If you live in an area with very hot and humid summer, it’s important to remember the toll it takes on mechanical components such as your car. Here are some ways to get your vehicle ready for the hot months of summer:
Rotate Tires
If you still have your snow tires, remove them in order to not wear them down on the dry pavement. If you don’t need to change your tires, have them rotated with the new season.
Check Tire Pressure
It is very critical for your car to be driving on properly inflated tires for safety and maintenance. You may need to check your owner’s manual for the optimal tire pressures. If you need to adjust the pressure, do so before you forget. Having the correct amount of pressure will help your tires last longer and even improve your gas mileage. Also, do not check your tire pressure during very high temperatures because the air pressure in a warm tire tends to rise.
Oil Change
This time when you get your oil change, change to a thicker viscosity. You can find this information in your owner’s manual or ask your trusted mechanic. The oil in your car tends to thin the warmer it is. You want to ensure your engine is receiving the proper lubrication so that no damage is done.
Belts & Hoses
Have the belts and hoses in your vehicle inspected at the beginning of summer. If your car is a bit older, you may consider having them replaced so that they don’t fail in the heat of summer. You’ll especially want to do this is you plan on taking a long road trip this summer.
Battery
Hot weather can put an additional strain on your car’s battery similar to during cold weather. If your car’s battery is more than 3 years old, have it tested and make sure the connections and posts are free of corrosion. This is also a good time to double check that you have jumper cables readily available in your car.
Coolant/Antifreeze
The mixture of water and coolant in your car’s radiator should be an even 50/50. For help, check the composition of the mixture with an antifreeze tester. These are sold at auto parts stores and will let you know what to adjust whether it be water or coolant.
Safety Kit
The beginning of every season is the perfect time to restock your emergency kit. Be sure there is bottled water, jumper cables, a flashlight, first-aid kit, gloves and basic tools.