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Common Fall Car Problems and How to Prevent Them

Fall in Colorado is a beautiful time of year, with vibrant colors, crisp air, and cooler temperatures. But as the season changes, so do the challenges that your vehicle faces. From unpredictable weather to temperature drops, fall can introduce a variety of car problems—especially if you’re heading into the mountains.

Here are some common fall car issues and tips on how to prevent them:

1. Tire Pressure Drops
As the temperatures in Boulder start to cool down, your tire pressure naturally drops. Cold air causes the air in your tires to contract, which can affect your handling, fuel efficiency, and tire wear.

How to Prevent It:
Regularly check your tire pressure as the weather cools, especially if you’re planning on driving into higher elevations where temperatures fluctuate more dramatically. Proper tire pressure is critical for staying safe on the wet and potentially slippery fall roads we often see in Colorado.

2. Battery Weakness
Cold Colorado mornings can put extra strain on your vehicle’s battery. If your battery is older or already weak, you might experience slower starts or risk it dying completely.

How to Prevent It:
Have your battery tested, especially before you embark on any fall trips up to the mountains. If it’s more than three years old or showing signs of wear, consider replacing it. No one wants to be stuck with a dead battery on a chilly day in Boulder or further out in the Rockies!

3. Poor Visibility
Fall weather in Colorado can be unpredictable, bringing rain, fog, and even early snowfalls. This makes it more difficult to see the road, especially if your wiper blades or headlights aren’t in top shape.

How to Prevent It:
Replace your wiper blades if they’re streaking or not clearing the windshield properly. Check that your washer fluid is topped off, and ensure that your headlights and brake lights are functioning well. This is particularly important for those who frequently drive on winding roads of Boulder's foothills or head up into the mountains for fall adventures.

4. Engine Oil Sludge
Cooler temperatures can cause engine oil to thicken, and when paired with frequent short trips around town, it can lead to sludge buildup in your engine. This sludge reduces oil flow and can cause long-term damage to your engine.

How to Prevent It:
Stay on top of your oil changes, especially as we transition into fall. Our Premium PLUS Oil Service and Premium ULTRA Oil Service include BG additives like BG MOA and BG EPR, which are designed to keep your engine clean and running smoothly, even in Colorado’s changing fall temperatures.

5. Cooling System Issues
Fall weather can be unpredictable in Colorado, with temperatures swinging from warm to freezing overnight. If your cooling system isn’t properly maintained, this can lead to overheating or freezing, which can cause serious engine damage.

How to Prevent It:
Check your coolant levels and inspect hoses for any leaks or signs of wear. If it’s been a while since your last coolant flush, consider getting one to ensure your cooling system is ready to handle the demands of both fall and the upcoming winter in Boulder and beyond.

6. Braking Problems
Wet leaves, rain, and early snowfall can create slick road conditions around Boulder and the mountain areas. Worn brake pads or low brake fluid can increase your stopping distance, which is especially dangerous on Colorado’s steep and winding roads.

How to Prevent It:
Have your brakes inspected to ensure everything is in good working order. This is especially important if you plan on making trips to higher altitudes, where fall weather can turn tricky in a heartbeat.

Conclusion
Colorado’s fall season is a time of beauty and adventure, but it’s also a season where your vehicle needs extra care. By staying ahead of common fall car problems—whether it’s keeping up with oil changes, testing your battery, or checking your brakes—you’ll be prepared for whatever the season throws your way.

Whether you’re sticking around Boulder or planning a trip to see the fall colors in the mountains, schedule your fall maintenance with us today. We’ll make sure your car is ready for the journey ahead!

1900 55Th St Ste 104 Boulder, Colorado 80301 (303) 442-2932
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