1. Monitor the temperature
If the engine cooling system thermostatic valve stays open or fails to close properly, even a careful, experienced driver may not notice during warm weather unless a temperature gauge is present. In cold weather, the engine may run too cool, making it harder to heat the cabin and increasing fuel consumption. Temperature can be controlled more reliably by connecting a simple ELM 327 scanner to the OBD II port and installing a compatible app on a smartphone. This diagnostic tool can also verify the performance of other systems.
Some vehicles show inaccurate temperature readings on the gauge; actual temperatures can differ by as much as 20 degrees.
2. Check the battery
A hydrometer is not advised for this purpose. However, terminals should be inspected and the voltage checked with the engine off and with it running using a basic tester. The ELM 327 scanner can handle this check as well.
With the engine off and loads removed, terminal voltage should be around 12.5 to 12.6 V. When the engine is running, expected voltage ranges from 13.6 to 14.3 V.
3. Inspect the chassis
Start by examining the protective boots on ball joints, steering joints, and CV joints. Dirt and water entering through cracks in rubber accelerate wear. The boot and joint may need replacement, while the CV joint can sometimes be preserved after cleaning and re-greasing, followed by a new boot. The overall recommendation is to inspect every component of the chassis because water will find any hole it can reach.
The protective boot is one of the most important parts because it shields the steering system from dirt and moisture. If damage goes unnoticed, the assembly may require replacement.
4. Protect the body
After frequent summer highway trips, the front surfaces of the car such as the bonnet and fenders often accumulate chips. It is wise to address those in the fall since road salt and chemicals in winter accelerate corrosion on unprotected metal. Chips on the windshield should also be repaired or the glass replaced before frost, as rapid heating in winter can cause cracks. It is also important to clean the cavities under the windshield and behind the front wheel arch trim where leaves, seeds, and road grime can hold moisture and promote corrosion.
The amount of dirt behind the front fender liner can be surprising, sometimes weighing several kilos. Regular cleaning helps prevent rust and preserves structural integrity.
The front axle area relies on protective components to keep dirt out of the steering gear. If signs of damage are missed, parts may require replacement sooner than expected.
5. Improve visibility
Fall nights grow longer and fog can be common. Focus on lighting performance, especially low beams that cast a clear, bright patch about 20 to 25 meters ahead. Ensure headlight alignment and any manual or automatic lens correction features operate correctly.
Wipers should be replaced as the rubber hardens in heat, reducing glass cleaning efficiency. It helps to keep windshield washer fluid topped up, and to add diluted antifreeze to avoid nozzle freeze up during the first cold spell.
Leaves and debris can clog the air box under the windshield, causing window fogging in wet conditions since the air conditioner draws air from this space. Interior glass can accumulate a film over time, especially with smoking; clean the inside with a glass cleaner that has ammonia for a crystal clear result.
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Photo: Depositphotos and Behind the wheel