Get Your Vehicle Ready For Summer

The heat of the summer months along with increased traffic on the roads will ultimately cause some wear on your vehicle. Regular maintenance during the summer months is essential to ensure your safety and to avoid breakdowns.

Here are some preventative maintenance items to follow before and during the summer months:

Air Conditioning - Make sure that your air conditioning is working well before you get hit with that summer heat. A quick inspection of your A/C system will help make sure all is working properly as well as a top-off of coolant.

Cooling System - Overheating is the number one cause of breakdowns during the summer, due to a combination of engine heat and environmental heat. The cooling system is what cools down your engine as you drive and is vital for summer months. The cooling system fluid should be exchanged every 24 months.

Oil Change - As always, it is important to stay on top of oil changes at the recommended intervals. Low or dirty oil can cause engine problems and overheating which can lead to costly repairs.

Engine Performance - If you notice any engine problem, such as rough driving, stalling, lack of performance, or hard starts, don't hesitate to have your vehicle looked at by a professional. The last thing you want to do is get stuck in the blistering heat with a broken down car!

Windshield Wipers - Although not as necessary in some climates during the summer, it's always a good time to prepare for fall and winter months and have your wiper blades changed.

Lights - Make sure all of your vehicle's headlights are in top working condition. If the lenses are cloudy, use a wax or cleaning solution to remove buildup so that your lights are bright and visible.

Tires - Your tires should be rotated and balanced about every 5000 miles. If you notice that your vehicle is pulling to one side while driving, it may be time for an alignment. Hitting potholes, road bumps, and curbs can force tires out of alignment. Having your tires checked is a great way to prepare for a road trip.

Brakes - If you notice anything out of the ordinary with your brakes, such as a squealing noise or a loss of power, be sure to have your brakes inspected before setting out on any summer adventures.

Battery - Batteries can fail any time of year but tend to get the most corrosion and buildup during the summer. If you're planning on driving your vehicle a lot during the summer, have your local mechanic check the battery for charge just to be sure that it is in good working condition.

If you need assistance getting your vehicle ready for the summer, don't hesitate to stop by our auto repair shop today!