Fall can be a wonderful time of year. Whether you're a fan of football games or pumpkin spice everything, the season is packed with plenty of fun and excitement – but this doesn't often extend to your car. However, if you're ignoring your ride in favor of apple picking and tailgating, you could be setting yourself up for disaster, as taking care of vehicle maintenance is essential during the fall. 

"Getting your vehicle ready for winter while temperatures are still mild is a proactive approach to preventive maintenance that helps ensure safety, reliability and fewer unexpected repairs when severe winter weather strikes," said Rich White, the executive director of the Car Care Council.

The organization recommended giving your tires some attention before the temperature drops. Here are a few things you can do to prepare for the chillier weather: 

Keep an eye on tread
Autumn weather may seem perfect, but you still need to prepare for some extreme conditions. Heavy rains lead to slick roadways, while piles of falling leaves can also cover a surface and make it difficult for tires to get a good grip. To battle against this, you'll want tires with a thick, deep tread. This allows the tire to funnel water away from the vehicle. It also decreases the chance that a stray object or debris in the road will puncture the equipment, causing a blowout and potential loss of control.  

Slow down
You already know that speeding leads to some major problems. If the roads are slick, it could even put you in some dangerous situations. To stay safe – and protect your tires – you must remember to slow down. It's going to take you much longer to come to a complete stop. In fact, wet surfaces could quadruple the amount of time and space normally needed to brake. By reducing speed, you're not only being safer, but you're also reducing the stress on your tires and other gears. 

Invest in maintenance
Perhaps the most important thing you can do is ensure that all aspects of your car are functioning properly. Luckily, the team of experts at NJ State Auto's Total Car Care Center can help. This garage caters to the public and can address any issues you may have, getting your vehicle ready for fall and winter weather.