Summer is around the corner and in some parts of the United States it is heating up. With the change in temperature comes the need for a vehicle checkup. Remember, your car responds to the weather just as you do and depending on where you live, it could determine how much care your car needs. Here are some tips to start with:
1. Prepare for Emergencies – You have to consider that each time you drive your vehicle could potentially break down. Will you be prepared? Even if you only travel short distances, if you live in climates where the temperatures are above 100 degrees, you must be prepared. Number one rule, always keep water with you. Secondly, consider buying a first aid kit, flares and a flashlight – vehicles break down at night too.
2. How are Your Hoses and Belts? Your belts and hoses are the veins and arteries of your vehicle. If either of them go you could be in a lot of trouble. Today, many cars are equipped with a serpentine belt that runs all of the accessories; so if that belt breaks, you can lose your power steering, water pump and charging system immediately. A good shop will check for any visible damage, abnormal wear or small hairline cracks. You should replace any belt that shows signs of wear.
Even if a belt appears to be in good condition, it should be replaced every 50,000 miles as preventative maintenance. Like belts, radiator and heater hoses are also made of rubber. Having all hoses inspected periodically for wear, including hairline cracks and soft, bulging spots, might prevent an impending rupture from occurring.
3. How is The Air Conditioning Working? One should have their A/C System checked before it gets hot! Because of the high usage during the hot summer months, this is the time it will be likely to fail. So, if you haven’t had it checked yet, do so now! An air conditioning service will test your vehicle’s system pressures, clean the condenser, visually and electronically inspect hoses, fittings and seals for leaks, check cooling fan operation, check output temperature, and adjust belt if needed. Freon will be added if needed.
4. Check your tires. Heat makes tires react more intensely, so make sure they are neither over-inflated nor under-inflated. An inspection will also tell you how much tread life you have on your tire, as well as alert you to any uneven tire wear, which could indicate an alignment problem. An inspection can also alert you to any visible damage to your tires, which can worsen under intense heat.
5. Wiper blades and windshield wiper fluid should be checked. Any rubber on your vehicle can become brittle and crack, especially if you live in a very warm climate. Replace those worn out and cracked wiper blades before you need them. Make sure that the washer fluid is checked and replenished also.
6. Check Your Oil. While this very well may be the least costly of all the routine maintenance services on your vehicle, its’ importance is critical. Most manufacturers require the oil to be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Most good shops will perform a free bumper-to-bumper safety inspection on your vehicle while doing the lube, oil, and filter service. A safety inspection can consist of everything from checking your fluid levels, conditions of your belts and hoses, brakes, tires, battery and cables, shocks, wiper a washer operations, light operations, air cleaner, water pump, radiator, etc., etc.
7. Battery – Batteries can fail any time of year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
A little prevention will carry you a long way through the summer months making your travels safe and enjoyable.