Fall is well underway here in Chesterfield, Oakville, Saint Louis, and Bridgeton, MO, which implies a lot of things. Obviously, I am not simply talking about colder weather and pumpkin pie. It also means that it is time to make your vehicle ready for the cool months of late fall and winter. You might be thinking that you can wait a while since the weather has not turned hazardously frigid yet, however that would be a mistake. To start with, that would be a mistake because it is never too soon to prepare to drive safely so you do not wind up needing an auto body shop in Saint Louis, MO. Second, why wait until it is cold outside before you get out there and begin working on your automobile? Are you among those folks who set up their Christmas lights in October? While that may look really goofy, it can make it much easier down the road when other people have to climb up ladders and attach lights while their fingers feel like they are falling off. Getting your vehicle prepared for wintertime driving is the exact same thing besides the fact that it does not look silly whatsoever.
So, do not delay until it is too late. Take these measures to get your car ready to roll on those late fall chilly mornings. These suggestions are offered by Car Craft Auto Body in Saint Louis, MO.
Replace and Refill
Certainly there are a number of things in your automobile that will wear and specific fluids that need to be refilled. Certainly, you will want to change the oil on your automobile to prepare for wintertime. While you are doing that, do not neglect to change the oil filter as well. You ought to be switching out the oil filter every time you change the oil. You would also do well to take a look at the air filter too. If that gets too dirty, your automobile will need to work too hard in order to have proper airflow. Fortunately, there is an easy way to check for whether your air filter requires replacing. Simply hold it up to a sixty watt lightbulb and see if the light makes it through. If not, it is time for you to obtain a new air filter.
Nothing is so annoying and can send you to an auto body shop quicker than fluids which are not filled. Without a doubt, oil is the big one here. Nonetheless, there are other fluids to consider as well. Have a look at the coolant levels when the motor is cold and refill it to the optimal level with a half and half solution of water and coolant. This will be a great help to you whenever the weather gets cool. Also, be sure to have a look at the transmission fluid, the brake fluid, the power steering fluid, and the washer fluid. Performing a simple once-over with all these things is the easiest way to keep your car or truck healthy.
Dings and Dents
While you are inspecting your vehicle, it is the very best opportunity to examine the exterior for any imperfections. Most little dents may be easily fixed through paintless dent repair at Car Craft Auto Body. Larger dents and scratches that pierce the paint are even more urgent to be fixed. The moisture and saltiness when driving during winter will feast upon your automobile if you do not have those dents and scratches fixed. The best way to spot those kinds of blemishes is to totally wash your vehicle and give it a comprehensive inspection.
While you are evaluating your vehicle’s exterior, take a look at the lights. Make certain that all of them are functional, from the parking lights and brake lights to the headlights, taillights, and emergency flashers. Inspect your high beams also. Obviously, make certain to fix all of the lights which are not functioning, either by switching out the bulb if that is what is needed or by digging into the wiring if required. You should also look into the possibility of going to an auto body shop in Saint Louis, MO with headlight restoration capabilities. They can clear up your headlights for a low cost and immensely improve your visibility.
Brakes, Breaks, and Batteries
When the weather gets cold and the weather gets inclement, the first line of defense of your car is the tires and brakes. If your tires look worn or the wear bars are visible, have them changed. If your brakes are squealing, have them checked out as well. As the weather gets colder and colder, your tire pressure will systematically reduce, so have that topped off regularly. If your heater is damaged, that is something to take a look at too. You will need to have a working defroster system to keep safe on the road.
Batteries are something which many people disregard whenever they are prepping their car for winter, However, that would be a huge mistake. It is strongly advisable to have the battery and charging system inspected by an auto body technician. Before you even do that, you may be able to tell if your battery will have to be replaced by looking for corrosion anyplace in the battery system. If the weather is cold, your battery is especially susceptible to going dead.
To close out your fall tune-up, simply have a glance beneath the hood and just take a look around for anything questionable. Leaks are a very obvious sign that something has to be fixed. Likewise, fraying hoses, cracks, or loose clamps will also need to be addressed. Take a look at the drive belts as well and listen for any inexplicable engine noises. If you have any complications in this regard, take your car to an auto body shop to have it looked at.
Car Craft Auto Body has been helping drivers in Saint Louis, Missouri get ready for the cold months of wintertime for years. If you require mechanical work, headlight restoration, auto body repair, or any other work on your vehicle, consider taking it to their auto body shop.