Summer Car Maintenance: Tips to Keep Your Ride in Tip-Top Shape
While you’re soaking in the lazy days of summer, your car isn’t getting a break. In fact, the warmer temps mean your vehicle is actually working harder than ever.
There are some specific ways to care for your car during the summer months. Here’s what you need to know.
Coolant system
Staying cool is your main goal when the weather is hot and sticky. It’s just as important for your car to stay cool, too – inside and out.
Keep your eyes open for signs of leaks at the points where hoses connect to the engine and any other joints. It’s also a good idea to give the hoses a squeeze every once in awhile (when they’re cool) to make sure they’re firm and not soft or squishy.
Engine belts
The serpentine belt is one of the most important belts on your vehicle. If it becomes cracked, gets loose, or begins to squeal, it’s time to see your trusted mechanic. It’s a good idea to have it checked out once during the summer (as part of your routine maintenance), just to avoid any surprises.
Windshield wipers
It’s no fun getting caught in a pop-up summer thunderstorm with wipers that aren’t working like they should. It’s recommended that they are replaced at least twice a year, so when your car’s in for an oil change, ask your mechanic to give them the once-over.
Essential fluids
Just like your body needs to stay hydrated, your vehicle needs the right levels of fluids, too. Here’s what you should check or what your mechanic will be looking at.
- Oil
- Brake fluid
- Windshield-washer fluid
Tires
Changing temperatures have an effect on your tire pressure, so you really should be checking it all year-round. Check for stones, nails, or anything else in the tires that shouldn’t be there, as well as cracks, uneven wear, and tread-depth.
Dashboard sunshade
It may seem like a silly item to be on a car-maintenance list, but it’s actually an important component of taking good care of your vehicle in the summer. The shade will keep ultraviolet rays from breaking down the materials that the inside of your car is made of. You can think of it as sunscreen for your vehicle.
It’ll also keep the inside of your car much cooler (no more scorching seat belt buckles). Rear and side window shades are beneficial, too.
Summer car care
Summertime isn’t the time to take a break from vehicle maintenance. Keep your regular schedule and keep your eyes open for the items on this list.
Give us a call at Conrad’s and let us help you with all of your summer vehicle maintenance needs.
