The temperature is rising and your car is feeling the heat. High temperatures wreak havoc on your vehicle’s engine, hoses, cooling system, fluids and tires. Taking care of these components will keep you on the road and your wallet happy. Here are a few inexpensive tips on how to keep your car cool this summer.
Heat Affects Tires
Heat can cause tire pressure to change. Whether underinflated or overinflated, a change in tire pressure can cause uneven wear, decreased traction and lower gas mileage. It is best to check the tire pressure on a regular basis when temps begin to rise.
Heat Affects Hoses
Extreme temperatures also affect the integrity of the hoses. It is easy to examine the hoses under the hood. Let the car cool down. Then, run your fingers along each hose, checking for any soft spots or cracking. These may be potential sites for leaks.
Heat Affects Fluids
The radiator’s responsibility is to keep your engine cool while driving. Make sure to keep the radiator fluid at the appropriate level and check it for clarity. Depending on the brand your use, the radiator fluid is either green or blue but it should never look cloudy. Cloudiness could be a sign of trouble and should be brought in for a check.
Remember to let the engine cool down before removing the radiator cap. Serious injury can occur if the cap is removed while the engine is still warm because the fluids are hot and under pressure.
Don’t Add to the Heat
Engine oil helps to keep your vehicle’s engine parts run smoothly by reducing friction. Reducing friction reduces wear and tear on engine parts. Reducing friction also reduces heat under the hood. This too will keep your car cool this summer. It is recommended to have the vehicle’s oil changed on a regular basis as per the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Keep it Cool
Help your car give you a comfortable drive. Check on your air conditioner. Is your AC keeping you as cool as you would like? If not, try changing out your cabin air filter. The air conditioner’s motor will have to work harder (creating more heat) if the air filter is dirty. Keep your cabin air filter clean and both you and your car will have a cooler ride. If this does not work, you might want to take it in for a check-up.
If your vehicle’s temperature gauge starts running into the red during stop and go traffic, going up steep grades or while hauling small to moderate loads, it is time to get you car in for maintenance. Do not ignore overheating issues. These may lead to costly repairs. The car care professionals at Southside Auto Repair are here to help you stay on the road and enjoy a cool and comfortable drive.
Happy Travels!
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