Get Your Car Winter-Ready: Tips for National Fall Car Care Month

Preparing Your Vehicle for Winter

October is officially Fall Car Care Month, which means it’s time to get your car ready for winter. With Oklahoma’s unpredictable weather—think freezing rain one day and sunshine the next—it’s crucial to make sure your car is up for the challenge. Taking care of routine maintenance now can help you avoid breakdowns, reduce your risk of accidents, and keep your family safe on the road. Here are some easy tips to keep your vehicle in top shape this season.

Simple Car Care Checklist

While it’s always a good idea to have a professional take a look under the hood, there are plenty of maintenance tasks you can handle yourself:

Check Your Tires

Your tires are your first line of defense when the roads get slick. Make sure they’re properly inflated since cold air can cause tire pressure to drop. Don’t forget to check the tread depth, too. A quick way to do this is with a quarter—stick it between the grooves, and if you can see the top of George Washington’s head, it’s time for new tires. In Oklahoma’s unpredictable winters, good tires make all the difference.

Take a Peek Under the Hood

After a summer of road trips, it’s smart to give your car a once-over. Check all your fluid levels—oil, transmission, brake fluid, you name it. While you’re at it, look at the battery and make sure there aren’t any loose connections or corrosion. Cold weather can drain battery power quickly, so it’s better to catch any issues now.

Make Sure Your Brakes Are Up to Par

Whether you’re cruising through downtown Tulsa or driving on rural roads, having reliable brakes is a must. Listen for any weird noises like grinding or squeaking when you brake, and if you feel a delay or pulsing in the brake pedal, get them checked out ASAP. Don’t take chances when it comes to stopping power, especially on icy roads.

Test Your Wipers and Top Off Washer Fluid

Clear visibility is crucial when navigating winter weather. Replace old wiper blades and fill your washer fluid reservoir with a solution that won’t freeze. It’s a small step that can make a big difference when you’re caught in a sudden snow or ice storm.

Taking a little time now to tackle these simple tasks can save you a whole lot of stress (and money) down the road.

The Legal Side: Why Routine Maintenance Matters

Here’s something many drivers don’t think about—if you know your car has an issue and you don’t fix it, you could be held responsible if it causes an accident. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that over 40,000 accidents every year are linked to poor vehicle maintenance.

In Oklahoma, this can legally be considered negligence. If another driver’s worn-out brakes or bald tires lead to a crash that injures you, they could be on the hook for damages. The law is clear: keeping your car safe to drive isn’t just good practice—it’s a legal responsibility.

If You’ve Been Hurt, We’re Here to Help

If you or someone you love has been in an accident caused by another driver’s neglect—whether it’s due to poor car maintenance or something else—you shouldn’t have to bear the burden alone. At Aizenman Law Group, our Tulsa car accident attorneys are ready to step in and help you understand your options.

Call us today at 918-426-4878 for a free consultation. We’re here to listen, answer your questions, and help you get back on your feet. Take care of your car, drive safely, and know that if the unexpected happens, we’ve got your back.