High temperatures, humidity and extended sunlight are all tough on your car throughout the summer. Aside from not being the most comfortable months for driving, the summer season can take a toll on your car’s tires, engine, and more. Beat the heat this summer by taking steps to prepare your car for the sweltering weather conditions.
1) Cooling System Check-Up
The first step in preparing your car for hot summer driving is conducting a thorough check of the vehicle’s cooling systems. Properly functioning cooling systems will help keep your engine from overheating as it is driven in extreme heat. As part of your regular routine maintenance, such as an oil change, have your mechanic check each of your car’s various cooling system components.
The first check should be of the engine’s radiator and antifreeze coolant levels, which both need to be changed and refilled as part of regular maintenance. Exact mileage and frequency requirements for coolant replacement changes slightly from one engine to another; your owners’ manual will indicate the recommended time-frames. Be sure the coolant fan is functioning and that none of the hoses that provide coolant to the engine are leaking. If you choose to conduct these tests on your own, remember to do so after the engine has been off for several minutes to prevent injurious burns.
2) Tires
Aside from your car’s engine, you also need to prepare your tires for the wear and tear of driving on scorching hot summer roads. Hot weather and road conditions can weaken tires, especially if you plan on taking a long summer road trip or hauling a heavy load for any length of time. As the warm summer season starts, inspect your tires for signs of unsafe wear and tear, proper inflation, and any other tread or wheel damage. Keep a small air pressure gauge in your car so you can check on your tire’s inflation levels regularly. Properly inflated tires that aren't unsafely worn out have a better chance of safely surviving a long summer of driving in extreme heat.
3) Breakdown Preparation
A roadside breakdown is never an enjoyable experience, but the intense heat of the summer can make it downright dangerous. Before you embark on any extended summer road trips, make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit in your car that is geared toward warm weather breakdowns. Important items to include are extra water, sunscreen and a few pieces of lightly colored and loosely fitting clothing. While you wait for assistance, you and your passengers should use a small amount of you available water to dampen a rag to be placed on the back of your necks as a way of preventing heat stroke.
A summer road trip is a popular activity on hot sunny days, but your car needs to be made ready for the adventure with the same level of care given to you and your fellow travelers. Ensure your cooling systems, tires, and emergency breakdown kit are all addressed before hitting the road in the heat of summer.
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