With rising temperatures, summer can be rough on your vehicle. But are you ready?
To help lessen the odds of mechanical mishaps in the coming months, we encourage you to keep up with routine maintenance.
1. Avoid Overheating: Have the Cooling System Serviced
Summer driving should include an inspection of the vehicle’s cooling system. Hose and clamp condition along with cleaning the accumulated debris from the radiator and air conditioning condenser will make the cooling system and air conditioning operate more efficiently. To make sure your cooling system is up to par, have the level and strength of the coolant and anti-freeze checked on an annual basis, beginning at 30,000 miles or three years. And because not all coolants are compatible, only use the coolant recommended by the specific vehicle manufacturer.
2. Avoid Fuel Pump Failures: Keep Your Tank ¼ - ½ Full
Do not consistently run your vehicle low on fuel. Traditionally, in-tank fuel pumps fail about four to five times as often in the summer due to the excessive heat. The fuel pump will remain much cooler when submerged in the fuel. Try to keep at least one-fourth to one-half tank of fuel at all times When buying gas, don’t forget to fill up at the pump.
3. Avoid the Fray: Have Engine Performance Checked
Between the high humidity and increased temperatures, summer weather can inevitably worsen the condition of deteriorating belts and hoses - resulting in a possible breakdown while on the road. For proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system, check for cracks, fraying, leakage, swelling, or other signs of excessive wear. And while belts and hoses in modern cars last longer, it doesn’t mean they don’t have the potential to fail. In addition, have other filters replaced (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended; but more often in dusty conditions. And if you experience any engine drive-ability problems, such as hard starts, rough idling, stalling or even diminished power, get it checked out.
4. Avoid Drag: Wash Your Car
Heavy dirt particles tend to increase wind resistance or will create more drag on a car’s surface which will cut fuel economy. A simple solution is to wash your vehicle frequently. It is suggested that cleaning the undercarriage of your vehicle can help lessen damage caused by corrosion and rust; it removes salt, sand, grime and other roadway chemicals, built up over the winter and spring months, for a safer drive.
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