Autumn Vehicle Care

Autumn Vehicle Care – Regular vehicle maintenance is a key factor to driving safely in Alaska. Prepare your car for the change of season before the weather turns really cold. For those experiencing they first Alaskan winter, check your vehicle now and confirm it’s winterized.

Getting Started At Home

Autumn vehicle care starts at home. Be sure your defroster and heaters are working well. Alaska’s winters are cold. If it takes a long time to warm up your car, you may want to make an appointment to have your heating system repaired.

Wiper blades wear down over time and may need replacing after so much use during the rainy summer Alaska had this year. Replace wiper blades that streak, smear, or squeak.

Check levels of wiper fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant. Refill low fluids using the appropriate thickness and mixtures for cooler temperatures.

Finally, check under your hood for any signs of wear or damage. Check for frayed belts, brittle hoses, and cracks or leaks. Also, be sure the battery and electrical systems are in good working order as part of your autumn vehicle care.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Sometimes autumn vehicle care is more complex than the average person’s skill levels. Schedule an appointment to have winter tires put on your vehicle as soon as possible. Consider local laws and weather forecasts prior to scheduling your tire change. Some places only allow studded tires during a specific time because of their potential to damage roadways. Minimally, be sure the air pressure in your tires is safe for colder weather and icy roads.

Always hire a professional for recommended 30/60/90 maintenance. Furthermore, make an appointment for potential problems such as dashboard warning lights, strange noises, and steering or brake issues. Additionally, complex issues like transmission, internal engine works, and electrical system malfunctions require specialized knowledge and tools that only a professional mechanic can provide. 

Car Maintenance For A Safer Alaska

Help keep yourself and others safe on the road this season by winterizing your vehicle as part of your autumn vehicle care . A few extra tasks could help save you from an accident, auto damage and a costly insurance claim. 

Johnson Law has been serving Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your serious injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Source: Alaska Service Agency; and Drive Safely: Winterizing your vehicle: Where to start

Image Source: Sudsy Salmon Car Wash – Eagle River, Alaska