Break out those shorts and flip-flops; it’s time for a summer road trip! But before you hit the open road, there are a few things you should do to your car to make sure you have a safe and fun journey.
Hot weather can cause problems for your car – from overheating to flat tires. And we are certain no one wants to spend their summer vacation dealing with car trouble. So, here are a few preventative maintenance tips to help you avoid any summertime hazards.
1. Check Your Tires
One of the most common summer car problems is flat tires. The heat can cause the air in your tires to expand, leading to a blowout. To avoid this, make sure you check your tire pressure regularly. You can find the recommended tire pressure for your car in the owner’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Another way to avoid flats is to get your tires rotated and balanced every few months. It will assist in distributing your car’s weight evenly and prevent any bald spots from forming.
2. Check Your Coolant Levels
How many cars have you spotted on the road with their hoods up? A lot of them are probably there because they’ve overheated. Overheating and summer road trips go hand in hand, but it’s a problem that can be easily avoided.
The first step is to check coolant levels and ensure there’s enough of it. The level should be between the “low” and “full” marks on the reservoir. If it’s below the mark, pour some more until it reaches the full mark. You can use a half-and-half mix of water and antifreeze/coolant.
While you’re at it, check the radiator hose for any leaks or cracks. If you observe any problems, get them fixed as soon as possible.
3. Inspect Your Brakes
Summer’s heat can also take a toll on your brakes. Your brake fluid can evaporate due to heat, making your brakes less effective. Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that helps push the brake pads against the rotors to stop your car.
To check the brake fluid level, open the hood and locate the reservoir. The level should be between the “min” and “max” marks. If it’s low, add more to reach the max mark.
All you need is a can of brake fluid and a clean cloth. Pour the fluid into the reservoir slowly, so you don’t overfill it. Once you’ve added the fluid, use the cloth to clean up any spills.
4. Look After Your Windshield Wipers
Do you think you won’t need the windshield wipers in the summer? You will be surprised how much you use them! Summer rainstorms can pop up out of nowhere, so you must ensure you’re ready with your shield.
The sun can cause the rubber on your windshield wipers to crack and wear out. Store them upright in a cool, dry place when you’re not using them to prolong their life.
If they’re starting to show signs of wear, replace them before they completely fall apart. You don’t want to get caught in a sudden downpour without working windshield wipers!
Wrapping Up:
A team of certified car service experts can help you with all your car maintenance needs – from oil changes to brake repairs.
However, if you’re past car maintenance and want to explore your options for a new car, The Key Online, can help.
Contact us today and let us help get you into the driver’s seat of your dream car.
