Summer heat is hard on car engines and tires. At the beginning of the season, it is a good idea to take a few simple steps to make sure the car is ready—and this is also a good opportunity for the regular check-ups that make sure everything is running smoothly.
Car Care Basics
Since car owners are taking the opportunity to get their ride ready for summer, it is a good reminder to check on the basics, like oil and other fluids. Make sure the care is on a level surface before checking the washer fluid, radiator and overflow tank, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and the battery water unless it is a maintenance-free type.
When checking the oil, the engine should be warm but turned off. All other fluids can be checked at any time, but the transmission fluid is checked while the car is running. If the oil needs to be added to or changed, check the car’s owner’s manual for the recommended type.
This is also a good time to have the brakes inspected and change them before they are worn out. Once they start making noise, they could be causing damage to the rotor—which costs extra money to repair. For areas of the country that get summer storms, the windshield wiper blades should be checked and possibly changed.
Summer Tire Pressure
When the temperatures rise, so does the pressure in the tires. Over-inflated tires do not wear correctly and may wear out sooner. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines for the amount of air that should be in the tire, then use a tire gauge to check it and adjust as necessary. Tires that are over- or under-inflated can also decrease fuel efficiency.
While checking the tire pressure, check the tread by placing a penny upside down in the grooves. If Lincoln’s whole head is visible, it is time to replace the tires. For a car that has been sitting for a long time, the rubber may have dried up from long-term sun exposure. These tires are no longer safe and should be replaced.
Summer Check-up
Before going on the annual family road trip, it is a good idea to take the car into the shop for a check-up to avoid any unpleasant surprises while driving through the Great Plains of Nowhere. Keeping everything running efficiently can also improve fuel efficiency.
Check the Emergency Kit
Every car should have an emergency kit in the trunk. There are prepackaged ones available on the market that have everything one might need in most emergencies, but a bag with the basics like a flashlight, batteries (stored separately from the flashlight), a blanket, flares and first aid supplies will do as well. While checking the rest of the car for soundness, make sure the kit is still in good order.
Summer is a time for vacations and day trips, and that often means driving. Some simple maintenance at the beginning of the season will keep the car is in good running order.
