Getting Your Car Ready for the Summer Heat
Getting Your Car Ready for the Summer Heat
If you’re planning a summer trip, you should know that your car needs special care during this time. Like cold weather, extreme heat can wreak havoc on your vehicle, causing everything from flat tires to overheating. But there’s some good news, with these simple steps, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly in the heat!
Check Your Tires
Your tires are important to your car’s safety and performance. If they’re not in good condition, you could encounter serious problems with your vehicle. The first thing to check is the tire pressure. A properly inflated tire will have better traction, save you money on gas, and last longer. A tire pressure gauge is easy to use and can be found at any auto parts store. Push the white stick inside the covering, and read the number to make sure you’re checking the proper PSI for your car. In addition, it’s a good idea to check the tread depth of your tires. A treadwear indicator bar is molded into every modern tire. When this bar reaches the edge of the tire, you’ve probably already lost about 2/32″ of tread depth.
Check Your Battery
The summer heat can be brutal on your car’s battery. The intense temperatures under your hood can accelerate corrosion inside the battery, which ultimately leads to battery failure. The good news is that it’s possible to extend the life of your battery by keeping it in optimal condition. You can do this by properly charging it, keeping it clean and checking for any signs of damage that could indicate it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. One easy way to check your battery is to use a multimeter. This will give you a clear picture of your battery’s current charge level and how long it will last.
Check Your Windshield
While you are getting your car ready for the summer heat, make sure that your windshield is in good condition. Checking your windshield regularly for tiny cracks and chips is important, as they can spread quickly and cause massive damage if left unchecked. When the temperature rises, glass tends to expand and contracts, which can make even minor dings and chips grow into serious problems. This can be especially true in the summer, when the glass is exposed to intense heat for extended periods of time. If your windshield is damaged, you need to get it fixed or replaced as soon as possible. In addition, it’s also important to keep it clean and free from any bugs or debris that may be causing damage.
Check Your Coolant
Coolant is an essential liquid in your vehicle’s cooling system. It keeps the engine cool all year round and also helps to protect the vehicle from freezing in sub-zero temperatures. Like all fluids, coolant depletes over time so it is important to check the level on a regular basis. If the coolant is brownish or colorless, flush your cooling system and replace it with a new coolant. Pre-mixed coolant is convenient because it already has the correct solution ratio and doesn’t require distilled water. Concentrate is another option and can save you some money. Whether you choose to use pre-mixed or concentrate, it is important that you have the right coolant for your car. Different types of coolant don’t mix well, so it is important to check the label before you buy. If you find a coolant that isn’t suitable for your car, take it to a mechanic so they can fix the problem and get your coolant back to normal.
Categorised in: AC Not Working, Auto Electrical Services, Auto Repair, Auto Shop, Cooling Systems, Mechanic, Oil Change, Tire Replacement, Tire Shop, Vehicle Maintenance
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