Features

Fall Car Tips

By Marc Carson / Speedsport Tuning

It’s Fall! Which means three things: falling temperatures, falling leaves, and falling into your Porsche for some serious driving. After all, this is the best time of the year for corner-carving on our spectacular New England back roads. But, before you hit the road, make sure your car is ready for trouble-free motoring. This year, many of us have put considerably fewer miles on our cars. So, while your mileage may have barely ticked up, you may still need to change your oil. Every 12 months is a good rule of thumb, even if your mileage since the last change is minimal.

Photo by Roger Garbow

You’ll also want to make sure your alignment is spot on to get the most out of your drive and to keep your tires from uneven wear. Speaking of tires, obviously check the pressures, but also the treadwear and the date code. Old tires, even those with plenty of tread left, can be dangerous. The compounds break down with age and lose flexibility and grip. Additionally, if you drive your Porsche year-round (yes, some of us actually do that) you should consider a good set of UHP-rated winter tires. You’ll be blown away by the performance capabilities in the latest winter tires. With the proper shoes, we can turn your Porsche into a snowmobile.

Photo by David Livshin

With temperatures dropping, you’ll want to make sure your coolant is both full and fresh, and your heating system is working as it should. If you have a Cabriolet, Boxster or Targa, you know there is nothing better than dropping the top on a crisp morning and blasting the heat. Speaking of air, it also might be time to change your cabin air-filter.

Photo by Roger Garbow

What about wipers? You should replace your blades every six months. No one likes a streaky windshield.

And don’t forget the blanket and snacks. Finding a quiet spot to park and enjoy the solitude is almost as good as rowing through the gears. Or flicking the paddles.

Happy motoring!

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