Blog: Prepare Your Car For Autumn!

As the leaves turn golden and the air takes on a crisp edge, autumn brings its unique driving challenges. The changing weather conditions mean it's time to prepare your car for the road ahead.

Whether it's foggy mornings, wet leaves on the road, or cooler temperatures, a few simple checks and adjustments can keep you safe and comfortable this season.

Here are seven essential tips for maintaining your car in autumn.

1. Prepare for the Fog

Autumn mornings often greet us with low-lying fog, creating a mystical atmosphere—ideal for a moody photo shoot, but not so much for your morning commute. Fog can reduce visibility, and combined with damp roads, it becomes a potential hazard.

Before you set off on your next journey, check the condition of all your vehicle's bulbs, especially your headlights, fog lights, and taillights. You might not have used them much during the long summer days, so it’s easy to forget their importance. Give them a thorough once-over to ensure they’re in working condition and replace any that are dimming or burnt out. This will help you see and be seen by others, keeping you safe when the fog rolls in.

2. Keep Your Windscreen Clean

Your car may seem clean, but don’t underestimate the dirt buildup on your windscreen. As the season changes, both inside and outside surfaces can accumulate dust and grime, which can increase condensation inside your car—a common autumn annoyance.

Make sure to regularly clean both sides of your windscreen. Use a specific car window cleaner for the best results, but if you’re on a budget, a standard glass cleaner and some elbow grease will do the job. Keeping your windows crystal-clear reduces glare and fogging, giving you the best visibility possible, even in tricky conditions.

3. Always Have Sunglasses Handy

Autumn can be a season of surprises. One minute, it's bright sunshine; the next, the sky is overcast with drizzle. Low autumn sunlight, especially during the morning and evening, can be particularly harsh and blinding. Your car's sun visor helps, but it might not be enough.

A good pair of sunglasses will cut through the glare and keep you focused on the road. Choose lenses that offer adequate protection from UV rays, and make sure they’re comfortable for long drives. Plus, if you have a cool pair that stands out, even better—you'll look great and drive safer!

4. Check Your Wipers

Although the summer months saw their fair share of rain, they were also warm and dry in many areas, giving your windscreen wipers a bit of a break. Now, with the return of frequent showers, they’re back in action, and you’ll need them in tip-top shape.

Give your wipers a quick inspection. Look for any signs of wear, cracks, or splits in the rubber. If they’re leaving streaks or squeaking across your windscreen, it’s time to replace them. Fully functional wipers are a must to maintain a clear view during downpours, so don’t neglect this simple but crucial task.

5. Check Your Tyres

As we move into the wetter months, tyre maintenance becomes even more essential. Wet roads, combined with fallen leaves, can become slippery hazards, making tyre grip crucial.

The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but it’s wise to have at least 3mm in the autumn and winter months to give you extra traction on wet or icy roads. Make sure to regularly check your tyre pressure as well—underinflated tyres can reduce grip and make your car harder to handle.

6. Drive at an Appropriate Speed

This might seem like an all-year-round rule, but in autumn, driving at a safe speed becomes even more critical. The ever-changing weather can make road conditions unpredictable—fog, rain, and wet leaves can reduce visibility and increase stopping distances.

Always adjust your speed to suit the conditions and maintain a safe distance from the car in front. If the road is slippery and your car starts to skid, resist the urge to slam on the brakes. Instead, ease off the throttle and steer in the direction of the skid to regain control.

7. Check Your Fluids

As the temperatures begin to drop, it’s important to keep an eye on your car’s fluid levels. Your engine coolant plays a vital role in maintaining a stable engine temperature, especially as the colder weather sets in. Top up your coolant, ensuring it has the right mix of antifreeze to protect against the cold.

Don't forget about your washer fluid either. Autumn can be a messy time on the roads with mud, dirt, and leaves, so keeping your windscreen clear is key. Make sure you have plenty of washer fluid on hand and that it’s topped up regularly.

Autumn driving brings unique challenges, but with these maintenance tips, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle whatever the season throws your way. Take the time to inspect your car, make necessary adjustments, and drive with caution. Stay safe and enjoy the beautiful fall scenery from the comfort of a well-maintained vehicle!