As summer fades and fall arrives in Tennessee, it’s time to prepare your vehicle for the changing seasons. Cooler temperatures, wet leaves, and eventual winter weather can take a toll on your car if it’s not properly maintained. At Exhaust Plus Auto Center, we want to help you keep your vehicle running smoothly all season long.

Here are our top fall car care tips to ensure your vehicle is ready for autumn and the colder months ahead.

1. Check Your Battery

Cold weather is hard on car batteries. As temperatures drop, battery power decreases significantly. If your battery is more than three years old or showing signs of weakness, fall is the perfect time to have it tested.

What to watch for:

  • Slow engine cranking
  • Dimming headlights
  • Dashboard warning lights
  • Corroded battery terminals

Our technicians can perform a complete battery test and clean any corrosion from the terminals to ensure reliable starts when temperatures drop.

2. Inspect Your Tires

Proper tire maintenance is crucial for safe driving in fall and winter conditions. Wet leaves can be as slippery as ice, and you want to ensure your tires have adequate tread depth and proper inflation.

Fall tire checklist:

  • Check tire pressure monthly (it drops as temperatures fall)
  • Measure tread depth (should be at least 4/32″ for wet conditions)
  • Look for uneven wear patterns
  • Inspect for cracks, bulges, or punctures
  • Consider rotating tires if it’s been 5,000-7,000 miles

The “penny test” is a quick way to check tread depth: insert a penny into the tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time for new tires.

3. Test Your Heating System

After months of air conditioning, your heating and defrost systems need attention. A functioning heater isn’t just about comfort—it’s essential for keeping your windshield clear and maintaining visibility.

What we check:

  • Heater core function
  • Blower motor operation
  • Defrost effectiveness
  • Coolant levels and condition
  • Thermostat operation

If you notice weak heat output, strange smells, or foggy windows that won’t clear, schedule a heating system inspection.

4. Replace Windshield Wipers

Fall brings rain, and winter brings snow and ice. Worn wiper blades can seriously compromise your visibility and safety. Most experts recommend replacing wiper blades every 6-12 months.

Signs you need new wipers:

  • Streaking or smearing
  • Chattering or skipping
  • Split or cracked rubber
  • Missed spots on the windshield

Don’t forget to check your washer fluid level and switch to a winter formula that won’t freeze.

5. Check All Fluids

Multiple fluids keep your vehicle running properly, and fall is an excellent time to check them all.

Essential fluids to inspect:

  • Engine Oil: Fresh oil flows better in cold weather
  • Coolant/Antifreeze: Protects against freezing and overheating
  • Brake Fluid: Critical for safe stopping
  • Power Steering Fluid: Keeps steering smooth
  • Transmission Fluid: Ensures proper gear shifting
  • Differential Fluid: Important for 4WD/AWD vehicles

If any fluids are low, dirty, or past their service interval, now is the time to address it.

6. Inspect Your Brakes

With wet leaves, rain, and eventually ice on Tennessee roads, your brakes need to be in top condition. Fall is an ideal time for a comprehensive brake inspection.

Our brake inspection includes:

  • Brake pad thickness measurement
  • Rotor condition assessment
  • Brake fluid level and condition
  • Caliper operation
  • Brake line inspection

Warning signs like squealing, grinding, vibration, or a soft brake pedal should never be ignored.

7. Test Your Lights

With shorter days and earlier sunsets, you’ll be using your lights more frequently. Make sure all exterior lights are working properly.

Lights to check:

  • Headlights (low and high beam)
  • Tail lights
  • Brake lights
  • Turn signals
  • Reverse lights
  • License plate lights

Consider upgrading to brighter bulbs if your headlights seem dim, and have your headlight aim adjusted if needed.

8. Examine Belts and Hoses

Cold weather can cause worn belts and hoses to crack or fail. A broken belt or burst hose can leave you stranded and potentially cause engine damage.

What we look for:

  • Cracks, fraying, or glazing on belts
  • Proper belt tension
  • Soft spots or cracks in hoses
  • Secure hose connections
  • Signs of leaks or seepage

Most belts and hoses should be replaced every 60,000-100,000 miles or when showing wear.

9. Clean and Protect Your Vehicle

Fall preparation isn’t just mechanical. Protecting your vehicle’s exterior and interior helps maintain its value and appearance.

Fall detailing tips:

  • Wash and wax to protect paint from road salt later
  • Clean out debris from cowl vents and drainage channels
  • Vacuum interior and check floor mats
  • Touch up any paint chips to prevent rust
  • Apply rubber protectant to door seals

A thorough cleaning now makes winter maintenance easier and helps prevent rust and corrosion.

10. Prepare an Emergency Kit

Fall weather can be unpredictable. Having an emergency kit in your vehicle provides peace of mind.

Essential items to include:

  • Jumper cables or portable jump starter
  • Flashlight with extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Blanket
  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Basic tools
  • Phone charger
  • Bottled water and non-perishable snacks

Schedule Your Fall Maintenance at Exhaust Plus Auto Center

Don’t wait for problems to appear. Preventive maintenance now can save you from breakdowns and costly repairs later. Our ASE-certified technicians have the expertise and equipment to thoroughly inspect your vehicle and address any issues before they become major problems.

Fall car care isn’t just about preparing for colder weather—it’s about ensuring your safety and the reliability of your vehicle year-round. Whether you need a complete fall inspection or have specific concerns about your vehicle’s performance, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your fall maintenance appointment:

  • Phone: (931) 388-8411
  • Location: 102 W 5th St, Columbia, TN 38401
  • Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Keep your vehicle running smoothly all season long with expert care from Exhaust Plus Auto Center—serving Columbia, Tennessee since 2001.