Back To School Car Maintenance At V&F Auto In Agawam, MA

Posted on September 26, 2022 in Auto Repair

School is in session! Is your vehicle ready for all the carpools, sports, and after-school and weekend activities you're doing this fall? With cooler weather creeping up on us, it’s important to make sure that your car is prepared to keep up with the extra activities and the change in weather. Our Back To School Car Maintenance list highlights the different areas of your car that you should pay special attention to this month.

Oil Change

Oil changes help to preserve your vehicle’s engine and protect your wallet. When you adhere to a regular oil change schedule, you’ll notice a marked improvement in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and performance—and you'll notice that you’re dropping less money at the gas tank. Effective engine lubrication will also prevent the engine from overworking and overheating—without proper lubrication, the friction of your engine can wear down engine parts and force your vehicle into early retirement.

Filters

The increase in traveling over the summer often increases the amount of debris entering your car's filtration system, which can lead to trouble at the end of the season. Our techs have all of the filters your car needs to keep it running smoothly. Whether you need oil filters, cabin filters, fuel, coolant, or transmission filters, we can check and change the proper ones that are specific to your vehicle.

Fluids

From topping off the fluid for your windshield wipers and coolant to oil changes and transmission flushes, our ASE-certified technicians can help with all of the necessary fluids your car needs. We can also recommend products specific to your vehicle and your driving, to help maximize your vehicle's performance and longevity.

Headlights

As the days get shorter, it’s important to make sure you have working lights. Check that the bulbs won’t need replacement bulbs or restoration anytime soon and that your lenses are clean.

Tires

As temperatures drop, it’s important to check your tires. Cooler air will make them lose pressure, so it’s important to make sure tires are properly inflated. This will give you the best grip possible on slippery roads. You should also check your treads, to make sure you’ll have optimal traction as things start to get slick and icy.

Heating System

No one wants to be stuck shivering in the bitter New England cold. You should make an appointment to have your heating system checked in mid to late fall, before the really cold weather hits. This way they can prep your car for colder temps, with plenty of time to make any repairs or replacements.

Brakes

Fall tends to bring drizzly days, and roads covered in wet leaves. Schedule brake service to ensure you have maximum stopping power when you're out and about in the rain.

Windshield Wipers

Streaky wipers are a huge hazard, especially on slick roads. Apply a small amount of washer fluid (or hot, soapy water) to a clean rag or paper towel and wipe all dust and dirt off the edge of your wiper blade. Then wipe the edge of the clean wiper blade with a small amount of rubbing alcohol to remove any soapy film or residue that is left on the rubber. While cleaning you should always check the blades for damage, and get them replaced if necessary.

At V&F

From oil changes and brake repair to engine services and transmission repair, V&F can handle all of your Back To School Car Maintenance needs. All of our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Call us at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.