Summer can be a tough time for your car, especially if you live in a hot area. Higher temperatures put extra strain on many parts of your vehicle. To stay safe and avoid breakdowns, it is wise to check a few key things before the hot season arrives. By doing these checks, you can drive with more peace of mind and keep cool on the road.
Cooling System
Your car’s cooling system is very important during hot days. The radiator, hoses, and coolant should all be in good shape. Make sure the coolant level is correct, because low fluid can lead to overheating. If the coolant is old or dirty, it might be time to flush it and replace it. Also, look for any cracks in the hoses. If they are worn out, it is best to change them before they fail in the middle of a hot afternoon.
Air Conditioning
When summer hits, you will want your car’s air conditioning to work well. Test it by running it for a few minutes and checking if it cools the cabin fast enough. If it is blowing warm air, you may need more refrigerant or a check-up for leaks. Sometimes, simply cleaning or changing the cabin air filter can help the system run better. A working air conditioner not only keeps you comfortable but also helps prevent drowsy driving.
Tires
Hot roads can make worn tires even more risky. Check if your tire tread is deep enough to give good grip. If the tread is low, think about buying new tires. Also, keep an eye on tire pressure. Air expands when heated, so your pressure might go up on hot days. Use a reliable gauge to check the pressure and adjust it to the level suggested in your car’s manual. Having the correct pressure keeps you safe and improves fuel use.
Fluids and Battery
In summer, it is also important to check your car’s fluids like engine oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Heat can thin out these fluids and lower their ability to protect your car’s parts. Make sure everything is clean and at the right level. You should also take a look at your battery. High temperatures can shorten a battery’s life, so if you see signs of corrosion or slow starts, it might be time for a new one.
Tire Air Pressure
Hot weather causes the air inside your tires to expand. If your tire pressure is already on the higher side, the heat can push it beyond safe limits. On the other hand, if you start with under-inflated tires, they can overheat when in contact with hot roads, making blowouts more likely. This is why checking tire pressure is so important in the summer. It’s best to do it in the early morning or when the tires are cool. You can use a basic tire gauge to measure the pressure and compare it to the level recommended by your car’s manual.
Air Filter Care
Your car’s engine needs a proper flow of clean air to work well. The air filter is the part that removes dust and other particles from the air before it enters the engine. In summer, there may be more dust in the air, and a dirty filter can get clogged sooner than usual. If the filter is clogged, the engine has to work harder to draw air in. This can hurt fuel economy, lower power, and cause the engine to run hotter.
Oil Grade
Oil grade refers to how thick or thin the oil is, and how well it flows under different temperatures. In hot weather, some oils become too thin, offering less protection to your engine’s moving parts. This can lead to faster wear and may cause overheating. Your car’s manual will usually list a recommended oil grade for summer, which is often slightly thicker.
Car Sun Shades
Coolant
