Fall brings a colorful change to Illinois’ landscape, but it also presents new risks for drivers. Being prepared for this season is essential to staying safe on the roads. You can follow key checkpoints to make sure you’re prepared for changing driving conditions.
Check and replace fluid
As fall approaches, Illinois can experience dramatic temperature changes. You may need to adjust your vehicle’s fluids to ensure optimal performance in colder temperatures. To protect your engine, use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water in the radiator. This mixture prevents the radiator from freezing and potentially bursting. If the radiator fluid freezes, it won’t be able to cool the engine as well. To keep your windshield clear on cold fall mornings, choose an antifreeze windshield washer fluid that contains antifreeze and alcohol.
As outside temperatures drop, engine oil thickens, forcing the engine and transmission to work harder. This can cause slow starts and difficult shifts. Your vehicle’s critical components, such as pistons and connecting rods, may not get the oil they need to operate properly in very cold weather. To combat this, consider using a thinner oil that performs well in cold weather.
Checking and maintaining tires
The crisp fall air means it’s time to check your tires. Tire pressure drops about 1 psi for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit drop in temperature, so it’s important to check your tires frequently. Always check them yourself, and don’t trust the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Illinois weather can change quickly, and properly inflated tires can help keep you safe.
Proper tire tread plays a key role in driving safety. Although Illinois tread law states that 2/32 of an inch is the minimum acceptable tread depth, 4/32 of an inch is considered optimal for overall safety. When tires wear beyond this point, it affects your vehicle’s ability to stop. If you’re driving in fall conditions, such as on a slippery, leaf-covered road, and must brake suddenly, improper tread could cause your vehicle to slide instead of stop. The possibility of sliding instead of stopping safely highlights the importance of regularly checking the condition of your tires.
Fall is a great time to prepare for winter by installing winter tires on your vehicle. If you live in a hilly area of Chicago or own a rear-wheel drive vehicle, the special tread on winter tires acts like snow boots, providing the necessary grip. You’ll feel safer with winter tires when you’re driving on harsh winter roads.
Taking care of your tires is more than just following the law. It’s about your own safety and the safety of others. Before fall turns to winter, check your tire pressure and tread, and switch to winter tires. These quick checks will make you and other Illinois drivers feel safer.
Testing batteries and electrical systems
Fall weather in the Prairie State indicates it’s time to check your car’s battery and electrical components. Temperatures can drop quickly, reducing battery efficiency. When the weather is cold, the battery has to work harder to start. Check its connections, as rusted or loose connections can impede the flow of current. A professional can assess the health of your battery and prevent roadside breakdowns. If your car is more than 3 years old, consider replacing the battery.
If you’re an electric car owner, you should know that in extremely cold weather (around 5 degrees Fahrenheit), the range of your electric car can be reduced by up to 50%. Storing your electric car in a garage helps preserve its power and protect it from the cold.
Check the brakes
Your car’s brakes are vital to safety and require special attention on Illinois roads in the fall. Wet conditions can rust and damage brake components. Salted streets can wear down these devices as fall turns to winter. On slippery roads, avoid slamming on the accelerator and instead apply pressure gently to maintain control.
Cold weather can exacerbate brake problems. In icy conditions, brake pressure can build up, causing the brakes to overheat. Brake fluid can also be affected if water gets into the system. At 32 degrees Fahrenheit, water can freeze. Regular maintenance can help avoid these cold weather problems. Schedule an inspection before winter arrives to catch problems early. Staying vigilant can ensure safe driving all season long.
Monitoring suspension system
The suspension system’s job is to maintain stability and requires proper wheel alignment. Misalignment can cause excessive stress on suspension components and can damage struts and shocks. Watch for signs of shock wear. If your car feels excessively bumpy when going over bumps, this could indicate a problem.
Update Your Emergency Kit
As fall arrives in the Prairie State, it’s time to update your road emergency kit. Equip your kit with a few essentials, like a bright light, a warm blanket, and a first aid kit. Other key emergency kit components include a jump starter, an ice scraper, non-perishable snacks, and a phone charger in case you get stuck. For extra peace of mind, keep a small shovel and sand handy to free a stuck wheel.
Review your insurance
Fall is a good time to review your auto insurance coverage. While Illinois requires basic coverage, it’s important to check if it’s adequate for potential accidents. You may want to consider raising your limits, as this may provide better protection for you and your assets in a worst-case scenario.
Protect Your Car and Your Wallet with American Auto Insurance
As fall approaches, you’ll need to regularly inspect your vehicle and review your insurance coverage to prepare for changing driving conditions. American Auto Insurance is committed to helping motorists navigate Illinois’ complex roads. With two decades of experience, we can tailor an insurance policy to your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for affordable coverage or need SR-22 documentation, we can help.
For peace of mind, call us today at 773-286-3500! With offices across the state and 24/7 support, we can ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected challenges of fall.
Man Repairing Vehicle Engine by Malte Luk is licensed from Pexels.
Car maintenance, falls, insurance, vehicle repairs
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