The leaves are falling, the nights are cold, and you're beginning to wonder how many days you have left before the roads start getting icy. Now is the ideal time to get your vehicle ready for the colder temperatures that come with autumn weather. With just a little help from the seasonal experts at Herb Connolly Chevrolet, you'll be ready for whatever driving challenges the change of weather brings.
Fall Seasonal Preparation Services
Your engine houses a variety of complex systems, many of which respond to colder weather in different ways. One component that can really struggle with low temperatures is the battery. Most drivers are familiar with a battery dying on a cold morning but may not understand why it happens. The chemical processes inside the battery slow down as temperatures drop. In a battery that has already put in a few years of service, this slowing can be enough to keep it from holding a charge altogether. A battery check that measures performance will give your technician a good idea of how your battery will respond to colder weather and if you need to get a replacement to avoid a dead battery.
An overall engine inspection will catch any issues before they become exacerbated by the colder weather. Small cracks in hoses, tears in gaskets, or splits in wire housings might have unnoticeable effects now but can be enough to bring your car to a standstill as the season wears on. While under the hood, your technician will also look at fluid quality and level for things like your radiator, power steering, and windshield washer system.
Your wipers might not be up to the task of clearing heavy rain or slush from your windshield. More aggressive winter designs that feature a tougher rubber material make a good replacement for aging wiper blades.
Many vehicles now use a low-viscosity synthetic oil, a weight and blend that works nicely in colder temperatures. If you're ready to get an oil change, it's a good idea to do it before the inclement weather arrives. Not only will it have a positive impact on your engine performance, but you'll also be able to avoid the effects cold weather has on aging oil.
Your brakes are an important safety feature, and while it's best to use them sparingly in slippery conditions, you'll want them in reliable working order throughout the season. Your technician can inspect the brake pads and rotors and look at the condition and level of your brake fluid to ensure the safe operation of your brakes throughout the season.
Why Winter Tires Make a Difference
Winter tires bring plenty of benefits and may be the right choice for your vehicle. While all-season tires live up to their name by being serviceable in a variety of weather conditions, they differ in some key areas from winter tires, giving winter tires a clear advantage for Hopkinton drivers.
The rubber compounds used in winter tires should remain flexible in freezing temperatures. This aspect allows them to conform more correctly to the road's surface, providing better grip than stiffer tires. They also feature deeper, more aggressive tread patterns that excel in cutting through snow and sleet, giving them superior traction in slippery conditions. These factors improve handling, and the added traction can also shorten stopping distance. For improved safety, performance, and traction, winter tires can be a compelling choice for your treks around Ashland. Your technician can advise you on the correct type of tire for your driving needs.
A good rule of thumb when switching to winter tires is when temperatures drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit on a consistent basis. If you need more advice, please visit our Framingham service center, or contact us soon. We're eager to get your vehicle ready for fall and winter weather!