We will be closed on July 4th in Observance of Independence Day!
By Samantha Gomez, Service Drive ManagerDid you know that October is the official Fall Car Care Month designated by the Car Care Council? Car Care months are designed to bring awareness and attention to the importance of regular car care and preventative maintenance.
In the fall, we can expect falling leaves and falling temperatures. Getting your vehicle ready for these conditions is important. Before you know it, cooler weather will be here. You know, sweater weather!
Here are some items that you should have checked and inspected as the hot Texas summer months can take a toll on our vehicles.
1) Check your fluids– Much like your body, your vehicle needs fluids to keep it running. Assuring your oil is topped off is important for internal engine lubrication and other components. Coolant mixture content and level is important to help keep your vehicle cool to avoid overheating concerns. Washer fluid is a must to keep your driving visibility clear.
2) Check your tires and pressures – As we work our way into the cooler temperatures, cold air can cause your tires to lose air. Colder air is denser, which makes your vehicle less aerodynamic; and lower tire pressures can increase your rolling resistance. This is one reason why it is important to have good tread on your tires.
3) Check your battery – Did you know that a battery in lower temperatures produces less current than in higher temperatures? That is why it’s important to assure your battery is in good health. The last position anyone would want to be in is stuck in the cold. At Hewlett VW, we will check your battery for you anytime at no cost.
4) Wipers – Wipers are most important and most forgotten. In a lot of cases wipers are replaced when they fall apart. But why wait till then? Damaged wipers can lead to visibility concerns and often result in a scratched windshield that must be replaced. At Hewlett Volkswagen, we will happily install new windshield wipers for you. At minimum, it Is best to replace your wiper blades once a year.
5) Brake system– Slippery weather is around the corner. Keep your brakes functioning by inspecting them for wear. Brake fluids should also be checked regularly for moisture content percentage. If moisture content is high this can contaminate the system. A contaminated brake system will impair a vehicles ability to stop and may cause corrosion to system components.
6) Lights – It’s important to check all exterior lights, brake lights, headlights, license plate lights, hazard lights, etc., at least once each year. As the days become shorter, you may find yourself depending more on your vehicle’s lighting system. It is important for you to be able to see and the people around you to be able to see you.
7) Pack a winter car care kit – Be better prepared for obstacles and/or emergencies. A winter car care kit should contain: a flashlight and extra batteries, roadside kit, umbrella, blanket, hat and gloves, water, multi-tool, first aid kit and ice scraper.
8) Schedule time for fall car care– It is always easy to talk about taking care of our vehicles but the most important thing is getting it done!
Feel free to take advantage of our Complimentary Pit Stop Service or Multi-point Inspection. We would be happy to check any of these items for you, anytime! No appointment necessary, no purchase required. We look forward to seeing you!
Safe travels.
