Fall in East Texas can be a little unpredictable. You might leave home on a cool morning in Lufkin and end up running the air conditioning that afternoon. October highs average around 80°F, and November highs are still around 70°F. Rain is common in both months, too, so your vehicle needs to be ready for wet roads and changing temperatures.
If your car spent the summer sitting in hot parking lots or making regular trips around town, now's a good time to check a few things. You don't need to replace parts that are still in good shape, but it's worth checking for wear before heading into another season.
Take a Look at Your Tires
Your tires have dealt with hot pavement for months. Take a look at them before your next road trip. Do you see cracks, bulges or spots that look more worn than the rest?
Check tire pressure when the tires are cold, using the recommended pressure on the sticker inside your driver's door. Temperature changes can affect pressure, so don't assume your tires are properly inflated just because they looked fine a few weeks ago.
A few other things to check:
- Tread: Worn tread makes it harder for tires to grip wet roads.
- Rotation: Follow your vehicle's recommended schedule to help prevent uneven wear.
- Spare tire: If you have one, check its pressure, too.
With all the rain Lufkin gets in the fall, worn tires are worth taking seriously. You don't want to discover they're struggling in the middle of a downpour.
Visit Our Tire Center
Is It Time for an Oil Change?
If you can't remember your last oil change, check your service records. Engine oil gradually breaks down as you drive, and going too long between changes can contribute to engine wear.
Your owner's manual explains how often your vehicle needs an oil change and which type of oil to use. Your driving habits also affect your maintenance schedule.
While you're at it, check your other fluids. Coolant still does an important job after summer, and you'll want enough windshield washer fluid to deal with road spray (e.g., after a rainstorm or a drive along a muddy road).
Not sure how to check these levels? A technician can help.
Don't Ignore Your Brakes
Pay attention to how your vehicle feels when you press the brake pedal. Squealing, grinding, vibration or pulling to one side can signal a problem. A pedal that feels unusually soft deserves attention, too.
A brake inspection lets a technician check the brake pads, rotors and other components for wear. If you've noticed anything unusual, don't wait months to have it checked.
Good brakes are important year-round, especially when you're trying to stop on wet pavement.
Schedule a Brake Inspection
Check Your Battery, Lights and Wipers
These are easy things to overlook when your vehicle seems to be running just fine. A few quick checks can help you avoid an inconvenient breakdown or a visibility problem.
- Battery: Watch for slow engine starts or corrosion around the terminals.
- Lights: Check your headlights, taillights and brake lights.
- Wipers: Replace blades that leave streaks or skip across the glass.
- Air filters: Check whether your engine and cabin air filters need replacing.
Pay particular attention to your wipers. When rain starts coming down in Lufkin, you need them to clear the windshield properly. If you're struggling to see through the streaks, don't wait until the next storm to replace them.
Test Your Heating and Air Conditioning
You probably haven't forgotten about your air conditioning after a Texas summer! But have you tried the heater lately?
Turn it on and check whether warm air comes through the vents. Then switch back to the air conditioning to make sure it's still cooling properly. Strange smells, unusual noises or weak airflow are reasons to have the system checked.
Lufkin's fall temperatures can swing between morning and afternoon, so you may need both systems in the same week. It's better to discover a problem now than on the first cold morning when you need the heat.
Get Fall Service at Wright GMC
You don't have to figure out every car maintenance task on your own. At Wright GMC in Lufkin, our service center can help you determine what your vehicle needs before the season gets underway.
Our GMC Certified Service technicians offer multi-point vehicle inspections, oil changes, tire service and brake work. An inspection can help identify worn components or problems you might not notice during your daily drive.
Not sure what's due? Talk with our service team. We can help you review your vehicle's maintenance needs and decide what needs attention.
Schedule a fall service appointment at Wright GMC in Lufkin. We'll help you get your vehicle ready for East Texas roads and whatever the weather brings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I check my tire pressure in the fall?
Check tire pressure when the tires are cold, using the recommended pressure on the sticker inside your driver's door. Temperature changes can affect pressure, so don't assume your tires are properly inflated just because they looked fine a few weeks ago.
How often does my vehicle need an oil change?
Your owner's manual explains how often your vehicle needs an oil change and which type of oil to use. Your driving habits also affect your maintenance schedule.
What are the signs my brakes need to be checked?
Squealing, grinding, vibration or pulling to one side can signal a problem. A pedal that feels unusually soft deserves attention, too.
When should I replace my windshield wiper blades?
Replace blades that leave streaks or skip across the glass. If you're struggling to see through the streaks, don't wait until the next storm to replace them.
How can I tell if my car battery is getting weak?
Watch for slow engine starts or corrosion around the terminals.
How do I test my heater and air conditioning before winter?
Turn it on and check whether warm air comes through the vents. Then switch back to the air conditioning to make sure it's still cooling properly. Strange smells, unusual noises or weak airflow are reasons to have the system checked.
Where can I get fall vehicle service near Lufkin, TX?
At Wright GMC in Lufkin, our service center can help you determine what your vehicle needs before the season gets underway. Our GMC Certified Service technicians offer multi-point vehicle inspections, oil changes, tire service and brake work.