Our Essential Guide to Car Care for The Australian Autumn and Winter 

December 19, 2024

You’re not the only one feeling the chill this autumn, as the weather cools down, it’s time to give your car some extra attention.

As the leaves start to change colour and the temperature begins to drop, now is the time to give your car some TLC to ensure it’s ready to tackle the challenges it’s going to face over these colder months. .

From unpredictable weather to road hazards, preparing your vehicle for the colder months is crucial to helping you stay safe on the road.

Preparing Your Car for Autumn & Winter

Colder Weather Maintenance Checklist

Autumn is a transitional season, and offers a great opportunity to address any lingering issues from the summer months, while also getting your car ready for colder temperatures.

Here’s a checklist of tasks to tackle:

1. Check Your Fluids:

Ensure your engine oil, coolant, and washer fluid levels are topped up to cope with cooler temperatures and increased demands on your vehicle.

2. Inspect Your Tires:

Look for signs of wear and tear, and consider switching to winter tires for improved traction on wet or icy roads, especially if you drive in rural areas where roads may not be as well maintained.

3. Test Your Lights:

With shorter days and longer nights, make sure all your lights are working correctly, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators.

4. Replace Wiper Blades:

Autumn brings rain and fallen leaves, so replace worn wiper blades to maintain clear visibility in challenging conditions.

5. Check Your Battery

Cold weather can put extra strain on your battery, so have it tested to ensure it’s in good condition and replace it if necessary.

Road Safety Tips for Colder Months

Autumn and winter bring unique challenges to Australian roads, from foggy mornings to icy patches in colder, rural regions. Here are some things to be wary of:

Wet Weather Hazards:

Autumn brings increased rainfall, leading to slippery roads and reduced visibility. Drive cautiously and increase your following distance to avoid accidents.

Foggy Conditions:

Fog can reduce visibility to dangerous levels, especially in low-lying areas and near waterways. Use fog lights if your car is equipped with them and drive at a safe speed.

Watch Out for Wildlife:

With shorter days, animals may be more active during dawn and dusk, increasing the risk of collisions. Kangaroos especially can pose a real problem as it gets darker earlier, with most kangaroo collisions happening in the winter months.

So be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife crossing the road, especially in rural areas.

Check Road Conditions:

Before embarking on a long journey, check road condition reports for any closures or hazards due to weather events like flooding or landslides.

Tanner Auto Repairs: Your Partner for Cold Weather Car Care

For reliable and experienced auto servicing tailored to all Australian conditions, trust Tanner Auto Repairs. With over 25 years in the industry, our team has truly seen it all.

Whether you need a standard car service, tyre repairs or roadworthy testing, we’ve got you covered. Book in now here or call us on 9417 4587 to schedule your appointment and keep your car running smoothly through the changing seasons.

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