October Auto Care: Winter is Coming

As the vibrant days of summer fade and cooler weather rolls in, October is the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it needs. Proper car maintenance as fall transitions into winter can prevent costly repairs, improve performance, and ensure a safe driving experience in the months ahead. From cleaning and degreasing engine components to ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready, taking proactive steps now can save you a world of trouble when the temperatures drop.

Why October is the Ideal Month for Auto Care

Early to mid-autumn is the prime season for vehicle maintenance. As the weather shifts, certain parts of your vehicle - like fluids and tires - react to the cooler temperatures. Road hazards from rain, snow, and ice are on their way and the shorter days reduce visibility. It’s crucial to prepare your vehicle before more challenging driving conditions arrive.

Setting a habit of October Auto Care each year also cements a proactive habit of vehicle maintenance. By addressing any underlying issues now, you’ll avoid expensive repairs and breakdowns in the winter and in years to come.

The Essentials

Let’s dive into some essential maintenance tips and how WD-40_® Brand products can help ensure your vehicle is road-ready.

1. Clean and Degrease Engine Components

A clean engine not only looks great but also runs more efficiently. Dirt, grime, and grease can accumulate on engine parts, which can affect their performance over time. To keep everything running smoothly, use WD-40 Specialist_® Degreaser & Cleaner EZ-Pods, an easy-to-use solution that cuts through tough grease and leaves no residue.

Why use WD-40 Specialist Degreaser & Cleaner EZ-Pods?

• Powerful Cleaning: These pre-measured pods provide customizable degreasing power, from conventional to industrial-strength. Two pods in a 1-quart bottle is perfect for removing tough grease from engine components.
• Convenience: The pods are designed to dissolve in water, allowing you to easily mix them and apply to dirty areas without worrying about waste or overuse.
• Eco-Friendly: EZ-Pods + a reusable spray bottle reduces plastic waste from excess bottles that are discarded when empty. The formula is also biodegradable, making them a responsible choice for car care enthusiasts.

To use, simply dissolve one or two pods in warm water (view tutorial video) and apply to the desired areas of your engine with a cloth or brush. Be sure to focus on components like the engine block, valves, and gaskets. Rinse and dry thoroughly before driving to avoid any water damage.

2. Check and Maintain Fluid Levels

As colder temperatures approach, it’s important to ensure your vehicle's fluid levels are topped off and in good condition:

• Oil: Your engine oil is the lifeblood of your car, and it’s important to ensure it’s clean and filled to the proper level. Consider switching to a winter-grade oil if you live in a particularly cold area.
• Coolant: Check your coolant levels to ensure your vehicle won’t overheat or freeze. A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is typically recommended for the winter months.
• Brake Fluid: Proper brake function is critical for winter driving safety, so check your brake fluid and top it off if necessary.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Use a winter formula that won’t freeze in your windshield washer reservoir.

Regular fluid maintenance ensures your car runs smoothly no matter the weather, and it's a quick and easy process that prevents much larger issues down the line.

3. Inspect and Replace Tires

One of the most important aspects of winter driving is ensuring your tires are in excellent condition. Poor tire traction on icy or wet roads can lead to accidents, so October is the ideal time to:

• Check Tire Tread: Use the penny test by placing a penny into your tire tread. If you can see Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.
• Rotate Tires: To ensure even wear, rotate your tires according to your vehicle’s manual.
• Consider Winter Tires: If you live in an area with heavy snowfall, investing in winter tires with a deeper tread pattern can significantly improve traction and handling in snow and ice.

If the lug nuts on your tires seem hard to remove, consider using WD-40 Specialist Penetrant with EZ-Reach. This product can loosen rusted or stuck bolts & hardware with ease, and the 8-inch flexible straw helps effortlessly access tight spots.

4. Battery Check and Maintenance

Cold weather can put a lot of strain on your car’s battery, so it’s important to inspect it before winter sets in. Follow these steps:

• Check Battery Terminals: Ensure the terminals are clean, free of corrosion, and tightly connected. Corroded terminals can be cleaned using a brush and WD-40 Multi-Use Product, which is perfect for displacing moisture and protecting against rust.
• Test Your Battery’s Health: Use a battery tester or visit your local auto shop to ensure your battery holds a full charge.

If your battery is nearing the end of its life, replace it before winter to avoid getting stranded on a cold day.

5. Prepare Your Windshield and Wipers

Clear visibility is crucial when driving in rain, snow, or ice. Here’s how to prepare your windshield:

• Inspect Wipers: Ensure your windshield wipers are functioning properly and replace them if they are streaking or worn out.
• Clean Your Windshield: Use a glass cleaner or WD-40 Specialist Degreaser & Cleaner EZ-Pods to remove grime and improve clarity. If driving in areas of high precipitation, you may want to treat your windshield with a rain-repellent solution to help water bead off in rainy conditions.

6. Maintain Lights and Electrical Systems

With shorter days ahead, you’ll be relying on your vehicle’s lights more than ever. Inspect all headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they are working properly. If you notice any bulbs that are dim or not functioning, replace them immediately. Additionally, check your vehicle’s electrical system for any faults or issues that could lead to problems during the winter. Use WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner to clear dirt & debris from electrical components and help ensure optimal performance.

7. Winter Emergency Kit Preparation

Finally, prepare for the unexpected by assembling a winter emergency kit to keep in your vehicle. Some essentials include:

• A first-aid kit
• A blanket or warm clothes
• Ice scraper and snow brush
• Jumper cables
• Flashlight and batteries
• Snacks and water
• A small shovel and sand or kitty litter (for traction)

Being prepared with items you may need in a roadside emergency can make a huge difference and save on stress.

Supporting the Next Generation of Skilled Technicians 

At WD-40 Company, we’re proud to support the next generation of skilled trades professioals through our partnership with the Universal Technical Institute (UTI). UTI is a leading provider of technical education in fields like automotive technology, diesel, and welding. As a part of our collaboration, we help provide students with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their future careers.

By supporting educational initiatives, the WD-40 Brand is helping to support the future of the Skilled Trades and ensure that professionals have access to the best training and products to excel in their fields. As the torch gets passed to the next generation, we're committed to not only maintaining the high quality of our products but also empowering those who will use them in the years to come.

Pro Tip: All of the products mentioned above are from the WD-40 Specialist line, which offers superior performance solutions for both home and professional use. Whenever you’re doing auto maintenance though, having a can of the Original WD-40 formula on hand is always a good idea. So if you’re trying out our more specialized offerings, remember WD-40 Multi-Use Product is ready to be useful – even if only to spray your tools as you finish to protect them for next time.