LEESBURG, Va., Oct. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Fall Care Month in October is the perfect time for car owners to have their vehicles inspected before the temperatures drop and severe weather hits, says the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).

ASE recommends that motorists have the following areas of their vehicles checked by a well-trained automotive service professional before winter arrives:

Battery – Cold weather is hard on batteries, so it's wise to check the battery and charging system for optimum performance.

Antifreeze – Antifreeze (coolant) should be flushed and refilled at least every two years in most vehicles.

Brakes – Have the brake system checked. Brakes are critical to vehicle safety and particularly important when driving on icy or snow-covered roads.

Tires – Check the tire tread depth and tire pressure, including the spare. If snow and ice are a problem in the area, consider special tires designed to grip slick roads.

Oil – Be diligent about changing the oil at recommended intervals and check the fuel, air and transmission filters at the same time.

Lights and Wipers – Make sure all exterior and interior lights are working to see and be seen. Check the fluid level in the windshield washer reservoir and replace wiper blades that are torn, cracked or don't properly clean the windshield.

"Performing preventative maintenance before winter hits is an investment that pays off and helps car owners avoid the unexpected cost and hassle of a breakdown during the cold winter months ahead," said Dave Johnson, president and CEO of ASE. "Because ASE Certified professionals from coast to coast play such a vital role in communities nationwide, October is also an ideal time to highlight their knowledge, skill and dedication to keeping their customers' vehicles safely and dependably on the road."

About the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)
Established by the automotive industry in 1972 as a non-profit organization, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) is a driving force in the transportation industry. As an independent third party, ASE upholds and promotes high standards of service and repair through the assessment, certification and credentialing of current and future industry professionals, and the prestigious ASE Blue Seal logo identifies professionals who possess the essential knowledge and skills to perform with excellence. Today, there are ASE Certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges throughout the country. For more information about ASE, visit www.ase.com.

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SOURCE National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE)