As the leaves start to change color and the air turns crisp, it's time for Conyers drivers to start thinking about preparing their vehicles for the fall season. At Gibbs Automotive, we've been helping our neighbors in Conyers, GA, get their cars ready for autumn for years. In this guide, we'll share our expert tips on how to ensure your vehicle is in top shape for the cooler months ahead.

Why Fall Car Preparation Matters in Conyers

While Conyers doesn't experience extreme winter conditions like some parts of the country, the transition from summer to fall still brings changes that can affect your vehicle. Cooler temperatures, increased rainfall, and shorter days all impact your car's performance and your driving conditions. By taking the time to prepare your vehicle now, you can ensure safer, more comfortable driving throughout the fall and winter months.

1. Check and Change Your Oil

As we head into fall, it's crucial to ensure your engine oil is in good condition. At Gibbs Automotive, we recommend checking your oil level and condition regularly. If you're due for an oil change, fall is the perfect time to do it. As temperatures drop, your engine oil thickens, which can make it harder for your engine to turn over. Fresh, clean oil of the right viscosity will help your engine start easier and run more efficiently in cooler weather.

2. Inspect Your Tires

Proper tire maintenance is crucial year-round, but it becomes even more important as we enter the wetter fall season. Here in Conyers, we often see an increase in rainfall during the autumn months. To ensure good traction on wet roads:

• Check your tire pressure regularly. Cooler temperatures cause tire pressure to drop.
• Inspect your tire tread. The minimum tread depth should be 2/32 of an inch.
• Consider rotating your tires if you haven't done so recently.
• If your tires are showing significant wear, think about replacing them before the wet weather sets in.

At Gibbs Automotive, we're always happy to perform a thorough tire inspection and advise you on whether it's time for a rotation or replacement.

3. Test Your Battery

Car batteries often die in the winter, but the problem usually starts in the fall. As temperatures drop, your battery has to work harder to start your engine. At Gibbs Automotive, we recommend having your battery tested at the start of fall. If it's more than three years old or showing signs of weakness, it might be time for a replacement. Don't wait until you're stranded with a dead battery on a chilly Conyers morning!

4. Check Your Lights

With daylight hours decreasing, you'll be using your lights more often. Take some time to check all your exterior lights:

• Headlights (both low and high beams)
• Taillights
• Brake lights
• Turn signals
• Fog lights (if equipped)

Make sure all bulbs are working and that your headlights are properly aligned. If you notice any dimming or yellowing of your headlights, consider having them restored or replaced. Good visibility is crucial for safe driving, especially on those foggy fall mornings we sometimes get here in Conyers.

5. Inspect Your Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid

Fall in Conyers often means more rain, which means your windshield wipers will be getting a workout. Inspect your wipers for any signs of wear or damage. If they're leaving streaks or not making full contact with your windshield, it's time for a replacement.

Don't forget to top up your windshield washer fluid as well. At Gibbs Automotive, we recommend using a washer fluid with de-icing properties to help clear your windshield on those chilly fall mornings.

6. Check Your Brakes

As road conditions become more unpredictable in the fall, having properly functioning brakes is more important than ever. Listen for any squealing or grinding noises when you apply the brakes. If you notice any unusual sounds, vibrations, or if your brake pedal feels soft, bring your car to Gibbs Automotive for a thorough brake inspection.

7. Test Your Heater and Defroster

Before the real cold sets in, take some time to test your car's heater and defroster. Turn your heater on full blast and make sure warm air is coming through all vents. Then, test your front and rear defrosters to ensure they're working properly. A properly functioning defroster is crucial for safe driving in cooler, damper weather.

8. Inspect Belts and Hoses

The transition from hot summer temperatures to cooler fall weather can be tough on your car's belts and hoses. Inspect these components for any signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, the expert technicians at Gibbs Automotive can perform a thorough inspection for you.

9. Check Your Coolant

Your car's coolant (also known as antifreeze) doesn't just prevent your engine from overheating in summer – it also prevents it from freezing in winter. As we head into fall, it's a good idea to check your coolant levels and condition. If you can't remember the last time you had a coolant flush, it might be time for one. At Gibbs Automotive, we can check your coolant's condition and perform a flush if necessary.

10. Prepare an Emergency Kit

While we hope you never need it, it's always a good idea to have an emergency kit in your car. As the weather becomes more unpredictable, consider putting together a kit that includes:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Blanket
• Snacks and water
• Ice scraper
• Basic tool kit

Having these items on hand can make a big difference if you find yourself in an unexpected situation.

Schedule Your Fall Maintenance Check at Gibbs Automotive

While many of these checks can be done at home, nothing beats a professional inspection. At Gibbs Automotive, we offer comprehensive fall maintenance checks to ensure your vehicle is ready for the cooler months ahead. Our skilled technicians will inspect all crucial systems of your vehicle and address any issues before they become major problems.

We understand the unique needs of Conyers drivers, and our fall maintenance service is tailored to address the specific challenges our local climate presents. From checking your battery's cold cranking amps to ensuring your tires are ready for wet roads, we've got you covered.

Don't wait until the leaves have all fallen to prepare your car for autumn. Schedule your fall maintenance check with Gibbs Automotive today. We're conveniently located in Conyers, GA, and we're committed to keeping you and your vehicle safe on the road all year round.

Remember, a little preparation now can save you a lot of hassle (and potentially costly repairs) down the road. Trust Gibbs Automotive to help you welcome the fall season with confidence, knowing your vehicle is in top shape and ready for whatever the Conyers weather might bring.



Drive safe, stay warm, and enjoy the beautiful fall season in Conyers