Care for your ride during Fall

Pumpkins, warm apple cider, the cooler weather, and the leaves changing colors are some of the best aspects of the fall season. An aspect that isn't typically thought of during fall is automobile care. However, this is something very important especially considering the volume of drivers out there. In 2023, the total number of licensed drivers in Ohio was more than 8.5 million, and according to the National Transportation Safety Board, each year, about 33,000 tire-related passenger vehicle crashes occur, resulting in about 19,000 injuries. Checking tires, according to Brett Moes, owner of Moes Body Shop in Fostoria, is something vehicle owners should pay attention to during the fall. Additional important steps include inspecting tire tread depth, with at least 2/32" for safe traction on wet or leafy roads, and replacing worn tires. Checking tire pressure is also important especially with drops in colder temperatures. Moes also suggested switching to all-season or winter tires for those who live in an area with significant temperature drops or early snow. The cold weather reduces car battery efficiency, so testing batteries is also something to pay attention to during the fall. Most auto shops will do this service for free. Moes also stated cleaning corrosion from terminals and ensuring the connections are tight are helpful for batteries. He suggested replacing batteries older than 3 to 5 years if they are showing signs of weakness. Another feature to inspect are car wipers and fluid. Replace worn wiper blades, typically every 6-12 months, for clear visibility in rain or fog. Top off windshield washer fluid with a formula rated for freezing temperatures to handle frost and road grime. As the daylight gets shorter in the fall, Moes further suggested checking car lights. This includes testing all headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals. He also recommended cleaning lenses and replacing any burnt-out bulbs to improve visibility in early dusk or foggy conditions. In addition, with the fall weather, testing the heater and defroster to ensure that those features work such as to clear windshield fog is another aspect to pay attention to. Moes suggested that if airflow is weak, check or replace the cabin air filter. Checking brakes is another important step to ensure auto care. As the wet leaves and rain can make roads slippery, it is important to have brake pads, rotors, and fluid inspected. Moes said to pay attention to any squealing or grinding noises, and to address those issues promptly. Inspecting the cooling system, also recommended by Moes, includes ensuring antifreeze levels are adequate and the coolant is a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze for cold weather protection. Additionally, to check hoses and belts for cracks or wear, and flush the system if it hasn't been serviced in 2 to 3 years. Additionally, checking fluid levels is helpful during the fall. This includes engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid levels. Moes suggested to change oil if it is due, and use the manufacturer recommended viscosity for colder weather. Moes also stated to top off power steering fluid if applicable. An overlooked auto care recommendation is to clean and protect the car exterior. Moes stated car owners should wash and wax their vehicle to protect the paint from falling leaves, sap, and road salt. In addition, to prevent clogs, car owners should clear debris from under the hood and around wiper bases. Lastly, Moes shared that preparing an emergency kit for vehicles would be beneficial to have for the fall season. This kit should include items such as a blanket, flashlight, batteries, jumper cables, first-aid kit, water, snacks and a phone charger. Additionally, vehicles should contain a small shovel, ice scraper, and de-icer for unexpected early snow or frost. "People really need to understand that your vehicle is only going to perform as good as you take care of it. Your vehicle is one of the few big purchases that you make in your life that depreciates in value, and by not repairing damage caused by wear and tear or collision only makes the vehicle worth less when you go to sell it or trade it in," Moes said. Moes prides himself in offering the best collision repair in the tri-county area as well as ensuring customers with the best technology to repair vehicles. Moes Body Shop has been open for 77 years, and is a fourth-generation run business.