In the hot days of summer, the last thing that you want to deal with is your car breaking down on the side of the road. The heat can put a lot of stress on a vehicle, which can lead to expensive auto repairs if a vehicle isn't taken care of. One of the easiest ways to prevent car problems during the summer is through good maintenance. Use the following tips to help ensure that your operates properly during the hottest months of the year:
Take a Look at the Hoses and Belts
The hoses and belts under the hood of your car play an important role in keeping your car running smoothly during the summer; the hose connected to the radiator helps ensure that coolant is pumped to the engine, and the belts connected to the fan is also vital in keeping the engine and transmission cool. These belts and hoses can wear out over time, and the heat of summer can make a belt or hose that is already in bad shape snap or crack. At the beginning of summer examine your hoses and belts to see if there is any evidence of wear, cracking or separating into layers of material. If you find evidence of damage, have the hoses and belts replaced immediately to help prevent an inconvenient breakdown.
Check the Coolant Levels
One of the most common car problems in the summer is overheating. Vehicles are designed to run at a certain temperature, and when the running temperature gets too hot, systems can shut down. One of the easiest ways to prevent your car from overheating is by ensuring that the coolant level is correct. During the summer cars need a mix of antifreeze and water in the radiator to keep the car cool; you can purchase coolant that already has the right amounts of water and antifreeze at an auto parts store.
Flush the Radiator
The radiator in your vehicle pumps coolant to the different systems in your car to keep them cool. As you put miles on your car, your radiator can become clogged with debris and fluid build up; when your radiator is flushed, a mechanic uses a special chemical component to remove the debris and build up so your car's radiator can work more efficiently. Visit an auto repair center to have your radiator checked to see if it is time to have it flushed.
Pay Attention to Tire Pressure
The heat from the asphalt on the road, as well as hotter air temperatures, can alter the air pressure in your vehicle's tires. For your safety, as well as proper handling of the car, it is important to keep your tire pressure at the proper pounds per square inch (PSI) as recommended by the manufacturer. A tire that is underinflated may bulge into the sidewall in hot temperatures, which can lead to a dangerous tire blowout while driving. A tire that is overinflated will not grip the road as well, increasing the risk of hydroplaning during summer thunderstorms.
For further assistance, contact a local auto repair service, such as Oak Hollow Tire Car Care Center Inc.
Share6 July 2015
When is the last time you had your brakes checked? Are you waiting until you hear the brake pads grinding into the rotors before you do anything to replace them? Does your car pull to one side when you press on the brakes? Do you feel a shimmying in your steering wheel and brake pedal as you press the pedal to stop? If you have any of these issues, it is time for you to learn how to care for the brakes on your car effectively. Taking preventative measures and getting repair work done before serious problems arise will save you money over the years.
