As the leaves start to fall and the days get shorter, autumn brings new challenges for drivers. Wet weather, poor visibility and falling leaves may all affect your car. Now is the time to make sure your vehicle is ready for the season ahead.
Whether you use your car every day or only now and then, these tips could help keep you safe and reduce the risk of extra costs.
Why car care in autumn matters
Taking care of your car in autumn is about more than just safety — it may also save you money and worry. Cold, wet and windy weather can put extra strain on your vehicle. By carrying out a few simple checks, you could avoid repair bills, prevent delays and reduce the risk of fines, helping your journeys stay smoother and less stressful.
1. Watch out for leaf damage
Leaves may look harmless, but if left on your car, they can cause damage. Wet leaves contain sap that can stain paintwork or windows and may even lead to rust. If they build up, you could end up with costly repairs.
- Remove leaves from paintwork and windows: Brush or wipe them off gently before they stick.
- Clear your windscreen: Leaves blocking your view could result in a fine of up to £1,000.
- Check under the bonnet: Leaves near the radiator or vents may cause overheating or, when dry, could even create a fire risk.
If leaves get stuck behind the grille or in the air filter, ask a professional to remove them. Leaving them there could harm your engine and waste fuel.
2. Check your air filter regularly
Dirt and fallen leaves can block the air filter and stop enough air from reaching the engine. When the filter is clogged, your car may use more fuel, feel less powerful and even suffer damage to other parts. A replacement often costs around £100, but a quick check and clean could help you avoid bigger repair bills later.
3. Prevent condensation and foggy windows
Cold weather can make your windows steam up inside. Driving with misty glass is unsafe and against the law. You could face a fine of up to £5,000 under Regulation 30 of the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986. Always clear your windscreen properly before you start your journey.
Here are some quick ways to clear condensation:
- Turn your heater or fan so it blows on the windscreen
- Open your windows slightly to bring in fresh air
- Keep a small dehumidifier pad or moisture bag in the car
4. Make sure your lights are working
With darker evenings and misty mornings, working lights are essential. A broken bulb could make it harder to see and be seen, and might result in a fine.
- Test all lights weekly, including fog and brake lights
- Clean dirt, frost or mist from lenses
- Replace any faulty bulbs straight away
5. Top up screen wash and check wipers
Autumn rain and road spray can quickly blur your view. Good wipers and screen wash help keep your windscreen clear.
- Use screen wash that works in low temperatures
- Replace worn or noisy wiper blades
- Never use wipers on a dry or icy screen, as this could damage them
6. Keep your car well-maintained
Regular checks can help stop your car from breaking down. If you’re unsure what to do, our car maintenance guide gives easy advice to keep your car in good condition throughout the year.
7. Plan for emergencies
No one wants to be stuck on a rainy night waiting for help. Carrying a few basics in your boot could make a big difference if you break down.
- A torch and spare batteries
- Warm blanket or jacket
- Snacks and bottled water
- Portable phone charger
- First aid kit
What if you’re considering a new car this autumn?
If your car keeps letting you down, you might be thinking about getting a replacement. For some drivers, this could mean exploring car finance bad credit options. At Go Car Credit, we know not everyone has a perfect credit history, and we aim to support people in finding finance that could work for their needs.
To see what repayments might look like, try our car finance calculator. It may give you a clearer idea of what monthly payments could be based on your circumstances.
Need help or guidance?
We believe clear and simple advice can make a real difference. Whether you just need quick tips or want to learn more about car finance, we’re here to help. Visit our guides section for easy information on budgeting, car care and finance options.
Final thoughts
Autumn means cooler days, darker nights and lots of fallen leaves. A few small steps may help you stay safe and avoid problems. Clearing away leaves, checking your lights, keeping windows clear and carrying an emergency kit could all make your journeys easier and less stressful.
If you’re thinking about changing your car this autumn, you don’t have to decide alone. Independent advice is available to guide you. Car finance with bad credit might be possible, and support is out there to help you find an option that suits your situation.
