Is Your Car Ready for Autumn? Essential Checks for the Months Ahe

The evenings are getting darker, temperatures are beginning to drop and wetter weather is becoming much more familiar.

October is a good time to give your car a little extra attention.

A few simple checks now can help you spot potential problems before the colder months arrive — and make sure your vehicle is ready for everything autumn driving has to offer.

Here are some of the areas worth checking.

1. Check Your Lights

With fewer daylight hours, your headlights, brake lights and indicators become even more important.

Take a few minutes to make sure every exterior light is working correctly and check that the lenses are clean.

It can be easy to miss a failed bulb when you’re behind the wheel, so asking someone to help you check your brake lights can be useful too.

Government guidance recommends checking that all vehicle lights are working before driving.

2. Give Your Tyres Some Attention

Wet roads make good tyre condition particularly important.

Check for visible damage or uneven wear and make sure your tyre pressures are set correctly for your vehicle.

For cars and light vans, the legal minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its entire circumference.

The legal minimum is just that — a minimum — so if you have any concerns about the condition of your tyres, it’s worth having them professionally checked.

3. Don't Forget Your Wipers

If your wipers are leaving streaks, juddering across the windscreen or failing to clear water properly, it may be time to replace them.

Good visibility becomes especially important when rain, spray and darker journeys are added into the mix.

While you're there, make sure your screenwash is topped up too.

4. Check Your Battery

Cold weather can expose a battery that is already beginning to struggle.

Signs such as slower starting, electrical issues or a battery warning light shouldn't be ignored.

If you're unsure about your battery's condition, having it checked before winter arrives could save you from an inconvenient non-start on a cold morning.

5. Make Sure Your Service and MOT Are Up to Date

Regular servicing isn't simply about changing the oil.

At County Garage, servicing covers important areas including brakes, tyres, steering and suspension, helping identify wear or potential problems before they become more serious.

If your MOT or service is approaching, October is a good opportunity to get it booked before the busiest part of winter.

More Than Just a Service

When your Ford comes into County Garage, it is looked after by Ford-trained technicians using specialist equipment and genuine Ford parts.

Every service also includes a video eCheck, giving you a clearer view of your vehicle's mechanical condition, together with a complimentary wash and vacuum. Eligible Ford servicing includes Roadside Assistance too.

And if finding time to bring your car to us is difficult, we offer several courtesy options including collection and delivery, courtesy cars, lifts home or to work and waiting appointments, subject to availability and applicable charges.

Ready for the Months Ahead?

Your car works hard throughout the year, and a little preventative attention can make a real difference as driving conditions change.

If you'd like us to check something you're unsure about, or your vehicle is due a service or MOT in Herne Bay, our team is here to help.

Book your service or MOT with County Garage and head into autumn with confidence.