As the temperature drops and the autumn air gets crisp, you'll want to spend plenty of time perusing pumpkin patches or tailgating the next football game. However, you shouldn't let your favorite fall activities get in the way of your car's maintenance. 

The importance of tire tread
Tire tread is an essential part of car safety. The deep grooves on the surface of a tire grip the ground and help control the vehicle, wicking away water and other debris when necessary. Tread is especially important during the cold, wet months, as it allows drivers to maneuver over slick areas and complete their drive safely. 

According to The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, this year's winter is predicted to be colder than normal for most of the country. While it's hard to imagine anything being worse than last year's polar vortex, the frigid temperatures and inclement weather on the horizon will likely challenge it. Additionally, people in the eastern part of the U.S. can expect heavy snow and rainfall throughout the season. 

But drivers don't have to be stuck inside when winter arrives – instead, they can work to ensure that their cars are safe enough to handle the roads. 

Invest in tuneups
With slippery snow and rain arriving shortly, drivers should turn their attention to vehicle maintenance now. Simply getting an auto tuneup is a good place to start, as this quick check-up can ensure that all aspects of a car are running smoothly. Professionals will know how to check your tire tread, along with a few other areas, to see what needs to be done before the next cold wave arrives. 

"It's never too late to prepare your vehicle for winter," said Steve Rohweder, Goodyear director of consumer tire technology, in a statement. "Along with antifreeze and battery check-ups, inspection of your tire tread is especially important as we prepare for potential slippery road conditions."

Where to go
At New Jersey State Auto Auction, you can do more than find used cars. The facility also has the Total Car Care Center, a garage that caters to the public and is capable of addressing any issues you may have. Schedule an appointment today to have your tires checked out before you hit the worst of fall weather. You can even use this opportunity to learn more about the use of snow tires or chains, which could increase car safety during the winter.