As much as you may be looking forward to the cooler temperatures of fall, did you know your vehicle feels the shift in temperature just as much as you do? At Master Tech, we want our Santa Fe community to stay safe and prepared on the road, especially as fall transitions into winter. Cooler weather can affect your car in subtle ways that may lead to bigger problems if not addressed. But we're here to give you all the info you need to keep your car in the best shape possible! Here are five key ways cold weather impacts your vehicle—and how regular maintenance at your trusted auto shop in Santa Fe can keep you driving smoothly.
The first place you may notice a change is your tires. In fact, for every 10-degree drop in temperature, your tires can lose about 1 PSI (pound per square inch). Underinflated tires can affect your driving in many ways. Firstly, your fuel efficiency drops, which puts an extra strain on your gas budget. More urgently, underinflated tires can affect your safety with compromised traction and handling, especially on icy or wet roads.
What to do:
Check your tire pressure regularly throughout fall and winter, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. If you’re unsure, stop by Master Tech, and we’ll make sure your tires are ready for winter.
Batteries are your vehicle’s powerhouse, but they are especially vulnerable in cooler weather. As the temperature dips, the chemical reactions inside the battery slow down, reducing its ability to hold a charge. A weak battery in October could leave you stranded on a cold December morning. Here are some of the things to look out for:
Signs your battery is struggling:
What to do:
Have your battery tested before winter hits. At Master Tech, we’ll check your battery’s health and replace it if needed so you’re not left stranded in the cold!
Motor oil is your engine’s lifeblood, but cooler temps cause oil to thicken, making it harder for it to circulate and lubricate engine parts. If your oil is already old or dirty, impurities in the oil will increase that thickness, leading to ever more wear and tear.
What to do:
Fall is a great time for an oil change. Fresh oil keeps your engine running efficiently and protects it. Our technicians at Master Tech will recommend the right oil for your vehicle to keep your motor running smoothly!
Santa Fe may not see the heavy snow of other regions, but cold rain, frost, and even light snow can make roads slippery. Worn-out tires lose their grip in these conditions, which puts you at more risk of an accident.
What to do:
Check your tire tread depth before the weather turns. If your tread is below 4/32 of an inch, it’s time for new tires. Come by for a tire change or rotation so that you have traction when it matters most.
Cooler weather can pull a double-whammy on your vehicle’s systems by causing certain fluids like coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, to thicken. Rubber hoses and belts may become brittle and potentially crack. These issues often go unnoticed until something fails, leaving you with unexpected car repair bills.
What to do:
Schedule a seasonal inspection to avoid any surprises. A quick check at Master Tech ensures your fluids are at the right levels and that your belts and hoses are in good shape to handle the colder months ahead.
Too often, drivers wait until a problem arises before visiting an auto shop. By then, what a simple fix would have cured has turned into a major repair. The transition from fall to winter is the perfect time for preventative maintenance, before temperatures drop too low.
At Master Tech, we help Santa Fe drivers prepare for the colder months with tire checks, battery testing, oil changes, and complete seasonal inspections. Whether you’re worried about car problems in cold weather or just want peace of mind, our team is here to keep your vehicle safe and reliable.
Cooler weather doesn’t have to mean car trouble. We are glad to give your car a check-up. With the right care, your vehicle will be ready for whatever the season brings. Stay ahead of the chill. Schedule your fall maintenance today with Master Tech, your trusted auto shop in Santa Fe.
