How to Ready Your Car for Fall Road Trips: Seasonal Safety Checks

Fall is the perfect time to embark on scenic road trips, with cooler weather, changing leaves, and quieter roads. But before you hit the highway, ensuring your vehicle is properly prepped is crucial for a safe and smooth journey. Here at Express Auto Repair in Colorado Springs, CO, we’ve got your back with our fall road trip prep guide, covering essential seasonal car safety checks to help you avoid any unwelcome surprises along the way.

Seasons Change, So Should Your Safety Checks

The shift from summer to fall brings unique driving conditions, such as cooler temperatures, shorter days, and potentially slick or wet roads. Fall also introduces more debris on the road, like fallen leaves or branches, which can impact tire traction. If you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long drive through Colorado’s scenic mountains, a thorough vehicle inspection for fall is crucial for your safety.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Tires

Your tires are the only point of contact between your car and the road, so giving them extra attention before a fall road trip is crucial. As the weather cools, tire pressure tends to drop, which can lead to poor fuel efficiency, uneven wear, or even tire failure.

What to do:

• Check tire pressure: Use a gauge to ensure your tires are properly inflated based on your car’s manual.
• Inspect tread depth: Perform the penny test. If you can see all of Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires.
• Rotate tires: Regular rotations prevent uneven wear and improve handling.

Pro Tip: If you’re driving in areas with early snow or freezing, consider switching to all-season or winter tires for better grip on wet or icy roads.

2. Check Your Battery Health

Fall weather can drain your car’s battery faster, especially if it’s weak. Before your trip, make sure your battery is in good shape to avoid being stranded with a dead engine.

Signs your battery may need attention:

• Slow engine crank when starting the car
• Dim headlights or interior lights
• Corrosion around battery terminals

3. Inspect Your Brakes

Brakes are one of the most important safety components in your vehicle, especially when driving in wet or unpredictable fall weather. A proper seasonal car safety check should always include a brake inspection.

Key things to check:

• Brake pads and rotors: Ensure they’re not worn.
• Brake fluid levels: Low levels may indicate a leak.
• Brake performance: If you hear squealing or feel vibrations, it’s time for a check.

Having properly functioning brakes gives you peace of mind, knowing you can safely stop your vehicle in unexpected situations.

4. Check Your Lights and Wipers

Fall brings shorter days and possible rain, so it’s important to make sure your lights and wipers are working for safe visibility.

What to inspect:

• Headlights and brake lights: Ensure they’re bright and functioning.
• Wiper blades: Look for any cracks or signs of wear.
• Washer fluid: Refill with a solution that can handle cold temperatures.

Pro Tip: If headlights seem dim or foggy, upgrading to LEDs or cleaning them can improve nighttime visibility.

5. Test Heating and Defrosting Systems

A working heating system isn’t just for comfort—it’s essential for safety. Proper defrosting keeps your windshield clear in cold weather.

Before heading out on your trip, test:

• Heater: Make sure the car’s heating system is blowing warm air.
• Defroster: Check that the defroster works to keep the windshield free from fogging and ice buildup.

If you experience any issues, visit our experts at Express Auto Repair for a thorough inspection and repair.

Bonus Tip: Pack an Emergency Road Kit

Even with the most thorough road trip car care, unexpected situations can arise. Prepare for the unexpected by packing an emergency kit that includes essentials such as:

• A spare tire, jack, and lug wrench
• Jumper cables
• Flashlights with extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Blanket, water, and non-perishable snacks
• A portable phone charger

This kit can be a lifesaver in the event of an emergency, ensuring you’re equipped to handle minor issues or unexpected delays.

Trust Express Auto Repair for Fall Road Trip Prep in Colorado Springs

Whether you’re gearing up for a long fall drive or just need peace of mind, Express Auto Repair is here to help. We offer thorough vehicle inspections, tire rotations, brake checks, and battery tests to ensure your car is road-ready.

Visit us at:

• 5360 Montebello Ln, Colorado Springs, CO 80918 | (719) 358-9109
• 3655 Galley Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80909 | (719) 630-8729

Schedule your fall road trip prep appointment today on our website or stop by one of our convenient locations!