Fall Car Care: What to Check Before the Cold Sets In

We’d all like our cars to be less demanding, but in the face of rainy autumns and harsh winters, that wish is hardly realistic. Dirt, dampness, cold snaps, and road salt put vehicles through a new stress test every year. A car that starts effortlessly in summer can suddenly refuse to fire up in freezing weather. So, what other headaches await drivers as the seasons change, and what should you inspect (or replace) right now? Let’s break it down.

Ideally, you should schedule maintenance before winter even if the official service interval hasn’t come due yet. That way, you’ll know your car is prepared for whatever the weather throws at it.

Skipping fall prep is basically an invitation to breakdowns and roadside trouble. Even a simple checkup and replacing worn-out parts can extend your car’s life, lower the risk of malfunctions, and most importantly, keep your drives safe.

Tires

Don’t wait until mid-December—switch to winter tires in the fall, as soon as the temperature starts hovering near freezing. If your current set has lasted more than four or five years, it’s time to shop for new ones.

When choosing replacements, size and speed rating matter, as does striking the right balance between softness and tread type. The best choice depends on your climate, road conditions, and driving habits. Friction tires, for example, work well in cities with mild, low-snow winters. For wetter regions with lots of slush, look for tread with wide, deep grooves that channel water away. If you often head out of town or drive on heavily snow-covered roads, consider “Scandinavian” style winter tires with a more aggressive tread pattern.

Spark Plugs

Cold starts are tough on the ignition system. Worn or dirty spark plugs may fail to spark at all. That’s why it’s smart to check them in the fall and replace them if needed. It’s a low-cost fix that will keep your engine from complaining on frosty mornings.

Battery

Next up: the battery. In freezing weather, chemical reactions inside slow down, cutting efficiency. A battery can lose up to 30% of its capacity in the cold—even if it’s fairly new. To avoid being stranded on a snowy road, keep an eye on its charge. And if your battery is older than three years, consider recharging it or replacing it altogether.

One more tip: pop the hood once in a while to inspect the terminals. A white or greenish deposit usually means corrosion, which should be cleaned promptly.

Windshield Washer Fluid

Remember that summer washer fluid freezes at around 32°F? If you don’t swap it out ahead of time, you could end up with clogged nozzles and frozen lines—both safety hazards. It’s best to choose a winter formula rated to at least -4°F.

Wiper Blades

Since we’re talking visibility, check your wiper blades. Worn ones are easy to spot—they leave streaks, struggle with wet snow, chatter across the glass, or lift off at higher speeds. If you see any of those signs, buy a fresh set. Even better, opt for winter-specific blades with a protective cover that prevents the joints from freezing.

Coolant/Antifreeze

Finally, make sure your coolant is topped off (with the same brand and type) or replaced before freezing weather sets in. Over time, antifreeze loses its protective properties and can let your engine freeze in the cold. Old coolant may also accumulate sediment and rust, damaging both engine and radiator. While you’re at it, inspect the hoses for cracks or blockages.

As you finish your fall prep, give the whole car a once-over: check oil levels, replace filters, lubricate locks, inspect seals, and make sure all bulbs are working.