Summer is in full swing! Many things that the high heat and sun can do affect your car are not good. Not only does summer mean heat but also road trips. Having your car inspected during these high temps is crucial to help you avoid some common car problems due to heat. You also need to protect your interior as well. Using a sunshade in your windshield when not in use and tinted windows can and will help protect your interior from the sun and heat. Check out our list below of common summer car problems and have your vehicle inspected by your trusted auto repair shop before hitting the road. Stay cool out there and don’t forget to check out my latest podcast episode: Helping your Vehicle Survive these HOT Temperatures
- Air Conditioning: If your vehicle's interior cabin is hard to cool down or it isn't blowing air hard enough you probably need to have your A/C checked out. Driving long distances is rough enough without having to deal with being hot and staying hydrated.
- Fluids: Just as people need water your vehicle requires certain fluids to be happy and work efficiently. Ensure that you have enough coolant, engine oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.
- Battery: Having your battery inspected or checked out is also very important during heat waves and high temps. It can take a lot out of your battery and your vehicle's electrical system. Additionally, heat can accelerate corrosion. We suggest cleaning corrosive build up around your battery's terminals and tighten clamps as well to ensure a good connection.
- Leaks: Check out your vehicle in the morning by moving it and look for leaks or puddles. Usually, you can identify what is leaking by the color and/or smell. If you have a leak, definitely have your car inspected.
- Hoses & Belts: Heat can and will increase chances of failure in many things including belts and hoses. A busted belt or leaking hose can lead to one or more problems, including but not limited to; a loss of steering, overheated radiator, or engine failure that can result in a broken down car.
- Tires: Tires are made of rubber and rubber can have a reacting to high temperatures. Blacktop and asphalt roads absorb and retain heat, which also adds intensity to the high outside temperatures. Properly inflated tires are important to avoid a blowout. If underinflated, more of the tires surface area comes in contact with the road, in turn, increasing the chance of a blowout.
- Windshield Cracks: Minor cracks or dings in your windshield may grow and extend into larger problems in heat and direct sunlight. Have them fixed when they happen. The smaller the crack, the easier it is to fix and could possibly less expensive than a large or sizeable crack.
- Monitor Gauges: Keep an eye on not only your gas but also oil and engine gauges. Avoiding running out of gas or pulling over before your car overheats can save you a lot of time and trouble. Have back up fluids and water in case of a roadside emergency. It could save you valuable time, money, and sanity from not having to stand in the heat on the side of the road while waiting for help.
