After a summer of road trips, beach trips and camping trips, you have one more trip to make: to get your vehicle ready for the fall weather and road conditions to come.
"We've noticed that people were out on the road, busy enjoying summer, and maybe missed a servicing or two. Now we're seeing more breakdowns as that catches up to them," says Mani, manager of Mission Automotive & Tread Pro Tire Centre. "The last thing you want is to be broken down on the way to work or to a weekend hockey tournament."
The right preventive care takes the stress out of autumn driving and can save you money – and not only from those tow truck fees. Regular maintenance will keep your vehicle running efficiently, highlight potential issues before they become big (and expensive) problems and will keep your family and others safe on the road. Here's what you need to know:
- Shorter days and fall rains can make it harder to see. Ensure your wipers are in good shape and that all your lights are clear and working.
- Rain makes roads extra slick and slippery after our long, dry summer. It's important to keep your tires properly inflated, and check the tread for signs of wear. Remember, too, that come Oct. 1, winter tires – or those with M&S ratings, will be required on many B.C. highways.
- As temperatures cool, it's time to prepare your vehicle for the Fraser Valley weather with the appropriate coolants, windshield washer and other fluids. Cooler temperatures can also be harsher on your vehicle's battery, so check that it won't let you down once the mercury drops.
- Whether you were towing the boat or navigating dusty mountain roads, summer driving can put extra wear-and-tear on your brakes. A brake inspection will ensure you can stop when you need to, even on those slick surfaces.
Regular vehicle maintenance isn't only about avoiding frustrating breakdowns, A well-maintained vehicle will last longer, use less gas and be safer on the road.
At the same time, with technology governing just about every facet of today's vehicles, it's essential to look for a centre with the equipment, experience and qualified technicians to do the job right, Mani notes. Mission Automotive & Tread Pro Tire Centre, for example, is an ICBC-accredited facility that has proudly served drivers in Mission and the surrounding communities since 1972!
Learn more at missionauto-downtown.com To book your next servicing, call 604-826-3669 or text 604-332-0367.