Keep Passengers From Getting Hot Under The Collar

The heat is on. The National Weather Service with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicts summer 2023 will be one of the hottest on record, for some parts of the country.

As temperatures rise and summer takes hold, ensure your car is prepared to handle the heat. Extreme heat takes a toll on your vehicle, leading to potential breakdowns and costly repairs.

Keep your car running smoothly and your passengers cool during the summer months. Follow these essential maintenance tips:

Summer maintenance tips

• Check your cooling system. The cooling system is your car's defense against overheating in the summer. Regularly inspect the coolant levels and ensure they are topped off. Also, examine the radiator for any leaks or signs of damage.
• Keep an eye on radiator coolant. Engine heat causes fluid to evaporate and break down over time. Old fluid can keep your vehicle engine from cooling properly. Find out from your service advisor if it’s time to flush and replace fluid (check your owner’s manual as well).
• Gauge tire pressure before leaving on a road trip. High temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to overinflation. Not all vehicles are alike. See your owner’s manual for manufacturer's recommendations.
• Test battery condition before long trips. Heat can accelerate battery fluid evaporation and cause corrosion on terminals. An inspection also can let you know if the battery has any signs of leakage, cracks, or corrosion. Clean the terminals with a battery cleaning brush and apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to prevent future corrosion.
• Inspect the belts and hoses under the hood for any signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. Hot weather can cause these components to deteriorate faster, potentially resulting in engine failure.
• Maintain fluid levels because hot weather and long drives can increase the strain on your car's fluids. Regularly check the oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid levels.
• Protect your car’s interior. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and high temperatures can damage your car's interior. Invest in sunshades to protect your dashboard, steering wheel, and seats from harmful UV rays. Additionally, consider using seat covers and applying a UV protectant to prevent fading, cracking, and discoloration.
• Check the climate control system. A functioning air conditioning system is essential for a comfortable drive and keeping your car cool. Test your car's AC system and ensure it is blowing cold air. If you notice weak airflow or warm air, it may be time for a recharge or professional inspection to address any underlying issues.
• Clean air vents to increase flow throughout the cabin. Vents clogged with dust, bugs, pet fur and leaves can reduce air flow.
• Replace serpentine drive belts if they are worn or cracked. A broken belt can cause your engine to overheat and leave you stranded.

Tips to keep your car’s climate under control

Of course, in the middle of summer, it isn’t just about keeping your car from overheating, it’s also about keeping you and your passengers cool as well. Here are a few tips on keeping your car’s climate under control:

• Allow the fresh air in. When you first get into your car, especially on hot days, open the windows or use the fresh air mode for a few moments to let out the hot air trapped inside. This allows the climate control system to cool down the interior more efficiently.
• Use the automatic control mode. Newer vehicles do a good job adjusting temperature, fan speed, and air distribution automatically to maintain the desired temperature. Utilizing this feature can simplify the process and ensure a consistent and comfortable climate.
• Manage airflow and vents. Depending on your preference, adjust the airflow and vent settings to direct air where you want it. For example, in hot weather, you may want to direct more air towards your upper body or face, while in colder weather, directing air towards your feet can help keep you warm.
• Don't rely solely on the max A/C setting. While the max A/C setting can cool down your car quickly, it's not always necessary. Once the interior has reached a comfortable temperature, switch to a lower fan speed or reduce the A/C setting to maintain a consistent temperature without overworking the system. Use the ‘Auto’ setting if your vehicle has one—this function manages the A/C to keep a comfortable temperature while achieving maximum efficiency.
• Use recirculation mode strategically. Recirculation mode can be effective in cooling down the car quickly or preventing outside odors from entering the cabin. For extended periods, switch to fresh air mode occasionally to allow fresh air circulation and prevent stale air.
• Consider humidity when adjusting settings. Using the A/C in combination with the defrost setting in muggy conditions can help dehumidify the interior and improve visibility by preventing window condensation.

July safety reminders

Prepare your vehicle and yourself for summer weather with this some basic maintenance reminders:

• Get the brake system inspected whenever you hear squeaks, squeals, grinding.
• Inspect for cracked, hardened wiper blades in case you encounter summer rains on your travels. Don’t forget the rear wiper blades for SUVs.
• Replace cabin air filters to reduce allergens. Regular replacement of cabin air filters is an inexpensive way to help keep your vehicle healthy and clean.
• Take a peek at the spare tire. Tires experts suggest replacing spare tires every 7 - 10 years or if you see signs of stress bulges, cracks. If you have a full-sized spare, make sure it is properly inflated before your head out of town.
• Get a battery charge test before leaving town. Batteries commonly fail during changes in temperatures.
• Use a two-in-one wash-and-wax or a “quick wax” you can keep in your car during summer travels. You can save time and keep your vehicle looking great this summer.