Summer Vehicle Tips For Worry-free Travel

After Memorial Day, summer road trips become the ultimate destination and your vehicle becomes your home away from home with the open road as your guide.

Knowing how to maintain your car’s climate control system, no matter what weather situation you find yourself in, is an important part of your safety and personal comfort level while out on the open road.

So, learn how to keep cool with these climate control tips for your next summer road trip.

Maintenance tips to keep your car’s cooling system running smoothly

• Get an air conditioning inspection before going on the road this summer to identify any problems that could become an expensive repair far from home.
• Ask your service advisor to check belt tension and inspect for cracks in serpentine drive belts. A broken belt can cause your engine to overheat and leave you stranded.
• Check coolant levels. A low level of radiator fluid is one of the most common causes of inefficient climate control systems. Fluids diminish over time through evaporation, especially from summer weather.
• Ask about a coolant flush to replace worn out coolant/antifreeze solution. Heat and time break down the chemicals. The system needs to be cleaned and refilled periodically to maintain performance and prolong the life of parts.
• Clean vents to increase flow throughout the cabin. Vents clogged with dust, bugs, pet fur and leaves can reduce air flow.
• Check all fan settings. Do you notice any cool air when adjusting temperature?
• Ask your service advisor to inspect the vehicle’s air conditioning compressor. Components of the climate control system may need to be replaced.
• Hot air from the a/c does NOT always mean “add refrigerant.” It could be a blown fuse--or something entirely different.

Tips to keep your car’s climate under control

• Start with fresh air: 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.
• Set the appropriate temperature: Set the temperature to a comfortable level for you and your passengers. Remember that setting the temperature too low or too high can strain the system and impact fuel efficiency.
• Use the automatic mode: Many cars come equipped with an automatic climate control mode. This mode adjusts the 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 recirculation mode strategically: Recirculation mode can be effective in cooling down the car quickly or preventing outside odors from entering the cabin. However, for extended periods, switch to fresh air mode occasionally to allow fresh air circulation and prevent stale air.
• Consider the humidity: In humid conditions, using the A/C in combination with the defrost setting can help dehumidify the interior and improve visibility by preventing condensation on the windows.

Of course, none of this works if your car’s A/C system is on its way out. And as with any other vehicle component, routine maintenance and early detection are your best bet against summer vehicle breakdown. 

Other June driving safety 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.
• Consider replacing wiper fluid with solutions designed to remove “bug goo.” Late spring and early summer are primetime for hordes of flying insects.
• 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.
• Check your tires. Look at air pressure, which can fluctuate with the change of seasons and rising temperatures. Inspect tires for bulges or tears that may have occurred from hitting a pothole.
• 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.