Okay–we are still pretty far from the fall. The hot days aren’t over Lake Forest Park! But it's essential to ensure that your Subaru is ready for the changing weather conditions, whether just in mind by making your appointment or by saving up for your services in budget. At Suburb Service, we specialize in maintaining and repairing Subaru vehicles to keep them running smoothly and safely. With the wet and potentially icy conditions that fall can bring, your Subaru's braking system and tires are critical components to focus on. Here are some important tips to keep you safe on the roads this fall.
Braking System Maintenance
Your Subaru’s braking system is crucial for safe driving, especially in the fall when roads can become slippery with rain and fallen leaves. Proper brake maintenance ensures that your vehicle can stop effectively, reducing the risk of accidents.
1. Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors Regular inspection of your brake pads and rotors is essential. Worn brake pads can reduce braking efficiency and increase stopping distances. If you hear squealing or grinding noises when you brake, it’s time to have your brakes checked. At Suburb Service, we can inspect and replace your brake pads and rotors to ensure optimal performance.
2. Check Brake Fluid Levels Brake fluid is vital for the proper operation of your braking system. Low or contaminated brake fluid can lead to brake failure. Make sure to check your brake fluid levels regularly and top them up if necessary. If the fluid is dark or has debris, it may need to be flushed and replaced. Our technicians can perform a brake fluid flush to keep your braking system in top condition.
3. Test Brake Response Pay attention to how your brakes respond. If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, or if your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it’s crucial to have your brakes inspected immediately. These symptoms can indicate issues with the brake lines, calipers, or master cylinder, all of which are critical for safe braking.
Tire Care and Maintenance
Tires are your Subaru's only contact with the road, making their condition vital for safety and performance. With the wet and potentially slippery conditions of fall, having the right tires in good condition is essential.
1. Check Tire Tread Depth Adequate tread depth is necessary for maintaining traction on wet and slippery roads. The minimum legal tread depth is 2/32 of an inch, but it’s advisable to replace your tires before they reach this point. Use a tread depth gauge to check your tires, or look for the built-in tread wear indicators. If your tread is worn down, it’s time to invest in new tires.
2. Monitor Tire Pressure Cold temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop, affecting handling and fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Properly inflated tires provide better traction, improve gas mileage, and reduce the risk of a blowout. You can find the recommended tire pressure in your Subaru’s owner manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.
3. Consider All-Season or Winter Tires If you frequently drive in wet or icy conditions, consider switching to all-season or winter tires. These tires are designed to provide better grip and handling in adverse weather conditions. All-season tires offer a good balance of performance in various weather conditions, while winter tires provide superior traction on snow and ice. At Suburb Service, we can help you choose the best tires for your driving needs and install them for optimal safety.
Additional Safety Tips
While brakes and tires are critical, there are other aspects of your Subaru that should not be overlooked for fall driving safety.
1. Align and Balance Tires Proper alignment and balancing ensure even tire wear and improve handling. If your vehicle pulls to one side or you feel vibrations in the steering wheel, it’s time to have your alignment and balance checked.
2. Inspect Windshield Wipers Fall weather often brings rain, and having clear visibility is crucial. Inspect your windshield wipers and replace them if they are worn or leave streaks. Good wipers are essential for maintaining clear vision during heavy rains.
3. Ensure Adequate Lighting With shorter days and longer nights, make sure all your vehicle’s lights are functioning correctly. Check headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure you can see and be seen by other drivers.
Make an Appointment
Preparing your Subaru for fall driving conditions is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road. At Suburb Service in Lake Forest Park, WA, we specialize in Subaru maintenance and repair, ensuring your vehicle is ready for any weather. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for brake and tire inspections, or any other service your Subaru needs. Stay safe this fall with Suburb Service.