Avoid the Scares: October Car Care Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore

It’s October—leaves are falling, pumpkin spice is in the air, and spooky season is officially here. But while most of Winchester is gearing up for Halloween, we’re focused on something just as seasonal (and possibly even scarier): Fall Car Care Month. That’s right—October is the time to give your car a little TLC before colder weather rolls in. We’re here to help you avoid ghostly grinding brakes, batty batteries, and haunted heaters. If you've been putting off maintenance, now’s the perfect time to stop by your local auto service center and get ahead of the horror.



Beware the Brake Screech

That high-pitched squeal isn’t a Halloween sound effect—it’s probably your brakes crying for help. Worn brake pads and neglected rotors can reduce stopping power, especially on slick fall roads. With increased traffic near schools and during fall festivals, responsive brakes are a must.

What to do: Schedule a brake inspection at your nearest auto repair shop. Our techs will inspect your brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels to ensure everything’s in tip-top shape.

Don’t Let a Dead Battery Leave You Stranded

Cold weather is coming, and it’s the #1 battery killer. If your battery is more than three years old, or your car’s been slow to start, it could ghost you at the worst possible moment—like a frosty school morning or before your Halloween night out.

What to do: Stop by and let our team test your battery’s health. As your nearest auto mechanic, we’ll help you avoid the stress of a surprise jump-start or tow.

Heater Haunting You with Cold Air?

There’s nothing like starting your morning with a freezing car and a heater that won’t warm up. Your HVAC system may need some attention before the first real cold snap hits.

What to do: Let us inspect your heater core, thermostat, and defroster. We’ll make sure you’re not stuck with chilly drives and fogged-up windows this fall.

Tires with No Tread Are Terrifying

Falling leaves, rain, and early frost make traction a priority. Worn or underinflated tires can increase your risk of sliding or hydroplaning.

What to do: Our team will check your tire pressure and tread depth, rotate your tires if needed, and recommend replacements if you're due.

Bonus Tip: Check Under the Hood—Critters Love It There

Cooler weather invites rodents to hide in engine bays. They can chew through wires and make a mess, especially if your vehicle has been sitting.

What to do: If your car hasn’t been driven much lately, a quick under-hood inspection can help you avoid creepy surprises.

Complete Auto Care—No Tricks, Just Trusted Service

Whether prepping your car for fall or avoiding frightful repairs down the road, Complete Auto Repair is here to help. We proudly serve Winchester, Ballwin, Ellisville, Chesterfield, and surrounding areas with honest, reliable service you can trust. From oil changes to brake checks, we’re the auto service center near you that makes car care easy—not scary. And with our 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty, you’ll have peace of mind long after October ends.

Schedule Your Fall Car Care Today

Don’t let minor car problems turn into major Halloween horrors. Visit Complete Auto Repair this October and get your vehicle ready for the season. Because the only thing spooky this month should be your costume—not your car.