Summer Car Care: 7 Essential Tips

Preparing Your Car for Summer Heat

Summer can be a season of road trips and outdoor adventures, but it’s also a time when the extreme heat can take a serious toll on your vehicle. Whether you're commuting in the sweltering sun or embarking on a cross-country road trip, the rising temperatures can cause everything from engine overheating to tire blowouts if your car isn’t properly maintained. Taking the time to perform basic car care can not only extend the life of your vehicle but also prevent breakdowns and ensure a safer, smoother ride.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover seven essential summer car care tips to help you keep your vehicle running at its best during the hottest months of the year.

1. Check Your Cooling System

One of the most important systems in your car during the summer is the cooling system. The engine naturally generates a lot of heat, and without a properly functioning cooling system, it can quickly overheat, leading to severe engine damage.

• Coolant Levels: Make sure your car’s coolant level is topped off. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, prevents the engine from overheating. If your coolant levels are low, fill them up, but make sure to check for any leaks that could be causing the fluid to escape.

• Radiator: Inspect the radiator for any damage or blockages. Debris such as dirt or bugs can reduce the radiator’s effectiveness in cooling the engine. If necessary, clean the radiator’s surface using compressed air or water to remove obstructions.

• Hoses and Belts: Check for any signs of wear or cracking in the hoses and belts connected to the cooling system. Heat can cause these components to become brittle and break, so it’s crucial to ensure they’re in good condition. Replacing a worn belt or hose before it fails can save you from a costly repair down the road.

2. Monitor Tire Pressure and Condition

Your car's tires are directly affected by summer heat, as high temperatures cause the air inside the tires to expand, potentially leading to overinflation and blowouts. Driving on hot pavement only exacerbates this risk, making it critical to keep an eye on your tire pressure and condition.

• Tire Pressure: Always check your tire pressure when the tires are cool (before driving or after the car has been parked for several hours). Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (pounds per square inch). Under-inflated tires can increase fuel consumption and cause uneven wear, while over-inflated tires are more prone to blowouts.

• Tread Depth: Inspect your tires for wear and tear. The tread should be deep enough to grip the road, especially during sudden summer rainstorms, which can make roads slick. Use the penny test: insert a penny into the tire’s tread with Lincoln’s head upside down. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head, it’s time to replace your tires.

• Tire Rotation: Hot weather can cause uneven tire wear. Rotating your tires every 6,000 to 8,000 miles ensures even wear and prolongs their lifespan. This simple maintenance step can improve your car’s handling and extend the life of your tires.

3. Replace Wiper Blades and Check Windshield Fluid

Summer heat can dry out and crack your wiper blades, making them ineffective when you need them most. Sudden rainstorms are common in many parts of the country during summer, and you don’t want to be caught in one with faulty wipers.

• Wiper Blades: Inspect the condition of your wiper blades. If they leave streaks on your windshield or have visible cracks, it’s time to replace them. Ideally, wiper blades should be replaced every six months to a year, depending on the climate.

• Windshield Washer Fluid: Check your windshield washer fluid levels and top them off if necessary. Keeping the windshield clean and clear is essential for visibility, especially during summer when dirt, bugs, and pollen can accumulate quickly.

• Defroster Function: While it may seem like a winter issue, summer humidity can fog up your windshield. Make sure your defroster works efficiently to clear the windshield quickly if condensation forms.

4. Ensure Proper Air Conditioning Function

A well-functioning air conditioning system is crucial for keeping both you and your passengers comfortable during summer drives. A failing AC can turn a fun summer road trip into a miserable experience, especially in regions with extreme heat.

• AC Performance: If your air conditioning system isn’t blowing as cold as it should, it may need a recharge. Over time, refrigerant levels can drop, reducing the system’s cooling ability. Have a professional check the system for any leaks and refill the refrigerant as needed.

• Cabin Air Filter: Your cabin air filter ensures clean air is circulated inside the car. A dirty or clogged filter can reduce airflow and strain the AC system. Replace the cabin air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.

• AC Maintenance: Regular AC system checks can help identify small issues before they turn into major problems. This includes inspecting the compressor, checking for refrigerant leaks, and cleaning the condenser coils. Maintaining the AC system can prevent costly repairs down the road and keep your car cool all summer long.

5. Inspect Battery Health

Heat is a major factor in battery failure, as it accelerates the evaporation of the battery fluid and can lead to corrosion. A dead battery is never convenient, but it’s even worse in the heat of summer.

• Battery Terminals: Start by checking the battery terminals for corrosion, which appears as a white, ashy substance around the posts. Clean the corrosion off using a mix of baking soda and water and a wire brush to ensure a good connection.

• Battery Charge: Test the battery’s charge with a voltmeter or have it checked by a professional. A fully charged battery should read around 12.6 volts or higher. If the battery is weak, it may be time to replace it to avoid getting stranded in the summer heat.

• Securing the Battery: Ensure that the battery is securely mounted in its bracket. Excessive vibrations can damage internal components, shortening the battery’s lifespan.

6. Keep Your Car Clean, Inside and Out

Keeping your car clean in summer is not just about aesthetics—it also protects the vehicle’s paint and interior from sun damage. The sun’s UV rays can fade the paint and crack the interior if left unprotected.

• Exterior Cleaning: Regularly wash your car to remove dirt, dust, and bugs that can damage the paint. Consider waxing the car to provide a protective barrier against UV rays. Wax not only enhances the appearance of your car but also helps prevent the paint from oxidizing.

• Interior Protection: The interior of your car can suffer from extreme heat as well. Use sunshades to protect the dashboard and seats from cracking and fading. If you have leather seats, use a leather conditioner to prevent them from drying out and cracking.

• Vacuuming: Keeping the interior clean of dust and debris not only makes the car more pleasant to drive but also reduces wear and tear on the upholstery and carpets. Plus, it helps maintain a cooler cabin temperature.

7. Have an Emergency Kit Ready

Summer road trips are fun, but they can also be unpredictable. Whether you're stuck in traffic or dealing with a breakdown, an emergency kit can be a lifesaver.

• Water and Snacks: Always keep extra water and non-perishable snacks in the car, especially if you're driving long distances. In the event of a breakdown or extended wait, staying hydrated is essential.

• First Aid Kit: A basic first aid kit should include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications. You never know when you’ll need to treat a small cut or scrape.

• Car Essentials: Your kit should also include jumper cables, a tire pressure gauge, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a basic tool kit. These items can help you handle minor car issues on your own.

• Portable Phone Charger: In case of emergencies, having a fully charged phone is crucial. Keep a portable phone charger in your kit to ensure you can call for help if needed.

Conclusion

Summer heat can be tough on your car, but with proper care and maintenance, you can keep it running smoothly all season long. By following these seven essential tips—checking your cooling system, monitoring your tires, keeping the AC in good condition, and more—you can prevent common summer car issues and ensure a safe, enjoyable driving experience.

At AmeriFreight, we understand that sometimes, driving across long distances in summer isn’t always the best option, especially if you’re moving or going on vacation. Let us handle the transport of your vehicle while you focus on enjoying the summer. Get an instant quote today for a hassle-free car shipping experience.

FAQs

1. How often should I check my tire pressure in summer? It’s a good idea to check your tire pressure at least once a month, and especially before long trips, as heat causes air in the tires to expand, potentially leading to overinflation or blowouts.

2. What are the signs of an overheating engine? The temperature gauge moving into the red zone, steam coming from under the hood, and a strange smell (often sweet or burnt) are all signs of an overheating engine. If this happens, pull over immediately and let the engine cool.

3. How do I know if my car’s air conditioning needs maintenance? If the AC isn’t blowing cold air, takes longer than usual to cool down the car, or if there’s a strange smell coming from the vents, it’s time for maintenance.

4. What should I do if my car overheats on the road? Turn off the air conditioning and pull over as soon as possible. Turn on the heater to draw heat away from the engine, and wait for it to cool before checking coolant levels.

5. Is it necessary to replace wiper blades before summer? Yes, the heat can dry out the rubber on wiper blades, causing them to crack. Replacing them before summer ensures better visibility during unexpected rainstorms.