09/18/2026
Fall is in the air, and with that comes wet leafy roads. Here are some tips for making your travel safer:
Fall Weather Car Tips for Oshkosh, WI
In fall, focus on leaf removal, tire checks, fluid inspections, and preparing your car for slick roads and early darkness to stay safe and avoid breakdowns.
1. Remove Leaves and Protect Your Car
Falling leaves can clog vents, clog radiators, and damage paint from sap and leaf wax. Remove leaves by hand or with a safe blower before driving, and check under the hood in the gully area between the windshield and hood to prevent moldy water from dripping into electronics
Avoid parking under trees when possible.
2. Drive Defensively on Wet Leaves
Wet leaves can be as slick as ice. Slow down, increase following distance, and give extra room to pedestrians and cyclists. If you skid, steer in the direction you want to go and ease off the gas—don’t slam on the brakes
3. Check Tires and Tread
Inspect tire pressure (use the gauge from your door jamb or manual) and tread depth. Replace tires if tread is below 2/32" or if you plan long fall trips
Good tread channels water and improves grip on wet leaves.
4. Inspect Fluids and Systems
Check engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid when the engine is cool
Also inspect belts, hoses, and the heater/defroster before cold weather hits
5. Maintain Battery and Locks
Test your battery’s voltage (about 12.6V is good) and clean corrosion from terminals
Lubricate door locks and hinges to prevent sticking
6. Prepare for Early Darkness
With shorter days, ensure headlights, fog lights, taillights, and turn signals work
Consider all-weather floor mats to protect against rain, leaves, and slush
7. Emergency Kit
Keep a kit with gloves, ice scraper, blanket, flashlight, jumper cables, and first aid supplies
