7 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Hot Summer Weather
7 Ways to Prepare Your Car for Hot Summer Weather
Posted on June 6, 2023
The summer months are upon us, and it’s time to get ready for trips to holiday destinations. However, you may not know that preparing your vehicle for harsh weather is essential. Not only will your vehicle be grateful for the TLC, but you’ll save a lot in unwanted maintenance costs and keep your family safe on the road.
Below we discuss our ultimate summer road trip preparation checklist.
Tire Care
It’s essential to change your winter tires to summer tires. Summer tires are designed to be far more durable and handle better on hot asphalt. Also, the correct tire pressure will enable you to get better fuel efficiency, improve road handling and avoid any potential damage to the car’s chassis. Typically, the tire pressure increases by one to two pounds per square inch (PSI) for every six degrees increase in the temperature.
Air Conditioning
Check that your air conditioner works properly and produces a steady, cool airflow. If the air seems warm, you may need to top up the refrigerant.
Fresh Filters
A polluted filter can break your air conditioner, leading to high replacement costs. In the summer, pollen counts are higher, and if you’ve been sitting in a lot of traffic over the winter, you may need to replace your air filter.
Top Up the Fluids
It’s essential that you check all your vehicle’s engine fluids -- coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, and windshield washer fluid -- to avoid any breakdowns.
Furthermore, you need to do an oil check. This can be done quickly with the dipstick. Check that the oil is at the right level while also inspecting whether you need an oil change. If you spot any particle build-up in the oil, it should be changed.
Check the Battery
It’s time to replace your battery if it’s older than four years. It would help to inspect your battery every season for signs of rust and damage. The summer months can be taxing on a battery since it’ll be working overtime, keeping your air conditioner, sound system, and fans running. A dead battery is the last thing you need on a summer trip.
Brake Checks
Your family’s safety on Canadian roads depends on your car being equipped with a good set of undamaged brakes. Test your brakes by checking whether the vehicle pulls to one side and listen for a screeching sound when you apply the brakes.
Any of these signs are an indication that your brakes need a professional inspection. This can be done easily and quickly at a summer car maintenance in Beamsville dealership.
Replace Wipers
The rubber on your wiper blades can become brittle over time, especially during the icy winter months. Test your wipers to see if they leave any streaks on the windshield. If so, it’s time for a new set.