Overlooked Car Issues That Start Showing Up Every September

Boston in the fall is one of a kind—from weekend foliage drives through the Blue Hills to pumpkin patches in the suburbs and bustling college campuses, there’s no shortage of movement and activity. But as the weather cools and the roads get busier, the demands on your vehicle increase, too.

Fallen leaves can hide road hazards, early morning temps can stress out your battery, and the start of road salting isn’t far behind. Whether you're navigating the Back Bay, Route 128, or the Mass Pike, a little fall maintenance now can prevent bigger headaches later. At Morrison’s Auto-Rite, we want to help you and your vehicle stay ahead of the season. Whether you’re commuting daily, sending a college student off with a car, or supporting a teen’s first solo drives, September is the perfect time for a check-up.

Why September Is Key for Vehicle Maintenance

As cooler weather sets in, vehicle systems that worked fine in the summer can start showing signs of wear. According to national service trends:

• Fall is one of the busiest times for oil changes, battery replacements, and filter services.
• Batteries between 3–5 years old are more likely to fail as temperatures begin to drop.
• In areas like Boston, wet leaves and rainy fall days contribute to a spike in accidents due to reduced traction and visibility.

The takeaway? Preventive maintenance isn’t just smart—it’s essential for staying safe and saving money.

Fall Vehicle Checklist: What to Inspect Now

Avoid emergency repairs and unexpected issues by focusing on these key systems before the leaves really start to fall:

Battery & Charging System

• Have your battery tested—especially if it’s older than 3 years.
• Check for corrosion on the terminals.
• Ensure your alternator and charging system are operating properly.

Tires, Alignment & Pressure

• Fall leaves + early frost = slippery conditions.
• Make sure your tread depth is safe and your tires are properly inflated.
• Summer road trips and potholes often knock your alignment out of spec—now’s the time to check.

Brakes & Fluid Levels

• Worn pads and rotors will lengthen stopping distances, especially in wet weather.
• Check and top off brake fluid, coolant, power steering, and transmission fluids.

Wipers, Lights & Visibility

• Replace streaky or cracked wiper blades.
• Confirm headlights, brake lights, and fog lights are fully functional.
• Add rain-resistant washer fluid to improve visibility during those classic Boston fall showers.

Heater, Defroster & Cabin Comfort

• Test your heater before it gets cold—waiting until November is too late.
• Replace your cabin air filter to keep air clean and vents free of debris like fallen leaves and allergens.

How Morrison’s Auto-Rite Helps You Stay Ready for the Road

If you’ve been searching for import auto mechanics you me or a reliable auto car repair mechanic shop in the Boston area, you’ve come to the right place. We offer full-service maintenance and repairs for both domestic and import vehicles—all handled by technicians who understand the unique demands of New England driving.

What We Offer:

• Complete auto service, from tires to transmissions
• Full vehicle inspections to catch small issues before they turn costly
• Honest, local expertise trusted by Boston and Jamaica Plain drivers for years

Whether you're heading to campus, commuting into the city, or getting out of town for some leaf-peeping, make sure your vehicle is ready. Book your fall check-up today at Morrison’s Auto-Rite. Happy Fall!