As temperatures begin to cool and daylight hours grow shorter, AAA Western and Central New York is encouraging motorists to make vehicle maintenance a priority during Car Care Month this October.

Many of the most common roadside emergencies can be prevented through routine vehicle maintenance. Taking time now to inspect key vehicle systems can improve safety, enhance performance, and reduce the risk of an unexpected breakdown during the fall and winter months ahead

“Preventive maintenance is one of the easiest ways drivers can protect themselves from a roadside breakdown,” said Kevin Fortner, Manager of Fleet Operations at AAA Western and Central New York. “Simple checks such as testing your battery, inspecting your tires, and replacing worn wiper blades can help keep your vehicle running safely and reliably as the weather becomes more challenging.”

To help ensure vehicles are road-ready this season, AAA recommends the following maintenance checks:

• Battery and Charging System: An average vehicle battery typically lasts three to five years. Cold weather can significantly reduce battery performance, making fall the ideal time to have your battery and charging system tested before winter arrives.
• Tires and Traction: Properly inflated tires with adequate tread depth are essential for safe driving on wet, snowy, or icy roads. Worn tires are more likely to lose traction and hydroplanes during adverse weather conditions.
• Suspension and Alignment: A poorly maintained suspension or misaligned wheels can accelerate tire wear and negatively affect vehicle handling, especially during winter driving conditions.
• Braking System: Inspect brake fluid levels and have your braking system checked regularly. Proper brake performance is critical for maintaining control and stopping safely in changing weather conditions.
• Fluid Levels: Check essential vehicle fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Address any leaks promptly, as they can impact vehicle performance and safety.
• Vision and Visibility: Replace worn wiper blades and ensure headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals are functioning properly. Reduced daylight, rain, fog, and snow can make visibility especially important during the fall and winter months.
• Emergency Kit: AAA recommends keeping an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle year-round. Include a cellphone charger, flashlight, jumper cables, water, snacks, extra gloves, blankets, and a basic toolkit in case of an emergency.

Find a Trusted Repair Facility

Motorists can identify reliable, high-quality repair shops by looking for the AAA Approved Auto Repair designation. Approved facilities meet strict standards for customer service, technician training, equipment, cleanliness, and workmanship. To locate a nearby

AAA Approved Auto Repair facility, visit AAA.com/AutoRepair.

For more vehicle maintenance tips and information about the AAA Approved Auto Repair program, visit AAA.com.

Join Our Automotive Team

AAA is also hiring dependable individuals to join its automotive team. Full- and part-time opportunities are available for roadside technicians. Learn more about available positions at https://westerncentralnyaaa.com/careers.