With darker, colder days ahead, fall brings change for better or for worse. When a new job, class, or sport starts, we have to count on our cars more. But how can you make your vehicle more reliable for your new reality?

Light the Way

As days get shorter and commutes start to get darker, make sure you can clearly see the road ahead. Stock headlights may not cut it. Swapping them out for brighter, longer-lasting bulbs is an easy solution for leveling up your driving experience and giving your car a subtle upgrade. With so many plug-and-play LED options, it has never been easier to make sure you can see and are seen on the road.

Tip: Always choose headlight bulbs that are compatible with your vehicle’s year, make, and model. To confirm which halogen, HID, or LED bulbs fit your vehicle, add your vehicle to the lordco.com garage or speak to a representative at any Lordco Auto Parts location. In vehicles equipped with a CAN bus system, LED headlights installed as replacements for Halogen bulbs may flicker after installation. In most cases, installing a Philips CAN bus adapter resolves the issue.

Wipe the Rain Away

When the weather gets terrible, having a good set of wipers can keep you from playing “guess where the road is”.  We always recommend switching wipers twice a year, and the fall is a good time to get the job done. If you swap blades and you find that you are still having a hard time seeing through the glass, try a rain repellent or switch to a seasonal washer fluid, especially important as the weather turns colder.

Tip: Match your wipers to your ride using your vehicle’s year, make, model. You’ll get a perfect fit first try.

Get on the Road

Always-ready Milwaukee M18 HOTSHOT Jump Starter

New routines and habits are tough, especially when you have an early morning. Don’t let a flat tire or a dead battery delay your day. Nobody wants to get stuck on the road, but you can be ready by keeping a patch kit in your glovebox and a jump starter in your trunk.

Tip: Don't forget: Most cars come with a spare tire. Check your vehicle before hitting the road to know what you may need in an emergency.

Keep Hands on the Wheel and Eyes on the Road

Trying to navigate, listen to music music, and send messages while driving? That’s a lot of distractions and definitley not safe. Did you know you are over 3 times more likely to have an accident on the road if you are distracted by your phone? 

Sometimes finding your way can be tricky, but with over 3,000 tickets handed out across BC in one month, choosing to go hands-free can save you over $300 and your license.

So what can you do if your car’s more analogue than digital? Try a phone mount like those from SeaSucker Flex X Phone Mount or Weathertech CupFone. Find a model that best fits your vehicle. Then the only thing you’ll have to worry about is if you're on the best route to avoid traffic.

Tip: Mount your phone at eye level so directions are easy to follow without looking down.

Freshen up for Fall

Fall brings change, new people, opportunities, and routines into your life. Always put your best foot forward by making a good first impression. But it doesn't end with you, include your car too. With a huge range of detailing options, Lordco Auto Parts has you covered inside and out—from detailing kits and interior wipes, to, the cherry on top, air fresheners.

When life gets messy—whether it’s a muddy hike, a spilled coffee, or a wet dog—keep your car’s interior protected with durable,, custom-fit floor liners and seat covers. A clean, well-kept ride helps you stay ready for whatever the season brings, from giving a friend a lift on a rainy day to picking up someone special.

Always Be Prepared

If there’s one thing you can count on, it’s Murphy’s Law: whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. Be like a scout and always be prepared on the road!

From simple hand tools to full-on emergency kits (even fire extinguishers in extreme cases), it is better to be over-prepared than caught off guard. Make sure you consider your car’s condition and the weather—those clues can help you pack what matters. 

Tip: Before buying wrenches for your vehicle, determine if you'll need SAE or metrick. Check for SAE or metric markings on your vehicle's fasteners or ask a Lordco Auto Parts representative to help you test wrenches to confirm what you need.   

Fall driving brings its challenges—darker days, slick roads, and busier schedules—but a little preparation goes a long way. Being ready for whatever the season throws at you will give you more time to enjoy the little things that brighten up your days.

For more cold-weather driving tips, read how to Conquer Canadian Winter.