(SPM Wire)  As the days get shorter, it’s time to make sure your car is ready for the season.

The experts at the Car Care Council recommend taking care of simple maintenance now to avoid costly future repairs.

Basic fall auto maintenance includes checking the oil, filters and fluids, belts and hoses, brakes, tires and air conditioning. An annual tune-up and wheel alignment are also recomended.

“Making your vehicle last longer makes good financial sense,” said Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “By simply budgeting the equivalent of just one car payment, you could cover an entire year’s worth of basic maintenance.”

More auto tips can be found online at www.carcare.org.