COLUMBUS—As the days get shorter and the weather gets cooler, AAA urges drivers to prepare for the road ahead. October is Car Care Month, and the perfect time to get cars ready for winter. AAA automotive experts recommend drivers focus on six key areas to keep their cars running efficiently this winter.
Last year, AAA responded to 33 million calls for roadside assistance across the country. In Ohio alone, more than 300,000 motorists requested roadside assistance during the winter months (December-March). As cooler weather sets in, AAA anticipates issues with vehicle batteries, tires, and other vehicle systems.
“No matter how old your car is, it needs TLC,” said Steve Miller, ASE certified technician, and manager of the Grandview AAA Car Care Plus. “Any time your car breaks down, it’s stressful. Ignoring maintenance now can lead to those breakdowns and could even jeopardize your safety.”
This time of year, AAA Automotive experts recommend drivers:
Check the Battery: Nearly a quarter of AAA’s winter calls for roadside assistance in Ohio are battery-related. Starting an engine in cold weather requires a fully charged battery in good condition, yet two-thirds of drivers never check their battery before it dies. If your battery is at least 3 years old, have a technician test it before winter hits.
Change the Oil: One of the most important things you can do for your car is to change your oil regularly. The proper interval will be listed in the vehicle owner’s manual. Often, it depends on the climate and how much you drive. Between changes, check the oil and fluid levels monthly. Always make sure to use the right oil for your car. Reputable repair shops can help with this.
Inspect the Tires and Wheel Alignment: Tires are the main point of contact with the road and are vital to road safety. Cooler weather decreases tire pressure, which makes tires more susceptible to uneven wear and damage. Proper tire pressure levels can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. Alignment issues can also cause tires to wear unevenly. To avoid issues, have your alignment checked annually.
Change Filters: Air filters clean the engine and cabin filters clean the air in the vehicle’s cabin. All vehicles have air filters, but not all have cabin filters. To determine whether or not your car has a cabin filter, check the vehicle owner’s manual, or ask your technician. Both filters should be changed annually.
Ensure Good Visibility (Wiper Blades, Headlights, and Washer Fluid): Wiper blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Automotive experts recommend changing wiper blades every six months and when they leave streaks or miss spots. Headlights should be clear and in working order. If they appear yellow or cloudy, replace the lens or have them restored. (Learn more about headlights on Newsroom.AAA.com.) Make sure the windshield washer fluid reservoir is filled with a washer fluid rated to at least -20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Get Familiar with Vehicle Technology: Familiarize yourself with any Advanced Driver Assistance Systems on your vehicle. Know their capabilities, limitations, and where sensors and cameras are located. Rain, snow, or slush can cloud camera lenses, delivering blurry imagery. Gently wiping the camera can help, but never rely solely on backup cameras or other driver assistance systems. There is currently no substitute for an engaged driver.
Virtual Car Care Event:
To celebrate Car Care Month, AAA Ohio is holding a virtual Girls’ Night at the Garage. This event was developed to empower local women to take their car care knowledge to the next level.
This year’s virtual event will take place on Facebook Live, Oct. 19 at 6 p.m. on AAA Ohio’s Facebook page.
During the event, attendees will learn about each of the six-car care must-dos and have the chance to ask questions to one of AAA’s ASE-certified automotive technicians.
For more car care tips and to find local AAA Approved Auto Repair shops, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair.