Fall is coming, folks, to be followed by winter. Now is the time to get the car(s) ready for the bad weather. I know times have been tough, with gas being over $3 a gallon for the better part of the summer; with kids back to school, which seems to get more and more expensive every year, especially those who have kids in college. Mine all graduated several years ago, but I remember how expensive it was then. I can’t believe how much it is now. I see it in my business. Customers that were normally great on preventive maintenance have let things slide. I can’t fault them one bit. Money’s tight. When gas (oil) inflates as fast as it did in such a short time, it is felt throughout the economy.

But face it, winter is coming. So if it’s in the budget, now is the time to get the fleet ready for the inclement weather.

Start with the battery. A very easy and quick test will reveal its shape. It’s called a load test, and what it does is mimics you starting the car. A battery’s cranking power is less in cold weather than in warm, so this test will reveal if battery problems are on the horizon before you come out some cold winter’s morning. A starting and charging test follows the battery load test. A starter generally requires 250-350 amps to turn over (rotate) an engine, depending on displacement. Anything higher means starter problems. Next, the alternator is then placed under a load to test its output. The test simulates you using the radio, windshield wipers, headlights, et cetera. If the alternator is on its way out, your mechanic will be able to tell by amperage and voltage outputs.

Now is the time to tune up the engine if it hasn’t been done or it has over 80,000 miles on it. Again, this is preventive maintenance. I’m preaching here. Check the antifreeze. Again, over 80,000 miles or two years since it was done, now would be the time. No, antifreeze does not last 100,000 miles as advertised. Check the belts and hoses at this time as well. Replace as needed. There’s nothing worse than standing by the side of the road with a broken belt or hose. It’s not just the inconvenience but the damage it could do to your engine.

You’ve had the lights, front end, and tires checked if it’s been inspected recently, so you have a clue here what does and doesn’t need attention. Replace the windshield wipers. They’re cheap and easy to install. Do it now!!! If you use snow tires, have them mounted and balanced and put on in November.

These are suggestions to help you through the winter. Who knows if it will be mild or brutal. You know the old adage: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! If you have an owner’s manual with your vehicle, look at it. See what else the manufacturer recommends.

Yours in trouble-free driving!

Neil Corcoran is the owner/operator of Neil’s Auto Repair & Sales in Kingston Center and is an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician with L1 Certification/Mass. State Emissions Repair Technician.