The change of seasons can have you seeing red if your vehicle isn’t ready for autumn storms. Keep your car up to the challenge this October.

Drivers face a myriad of driving considerations their vehicles roll into fall–early sunsets, slick roads, headlight brightness, school zones. All of those changes affect your vehicle as well.

Risk of accidents and road challenges increase in October, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Darker days and earlier nights compromise depth perception, color recognition and peripheral vision can be compromised in the dark. Glare from the sun low on the horizon and drivers using high beams also temporarily can blind drivers.

Tips for October vehicle maintenance and driving

The following maintenance recommendations help drivers keep their vehicles at optimum performance for October excursions. An autumn inspection can address minor problems before they become major repairs that leave your family stranded on the way to your next destination.

Contact your service advisor if you see any of the common vehicle service tips for fall, beginning with visibility issues:

Headlight performance

Headlights require some extra care in early autumn. They bear the brunt of pebbles and debris kicking up from the roadways. Among the common problems with headlights for autumn drivers.

• Lens alignment. Do your headlights point at the road? Potholes and rugged park roads can throw out headlight alignment, damage and damage bulbs. Conduct a headlight alignment check by pointing them at a wall or garage door.
• Other lens problems: Does your vehicle have yellowed or cloudy or damaged lenses? Ask your service advisor about headlight replacement or restoration.
• Dim bulbs: Does the roadway appear less bright this year? Halogen bulbs can lose as much as 20% of their brightness within two years of normal driving (600 or more hours). Heat degrades filaments over time. Replace bulbs for a brighter, safer view of dark autumn roads.
• Condensation inside the lens: Chicks and cracks can cause moisture to accumulate inside your vehicle's headlight housing and reduce headlight brightness. Have your lenses inspected for summer damage.

Windshield safety

Cracked windshields may prevent airbags from deploying properly. Hazy and smudgy glass impedes visibility. And wiper blades

• Windshield cracks expand quickly during cold weather. They impede visibility and reduce occupant safety.
• Replace wiper blades this month. Old blades damaged by summer sun and contaminants can leave your window a streaky mess. Don’t forget rear blades on your SUV.
• Haze accumulates on inside glass surfaces throughout summer, caused by off-gassing from upholstery. Remove it simply with a microfiber towel and glass cleaner intended for vehicles.
• Replenish wash fluid in your vehicle’s wiper blade tank before your next outing.

Vehicle charging system and electrical issues

Marginal batteries can go dead overnight in cool October weather. Cold weather slows chemical reactions that create electricity and also makes it more difficult for the battery to retain a charge.

Common signs of electrical issues to watch for this month include:

• Difficulty starting your vehicle, especially after a cold night
• Headlights dim while you are driving
• Windows struggle to open and close
• Check engine light illuminated on your console
• Review battery terminals for corrosion and loose wires

Heating and air conditioning problems

Your vehicle’s climate control system needs regular maintenance to perform adequately in cold weather. Here are some of the common issues.

• Check coolant levels. Inadequate radiator fluid ranks as one of the top causes of inefficient climate control systems. The problem is common for vehicles driven in hot weather, which accelerates evaporation.
• Ask about a coolant flush to replace spent coolant/antifreeze solution. Heat breaks down chemicals and reduces the effectiveness of fluid to cool the engine. Mileage and time intervals vary by vehicle and type of driving.
• Clean vents clogged with dust, bugs, pet fur and leaves parts. Properly maintained vents help assure air flow throughout the cabin.

Tire maintenance and replacement

1. Check tire pressure: As temperatures drop, tire pressure tends to decrease, which can affect fuel efficiency and handling. Consider switching to winter tires if you live in an area with cold weather and snow.
2. Look for sidewall damage such as bulges or deep cuts. Damaged tires are prone to unexpected blowouts.
3. Check tread depth. Tires have wear bars and, if your tires are at or below the minimum depth, replace with new tires before winter arrives.
4. Consider all-weather or winter tires if you live in snowy conditions or expect to visit those climes during the holidays.