(423) 243-3502

    5482 Little Debbie Parkway

    Ooltewah, TN 37363

    (423) 479-3365

    4651 North Lee Hwy

    Cleveland, TN 37312

    Bracing for Those Fall Storms: Car Care Tips for the Rainy Season
    Bracing for Those Fall Storms: Car Care Tips for the Rainy Season

    Fall is a season of changing colors that brings along unpredictable weather, especially in the southern regions. As rain pours down, Tennessee drivers face the challenge of navigating slippery, wet roads. To ensure both your safety and your vehicle's longevity during this rainy season, here are some essential car care tips tailored for Southern adventurers.


    1. Tire Pressure Shifts: Even in the South, where winter is milder, temperature fluctuations can impact your vehicle. Keep an eye on your tire pressure, as it tends to drop in colder weather. Under-inflated tires can reduce traction on wet roads, so make sure your tires are properly inflated to ensure a safer drive.


    2. Tire Tread Checks: When it comes to wet fall roads, adequate tire tread is your best friend. Worn-out treads can compromise your grip on the road, leading to potential accidents. Stay safe and stop by Premier Tire anytime for a free check of your tire tread depth.


    3. Fluids: As summer transitions into fall, take a moment to assess your vehicle’s essential fluids. Coolant, oil, and transmission fluid are the lifeblood of your car, especially during sudden weather changes. Ensure your coolant is at the right level and that your oil and transmission fluids are clean. This will prevent overheating and ensure smooth gear shifts even in wet conditions.


    4. Brake Inspections: The picturesque sight of wet leaves on the roads can be treacherous for drivers. Wet leaves reduce traction, making it crucial to have reliable brakes. Regularly inspect your brake pads and rotors, replacing them if they show signs of wear. Additionally, check your brake fluid levels to guarantee responsive braking, a necessity during the rainy season.


    5. Visibility: Shorter days and potential rain demand optimal visibility. Check your windshield wipers and lights, ensuring they are in top shape. Replace worn-out wipers and any malfunctioning lights promptly. Clear visibility is not just a convenience; it’s a safety necessity.


    6. Protecting Your Car's Exterior and Interior from Excess Moisture: Invest in a good-quality car cover to shield your vehicle from the elements when parked outdoors. Additionally, combat interior dampness by placing moisture-absorbing products, such as silica gel packets, inside your car. Regular cleaning and waxing create a protective barrier, safeguarding your car from moisture and contaminants.


    7. Road Trip Essentials: A Checklist for Southern Adventurers:

    • Emergency Kit: Flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, and basic tools.
    • Spare Tire: Ensure it's in good condition and you have the necessary tools for changing a flat tire.
    • Jack and Tire Iron: Functional and suitable for your vehicle’s specifications.
    • Water and Snacks: Adequate supply for emergencies.
    • Phone Charger: Stay connected, especially during road trips.
    • Maps or GPS: Both physical maps and GPS devices for navigation.
    • Insurance and Registration: Up-to-date documents stored in the car.
    • Full Tank of Gas: Start your trip with a full tank to avoid fuel-related issues.


    As you gear up for fall storms in the South, these car care tips and road trip essentials will not only enhance your driving experience but also ensure that you and your vehicle stay safe during the rainy season. Happy and safe driving!


    Call Premier Tire & Auto Service today to ensure your car is ready for Fall travel.


    Recent Posts

    A person is changing a tire on a car.
    October 22, 2024
    Rotate your tires every 5,000-8,000 miles to ensure even wear, extend lifespan, and improve performance. Learn how tire rotation impacts safety and efficiency.
    A person is working on the underside of a car.
    July 29, 2024
    Learn about suspension control arms and their crucial role in your vehicle's suspension system. Get expert insights on how they work and maintenance tips from Premier Tire.
    A bunch of summer tires are lined up in front of a car
    June 24, 2024
    In this article, we'll guide you through the top 5 summer tires that can enhance your car's performance. We'll explore brands like BFGoodrich and Continental and discuss what makes their summer tires stand out.
    A man is pumping gas into a car at a gas station.
    May 29, 2024
    Considering regular gas for your premium gas car? The Premier Tire Blog breaks down the potential impacts, offering expert advice to help you decide what's best for your vehicle's performance and health.
    May 1, 2024
    If your car's temperature gauge enters the red zone while driving, it means your car is overheating. This situation can be stressful for any driver, potentially causing inconvenience or even danger. Understanding why it happens can help you prevent harm. Low coolant levels are often the main culprit since coolant helps regulate engine temperature. When there's not enough coolant, heat dissipation becomes inefficient, leading to overheating. Leaks in the cooling system can also cause difficulty in maintaining the correct temperature. If your car is leaking coolant, it might come from the radiator or hoses. Other Common Failure Points in Your Vehicle's Cooling System Another common cause is a faulty thermostat, which regulates coolant flow. If it malfunctions, either staying closed or open when it shouldn't, overheating can occur. Cooling fan issues can also play a role, especially if the fan fails to activate or doesn't work correctly. This can reduce airflow over the radiator, particularly when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly, leading to overheating. Other issues, such as a blocked radiator, engine oil problems, a misfiring engine, or a faulty water pump, can cause overheating. Regular maintenance and quick problem-solving can help your car run smoothly and prevent overheating during driving. How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Water Pump or Thermostat? If your car is overheating and requires a new water pump and thermostat, you may wonder about the cost. Knowing this in advance allows you to budget accordingly and make an informed decision. Typically, replacing both components simultaneously ranges from $500 to $1000, covering parts and labor. There's often no additional labor cost when replacing both components together, making it a cost-effective choice. When replacing both the water pump and thermostat, choose high-quality parts that are compatible with your car for optimal results. Despite a potentially higher initial investment, selecting reliable components and professional installation can prevent future overheating concerns. This approach can save money and improve cooling system performance by replacing both components together, streamlining the labor process. Risks of Driving Your Car at High Operating Temperatures Driving your car when it's overheating can be dangerous for you and your vehicle. It's crucial to stay safe. High temperatures can cause engine parts to wear out faster, leading to costly damage or engine failure. When a car overheats, it can cause important fluids like oil to degrade faster, potentially damaging the engine. Driving at high temperatures can also reduce the efficiency of your car's cooling system, putting more strain on the engine. Furthermore, overheating can cause warped cylinder heads or blown gaskets, leading to leaks and more engine damage. It can also result in stress cracks in the engine block, leading to further expensive repairs. In extreme cases, driving a severely overheating car can even pose a fire hazard. It's vital to fix overheating problems promptly and avoid driving your car when it's too hot. Doing so can help you avoid costly repairs and keep you safe while driving. Importance of Regular Vehicle Inspections It's essential to have your car's cooling system checked regularly, typically every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or at least once a year. Regular checks help prevent overheating and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Technicians inspect parts like the radiator, hoses, water pump, thermostat, and coolant levels for damage, leaks, or rust. Fixing small problems early can save money and extend the life of your engine and cooling system. Regular maintenance improves how your car runs and saves fuel. It also gives you peace of mind, knowing your car is ready for daily driving. How to Prevent Car Overheating An overheating car is worrisome, but knowing the causes can help you address the problem quickly and effectively. Regular maintenance, like checking coolant levels and inspecting for leaks, can help prevent overheating issues. Ensure components like the thermostat and water pump are functioning correctly. If your car keeps overheating, it's crucial to see a mechanic right away. They can diagnose the issue and fix it before it leads to bigger problems or becomes dangerous while driving. Stay vigilant and take care of your car to avoid overheating issues and ensure a smooth ride on the road. For those in the Ooltewah and Cleveland, TN, area, consider visiting Premier Tire & Auto Service for comprehensive vehicle inspections and expert repairs. Our experienced technicians can help you resolve overheating problems or any other vehicle issues, ensuring your car stays in peak condition. Stop by Premier Tire & Auto Service today and keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently! By staying vigilant and proactive about maintenance, you can avoid the frustrations of overheating and enjoy a reliable and safe driving experience.
    April 1, 2024
    As summer approaches and temperatures begin to climb, ensuring your car's air conditioning system is ready becomes essential for a comfortable driving experience. At Premier Tire & Auto Service, we understand the importance of a reliable AC system, which is why we've put together this guide to help you get your vehicle ready to tackle the summer heat. 1. Schedule a Professional Inspection: Start your summer preparations by scheduling a comprehensive inspection of your car's air conditioning system with our team of expert technicians at Premier Tire & Auto Service. Our skilled professionals will carefully examine every component of your AC system, checking for leaks, worn-out parts, or any other potential issues that could affect its performance. By addressing any problems early on, you can ensure that your AC is in top condition and ready to keep you cool throughout the season. 2. Recharge the Refrigerant: Over time, the refrigerant in your car's AC system can become depleted, leading to reduced cooling efficiency. During your inspection, our technicians will check the refrigerant levels and recharge it if necessary to restore optimal cooling performance. This simple yet essential step will help ensure that your AC blows cold air consistently, even on the hottest summer days. 3. Clean or Replace the Cabin Air Filter: The cabin air filter is responsible for trapping dust, pollen, and other contaminants, ensuring clean air inside your vehicle's cabin and maintaining proper airflow through the AC system. Over time, the filter can become clogged, restricting airflow and reducing cooling efficiency. During your visit to Premier Tire & Auto Service, our technicians will inspect the condition of the cabin air filter and clean or replace it as needed. This will not only improve the performance of your AC but also contribute to a healthier interior environment for you and your passengers. 4. Check the Condition of Belts and Hoses: The belts and hoses in your car's AC system are essential for the proper operation of various components, including the compressor and condenser. Over time, these components can wear out, crack, or develop leaks, leading to AC malfunctions. During your inspection at Premier Tire & Auto Service, our technicians will carefully inspect the condition of belts and hoses and replace any that show signs of wear or damage. This proactive approach can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and ensure the smooth operation of your AC system throughout the summer months. 5. Test the AC System: Before you hit the road for your summer adventures, it's essential to test your car's AC system to ensure everything is working correctly. Our technicians will perform thorough tests to evaluate the cooling performance, airflow, and overall functionality of the system. If any issues are detected during testing, we'll promptly address them to ensure your comfort and safety on the road. Don't let the summer heat spoil your driving experience. With the help of Premier Tire & Auto Service, you can ensure that your car's air conditioning system is ready to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the season. Schedule an appointment with us today, and let our experienced technicians take care of your AC needs. Enjoy cool rides ahead with Premier Tire & Auto Service!
    Show More
    Share by: