With the autumn season upon us and winter on the horizon, now is the ideal time to get your vehicle ready for cold weather driving. Some basic fall maintenance can go a long way in keeping you safe on Silver City roads. At Smith Ford, conveniently located at 412 East Motel Drive in Lordsburg, NM, our expert service technicians are ready to get your car or truck in optimal shape for the winter months ahead.
Consider Winter Tire Care
One of the most important steps you can take to prepare your vehicle for winter is switching to a dedicated set of winter tires, or preparing your current pair for the changing temperatures. As the weather gets colder around Silver City and the surrounding areas, the rubber compounds in all-season and summer tires can stiffen up and lose traction. Winter tires are specially engineered to maintain their grip and flexibility even in freezing temperatures, providing much-needed traction on cold, snowy or icy roads.
If you're not using your all-season tires in the winter months, be sure to store them properly to maximize their lifespan. Clean the tires thoroughly, place them in airtight plastic bags, and keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. When spring rolls around again, our service team at Smith Ford can quickly swap your winter tires back out for your regular set.
If you choose not to go with a pair of winter tires, our team would be happy to help you maintain your current set of tires with a routine rotation, tire pressure check, and other regular tire services. Routine tire care is essential for safe driving.
Keep Up with Regular Oil Changes
As part of your fall vehicle maintenance, don't overlook the importance of staying current with oil changes. Motor oil is the lifeblood of your engine, lubricating moving parts and preventing damage from friction and overheating while you’re driving around Santa Clara and beyond. Over time, oil breaks down and accumulates contaminants, reducing its ability to protect your engine. This is especially critical in winter, as cold starts and lower temperatures place additional strain on your motor.
Check your owner's manual for the recommended oil change interval for your specific make and model. Many newer vehicles can go 5,000-7,500 miles between changes under normal driving conditions. However, if you frequently take short trips around town in Santa Clara or do a lot of stop-and-go driving, you may need to change your oil more often. When in doubt, the friendly service advisors at Smith Ford are happy to provide expert guidance.
Don't Forget About Your Brakes
Your car's brakes are one of its most critical safety features, and they require extra attention before the winter season hits. Worn brake pads, warped rotors, and leaking brake fluid can all impair your ability to stop safely, especially in wet or icy conditions. As part of your fall service at Smith Ford, have our technicians thoroughly inspect your braking system for any potential issues.
Some common signs that your brakes may need service include squealing or grinding noises, vibrations in the steering wheel or brake pedal, and a spongy or unresponsive feeling when braking. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't wait until winter to get them checked out. Regular brake maintenance can help prevent more costly repairs down the line and keep you secure behind the wheel.
Schedule Your Fall Service Appointment Online
At Smith Ford, we're committed to helping our customers stay safe on the roads all year round. As the leaves start to change color and the temperatures drop, now is the perfect time to bring your vehicle in for fall maintenance at our state-of-the-art service center in Lordsburg, NM. From winter tire changeovers to oil changes, brake inspections, and beyond, our skilled technicians will ensure that your car or truck is ready to handle whatever Old Man Winter throws your way. Contact us online today to schedule your appointment and enjoy peace of mind this upcoming winter season.