As summer winds down and the weather starts to shift, now is the perfect time to give your vehicle a little extra attention. Late summer car maintenance not only helps you wrap up the hot-weather driving season—it also sets the stage for safe, smooth travel during fall’s unpredictable conditions.
At Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions, we help Maryland drivers stay ahead of seasonal wear and tear with timely maintenance that protects your vehicle year-round. Here’s your checklist to make sure your car is fall-ready.
Inspect and Replace Worn Tires
Fall means cooler temperatures, slick roads, and falling leaves—all of which can impact traction. If your tires are showing signs of uneven wear, cracks, or shallow tread depth, now is the time to replace them. A tire with less than 4/32″ tread depth may struggle to grip wet or leaf-covered roads.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to check tire pressure—it can drop as temperatures fall!
Check Your Battery Health
Summer heat puts strain on your battery, and weak batteries often fail with the arrival of colder weather. If your car has been slow to start or your battery is more than 3 years old, have it tested now to avoid the dreaded click on a cold fall morning.
Top Off Fluids
Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle. Check and top off the following:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Transmission fluid
Fall driving often means foggy mornings and early sunsets, so keeping your windshield clear with a full reservoir of washer fluid is especially important.
Inspect Your Brakes
Leaves, rain, and early frost can make fall roads slippery. Make sure your brakes are in peak condition before the season changes. If you hear squealing, grinding, or feel vibration when braking, schedule a brake inspection right away.
Test Your Heating System
Even if you’re not using it now, your heater and defroster will soon become essential. Make sure they’re working properly before the first chilly morning catches you off guard.
Replace Wiper Blades
Late summer storms and fall drizzle can seriously reduce visibility. If your wiper blades are streaking, squeaking, or cracked, it’s time for a new set. This is a simple upgrade that makes a big difference in driver safety.
Have Your Transmission Checked
Hot summer temperatures and long road trips can take a toll on your transmission. If your vehicle has been shifting oddly or if it’s overdue for a fluid change, late summer is the perfect time for a full transmission check-up.
Look Over Belts and Hoses
Rubber components like belts and hoses can degrade in high heat. Before fall sets in, inspect them for signs of fraying, cracking, or bulging—especially the radiator and serpentine belts.
Stay Ahead of the Season with Ken’s
Routine maintenance now can prevent breakdowns and costly repairs later. At Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions, we make fall prep easy with complete vehicle inspections, expert diagnostics, and trusted repair services—all under one roof.
Ready to get your car fall-ready? Schedule your late summer maintenance check with Ken’s today and drive into the next season with confidence.
