Summer Car Care

Many people underestimate the toll summer weather can take on their cars. The scorching summer heat can damage your cars appearance, cooling system, engine, battery and tires. According to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (NIASE), “the greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating.” Overheating can be caused by a malfunction in the cooling fan. Below are some tips that will help you keep your car looking great and in summer-proof shape.

Car Maintenance Tips

1. Make sure your engine’s cooling system is in top shape. Flush and refill the radiator. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically.

2. A qualified auto technician should check the tightness and condition of belts, clamps, and hoses. Have belts and hoses replaced if you notice wear and tear so as to prevent sudden breakdowns.

3. Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a qualified technician. The air conditioners on older vehicles often contain ozone-depleting chemicals that could be released into the air through improper or incompetent service.

4. Change the oil and oil filter. Surveys of technicians indicate that this is the most neglected service, and one that can greatly reduce the life of your vehicle. Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended in the service manual.

5. Check the condition of tires, including the spare. Let the tires “cool down” before checking their pressure. Uneven wear, ‘cupping,’ vibrations, or ‘pulling’ to one side indicates problems with your tires or suspension system.

If you follow these tips, he summer driving season. A

Tips to keep your car looking great

1. WASH YOUR CAR FREQUENTLY! Not only does it keep your vehicle looking great, washing removes loose surface dust and dirt and protects the car by keeping contaminants from bonding to the surface.

2. WAX YOUR CAR DILIGENTLY: Car wax protects your car’s finish like sun block protects skin. And just like your sunscreen, car wax does wear off, we recommend waxing your car a minimum of 3 – 4 times per year.

3. STAY OUT OF THE SUN: Obviously, sun can’t be avoided, but try to park in a garage or covered parking structure on really bright days. Sunlight is one of the most damaging elements that affect a vehicle’s finish and interior.

4. AVOID THE SALT: Summertime means trips to the beach and there’s no way to completely alleviate the ocean’s salt water spray. If a car must be parked near the beach, consider a car cover to reduce exposure to sun and salt.

5. RAISE THE SHIELDS: Use of a windshield sun shade to shield your vehicle’s interior from the sun keeps the light out and helps reduce the amount of heat buildup in the interior.

By following these maintenance and care tips, your car will be driving ready all summer long.