5 Ways the Fall Season Can Take its Toll on a Car

In many areas of the continental United States, the deteriorating weather conditions can exert extra strain on many of a car’s essential components. The extra work we often ask our cars to do in bad weather conditions can hasten wear and tear, and that can, in turn, lead to mechanical failures and adverse driving conditions. With a program of preventive maintenance and regular servicing, you can minimize the risk of mechanical failure when the weather takes a turn for the worse. 

1. Extra Drain on the Battery

As the temperature drops and the rain starts to become more frequent, a battery’s power output drops, as well as its ability to recharge. Also, because the bad weather increases the load on a battery due to wipers, lights, heating and blowers being used more often, a battery can quickly become flat.

2. Cracked or Split Windshield Wipers

It stands to reason that an increase in precipitation will put an increased strain on your windshield wipers, and when the frost and ice arrive, that damage could become more frequent. Faulty wipers and wiper blades can restrict your field of vision, so have them replaced immediately. 

3. Radiator Problems

Toward the end of fall and the beginning of winter, icy weather will usually start to rear its ugly head. If your radiator isn’t full and treated with anti-freeze, the water inside it could freeze, and that can lead to your engine overheating. The constant freezing and thawing could also permanently damage your radiator, so it is important to check your water and anti-freeze levels on a regular basis.

4. Faster Wear and Tear on Brakes

Braking distances will be drastically increased during spells of wet weather, and that can mean your brakes are working far harder than might normally be the case. Brakes are also less efficient when they are cold, and this can put a greater strain on them. Have your brakes serviced according to your car’s manual, adjust your speed and increase the distance between you and the car ahead in wet conditions. 

5. Faster Wear and Tear on Tires

Wetter weather conditions will usually mean your tires are subjected to more braking, and that can quicken wear and tear. Consider rotating your tires throughout the fall and winter to ensure that tire wear is even.

Cars and their moving parts generally find life harder in colder driving conditions, so it is important to allow for this by modifying your driving style. If you can maintain your car regularly, however, you should be able to keep it in good working order and away from collisions. 

If you would like to discuss car maintenance and how it could relate to your own Raleigh auto insurance, call ACF Insurance today at 919-661-1100.