As the winter chill fades and temperatures begin to rise, most drivers are starting to plan weekend road trips and summer getaways. However, the sweltering summer heat takes a heavy toll on vehicles. Proper high-temperature maintenance is not only essential for ensuring comfort but also for preventing costly breakdowns on the highway. Taking the initiative to maintain your vehicle before the peak season can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Here are five essential car maintenance measures that every car owner should take before the height of summer arrives.
1. Check the battery and clean the terminals. Most people associate a dead car battery with a cold winter morning, but actually, overheating is the battery’s biggest enemy. High temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions inside the battery, causing the battery fluid to evaporate quickly, thus shortening the battery’s overall lifespan. Have a professional check your battery’s charge, especially if it’s over three years old. Additionally, check around the terminals for white or blue crust-like corrosion and remove it with a stiff brush to ensure a secure connection.
2. Check the cooling system and coolant. In hot weather, the engine needs to work harder, so the cooling system is the first line of defense against severe overheating. Check the coolant reservoir to ensure the level is normal. If you can’t remember the last time you flushed the radiator, now is the time. Don’t forget other important fluids after opening the engine compartment. Engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid all need to be topped up, as they help dissipate heat generated by internal moving parts.
3. Check tire pressure and tread depth. Tires require close monitoring due to seasonal temperature changes. For every 10-degree Celsius change in ambient temperature, tire pressure fluctuates by approximately 1 to 2 pounds per square inch (PSI). Underinflated tires deform more, leading to overheating and significantly increasing the risk of a blowout on hot asphalt. Check tire pressure when the vehicle is cool, referring to the specification label on the driver’s side door frame, not the maximum PSI value indicated on the tires.
4. Assess the braking system and replace reliable components. Braking generates significant friction and heat. In summer, when road surface temperatures rise, the braking system’s heat dissipation efficiency decreases, leading to brake fade and reduced braking force. When parking, listen carefully for any unusual squealing, scraping, or clicking sounds. If the brake pedal feels soft or the steering wheel vibrates when braking, the brake discs may be deformed or the brake pads may need immediate replacement.
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5. Check the Air Conditioning System. Nothing can ruin a wonderful summer road trip more than a malfunctioning air conditioning system. Set the air conditioning to the lowest temperature and highest fan speed to see if it blows out cold air. If it only blows out warm air, it may be due to insufficient refrigerant (indicating a leak) or the air filter being clogged with seasonal debris such as spring pollen. Replacing the dirty air filter is a quick and effective solution that can immediately improve airflow and cabin air quality.
Taking the time to perform these key maintenance tasks now will ensure your car runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently all summer long. A few pre-trip checks will guarantee a smooth summer journey and wonderful memories, rather than being bogged down by unexpected emergency repairs.
