your headlights, high beams, brake lights, turn signals, reverse lights and licence plate lights.
It only takes one burnt-out bulb to reduce visibility or make it harder for other drivers to see what you’re doing on the road.
If something needs replacing, Auto Barn carries automotive bulbs and lighting products for a wide range of vehicles.
How Are Your Brakes Feeling?
New noises, grinding, squeaking, vibration or a change in brake pedal feel shouldn’t be ignored. If you’ve put on plenty of kilometres over the summer, this is a good time to pay closer attention to your braking system and have it inspected if something doesn’t seem right.
For brake pads, rotors and other brake parts in Essex, Auto Barn can help you find the correct components for your vehicle.
Clean Out the Summer and Start Fresh
A seasonal vehicle reset isn’t complete without dealing with everything summer left behind.
Clear out beach towels, water bottles and whatever else has accumulated in the back seat. Vacuum the interior, clean the windows and wash away the bugs, dust and road grime from the exterior.
Take a look through the supplies in your garage at the same time. Restock your car wash products, glass cleaner, microfibre towels, fluids and other everyday vehicle maintenance supplies so you’re ready for fall.
Get Ready for Fall Driving in Essex
School drop-offs, work commutes, sports practices and everyday errands can quickly fill the calendar once September arrives. Making vehicle maintenance part of your end-of-summer reset can help make sure your car, truck or SUV is ready to keep up.
Check your oil and filters, inspect your wiper blades, take a look at your battery, test your lights and pay attention to your brakes before the fall driving season gets underway.
For auto parts and vehicle maintenance supplies in Essex, Ontario, visit Auto Barn. Our team can help you find the right parts and products for your vehicle.
Auto Barn
377 Talbot Street North
Essex, ON N8M 2W3
519-776-9885
