You know how your kids whine when summer gets really hot? You know how you whine? Imagine how your car, truck, or SUV feels. Automobiles can feel the summer heat just as their drivers and passengers can, which is why it’s important you take a few steps to help your vehicle through the summer before the season gets here. Help your vehicle through the summer by doing the following.
Protect the Battery
Summer can be as hard on your vehicle’s battery as winter is. Heat breaks down your battery internally, and road vibration can increase that breakdown. Check your battery regularly throughout the hot summer months to ensure it remains secured in place and doesn’t show signs of internal issues. If the battery is bulging or corroded, you’ve got a problem.
Check the Engine Coolant
Your engine’s coolant does more than keep the motor cool; it also helps keep the transmission cool. Make sure you aren’t overdue for a radiator coolant change. If you are, have the service done sooner rather than later. If you aren’t, keep an eye on your engine coolant all summer long. If it gets too low, have the system checked for leaks.
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
Hot summer roads can do serious damage to your automobile’s tires. Underinflated tires are particularly susceptible to heat damage, as are bald tires. Check your tire tread regularly to ensure it isn’t wearing down unevenly or it isn’t worn down too far. Check your air pressure weekly, too, to ensure it’s at the correct psi. If it isn’t, add air to the tires.
Keep Your Automobile Hydrated
We talked about engine coolant above but there all of the fluids in your car, truck, or SUV need attention before and during summer. Get oil changes every 3,000 miles and make sure all other vehicle fluids are clean and filled to capacity. Fluids keep the engine cool just like coolant does by drawing heat away from parts and absorbing it.
Keep Your Sanity
Finally, have your car, truck, or SUV’s air conditioner serviced to make sure it doesn’t go on the fritz in the middle of the summer heat. Can you imagine your children’s complaints if this happens? They will lose it and so will you. Driving in a hot car causes anger and fatigue. Prevent this by getting the air conditioner serviced so it can run efficiently all summer long.
Stringer Auto Repair, LLC can help you protect your vehicle during the hot summer months in Johnstown, OH, and all year long. Make us your one-stop-shop for your automotive service needs.
