How Falling Leaves Can Damage Your Car—And What to Do About It

It’s that time of year in Winchester, MO—cooler mornings, pumpkin spice everywhere, and a sea of colorful leaves blanketing the roads. While the fall foliage in Ballwin and Ellisville might make for some picture-perfect drives, what those beautiful leaves can do to your car is far less charming. At Complete Auto Repair, we’ve seen firsthand how autumn debris can create some surprisingly costly problems. If you've been searching for car repair shops or auto service, here’s what you need to know to protect your vehicle from the leafy side of fall.

1. Wet Leaves = Slick Roads and Poor Traction

When leaves get wet, they create a slippery surface that can reduce your tire grip—especially during braking or sharp turns. In neighborhoods like Ballwin or Ellisville where leaves pile up along curbs and corners, this can be a real safety issue.

What to Do:
Have your tires and brakes inspected this fall to make sure they’re up to the challenge. Our techs can check your tread depth, tire pressure, and brake condition—all critical for staying in control when the roads get leaf-covered.

2. Leaves Can Clog Drainage Areas and Cause Water Damage

Leaves don’t just hang out on your windshield—they fall into the cowl area (that space between your hood and windshield), and if not cleaned out, they can clog your vehicle’s drainage system. That leads to standing water, which can cause mold, rust, and electrical damage inside your cabin.

What to Do:
Clear leaves regularly from under the hood and near windshield wipers. During a visit to Complete Auto Repair, we’ll check for any signs of clogged drains or moisture intrusion—just another reason we’re one of the best auto repair shops in West County.

3. Leaves Can Damage Your Undercarriage and Exhaust System

Leaves may seem harmless, but once they dry out and accumulate under your vehicle, they can stick to hot components like the exhaust system—posing both a fire risk and potential corrosion concerns over time.

What to Do:
If your car’s been parked near piles of leaves or you’ve driven through leaf-clogged streets, a quick undercarriage inspection is a smart move. At our auto repair shop in Winchester, we can inspect for leaf buildup, corrosion, or damage to shields and underbody components.

Don’t Let Fall Foliage Lead to Fall Repairs

Autumn maintenance is about more than just oil changes—it’s about making sure your car can handle the unique challenges the season brings. From leaf-related problems to cooling system checks before winter, our team is here to help. Looking for trusted auto mechanic shops, auto service, or your go-to auto repair shops in Winchester, Ballwin, or Ellisville? Complete Auto Repair is your local, family-owned shop offering honest, expert care backed by a 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty.

Drive Smarter This Fall—Schedule Your Service Today

Don’t wait until falling leaves cause rising repair bills. Call or book online with Complete Auto Repair and get the kind of service that keeps your car—and your wallet—safe all season long.