Autumn is a beautiful season, with crisp air, changing leaves and cosy evenings—but when you’re behind the wheel, it can bring new challenges. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or new to navigating the roads in colder months, here are some key pointers from Segensworth Automobiles to help you stay safe and avoid unexpected breakdowns.
1. Keep Fluids Topped Up
One of the simplest yet most critical checks you can do is to ensure all your vehicle’s fluids are in good order.
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Coolant/antifreeze: Make sure your levels are correct and that the mix is appropriate for colder temperatures. If you’re unsure, bring your car in and we’ll check it for you.
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Windshield washer fluid: Autumn brings more rain, wind and falling leaves that smear your windscreen. Use a suitable formula that resists freezing.
Ensuring your fluids are properly maintained helps prevent damage and improves vehicle reliability when the weather turns.
2. Inspect the Battery
Car batteries tend to suffer when temperatures drop. On average, a typical battery lasts around four years. If yours is older or showing signs of weakness, consider replacing it before cold weather arrives.
Even if it seems fine now, have it thoroughly tested—poor performance in damp, chilly conditions is often a precursor to faults.
3. Prepare for Driving After Dark
With shorter daylight hours in autumn, many of your journeys will occur in the dark. Driving at night brings extra risks—particularly on unlit roads.
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Practice regular night driving on quieter routes to build confidence.
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Ensure your headlights and other relevant lights are aligned and functioning (see next point).
4. Check Every Light
As days grow darker sooner, vehicle lighting becomes more crucial than ever.
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Don’t limit your checks to just headlights and brake lights. Make sure your indicators, fog lights, hazard lights and even number-plate lamps are all working.
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Replace bulbs promptly if they fail, and consider carrying spares for emergencies.
5. Look After Your Tyres
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, and autumn conditions demand extra vigilance.
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With colder, wetter roads and the presence of leaves, grip is reduced. Keep an eye on tread depth and tyre pressure.
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If the road is covered in leaves—especially when wet—leave extra space between you and the vehicle ahead.
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Leaves can conceal potholes or uneven surfaces, so travel cautiously, especially in rural or tree-lined areas.
6. Be Prepared for All Weather
Autumn weather is very changeable—and sometimes extreme.
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Rain, fog or sleet can make roads slippery. Exercise smooth braking, steering and maintain longer stopping distances.
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Fog can drastically reduce visibility—only use fog lights where legal and safe, and slow your speed.
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Always check the forecast before setting out, dress for the weather, and carry spare clothing in case conditions change.
7. Watch for Fallen Leaves and Hidden Hazards
Beautiful autumn foliage can also be dangerous:
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Leaves on the road surface reduce grip and can mask potholes, road markings or uneven surfaces.
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When driving through leaf-strewn areas, reduce speed and increase your following distance.
8. Be Ready for Glare
Lowering sun angles in autumn can pose real risks of glare.
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Keep a clean windscreen and use your sun visors to reduce the impact of bright, low sunlight.
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A good pair of polarised sunglasses helps reduce glare and improve visibility.
9. Take Care Around School Zones and Children
With school back in session, there will be more children walking, cycling or scooting—often in low light, sometimes without high-visibility clothing.
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Be extra vigilant near schools, especially during drop-off and pick-up times.
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Adhere to local speed limits and watch for sudden movements from pedestrians or cyclists.
10. Watch for Wildlife
Autumn is prime time for wildlife movement. Animals such as deer, foxes, badgers and rabbits often become more active at dawn and dusk—especially in rural areas.
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Stay alert for road signs warning of wildlife and reduce speed in areas you know are prone to animal crossings.
11. Avoid Distractions & Be Aware of Seasonal Events
Festivals, fireworks and Halloween festivities can pose extra distractions for drivers.
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Stay alert for pedestrians, especially in the evening, and be prepared for sudden activity on pavements or roads.
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Keep your focus on the road, and reduce speed in crowded or festive areas.
What We Can Do for You at Segensworth Automobiles
At Segensworth Automobiles, we’re committed to helping you stay safe this autumn. We offer:
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Full vehicle autumn health checks, including battery, lighting, fluid levels and tyres.
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Leaf-clearing inspections, ensuring no drainage, wheel arch or vent blockages.
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Headlamp alignment and bulb replacement.
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Advice and guidance tailored to your vehicle and typical driving routes.
If you’d like us to carry out a full autumn check before seasonal conditions become more challenging—or if you notice anything unusual—just get in touch or pop by our garage in Segensworth. Safe driving!