The Best Summer Car Washes

Remember when you were a kid, and one of your favorite things to do was go through the car wash? Even as an adult, admit it, you still enjoy those trips to the car wash. While the traditional car washes where the “rags and machines are hummin’” certinally get the job done, sometimes the best car wash is the one you do yourself.

Summer is a great time to grab the hose and get out in your driveway to wash your own car! You can even purchase professional auto wash and wax products- even car care kits (enough product to last all summer) for reasonable prices at many local stores. You will get a great sense of pride knowing you made your car sparkle and shine like new, plus it’s a fun way to spend a hot afternoon!

If you don’t want to dirty your driveway, spin by the do it yourself wash on the way home. Whether your car is in need of a quick rinse or an all out bath, simply pop in a few quarters, and you can have fun with that foaming brush- you know you want to! You can even give your car a quick vacuum treatment while you are there-bonus!

Do not forget that during the summer months you can always find local school groups hosting those parking lot car washes to earn funding for competitions and other events! Prices are usually reasonable plus it’s a fun experience for both the you and the kids. Not only do you come away with a clean car, you help support your community!

This summer, whether you are soaping up your ride in the driveway, at the do it yourself place, stopping by the local cheerleader car wash, or even riding through the traditional car wash- just make sure you don’t “work your fingers to the bone!”

Hey, what are you waiting for “get your car washed today!”

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.