From coast to coast, the summer months bring about warmer temperatures. These elevated temperatures aren't just taxing on your body, but they can be equally burdensome for your car. Want to avoid a breakdown? Learn what important steps you can take to beat the heat and keep your car happy.
Avoid Long Idling
Most people hate getting into a hot car. Many people think starting up your car and letting it sit for a few minutes with the A/C on before getting inside would be the ideal fix. Not so much. Sure, the inside of the car may be cool, but under the hood, specifically the engine, will be overly hot. An engine that overheats is subject to malfunction, if not complete failure. Avoid letting your car sit in an idle position for too long whenever you can.
Know the Status of Your Battery
Always be mindful of the status of your battery during the summer months. Just as extreme cold can drain a battery, extreme heat can be even more troublesome. High heat levels don't just drain energy from the battery, they can cause the internal components to break down. Whatever the case, you'll be left with a car that won't start. If you have a battery that you know is on its last leg, now is the time to change it. If you wait until summer, it might just be too late.
Frequently Check Fluids
It's also wise to make it a habit to check the fluids in your vehicle often. This is true from your engine oil level to your transmission fluid to your brake fluid. In addition to lubrication, many of these fluids also have a cooling effect, which is critical to preventing overheating during the warmer months of the year. If any of these fluids are low, ensure you're topping them off as soon as possible to prevent costly damage to your vehicle.
Slowly Cool Your Car
In addition to not idling with the air conditioning on, don't cool your car off too quickly. An example of this would be turning the A/C on high as soon as you turn on the car. This can shock the glass inside the car and lead to your windshield cracking. Depending on the size and location of the crack, you may be unable to operate the vehicle. Always turn the A/C on a low setting and slowly increase it so that you aren't shocking the glass.
These tips keep your car healthy and, most importantly, they keep you from being stranded on the side of the road. Ensure you're taking care of your car all summer long. For more information, contact local professionals like Shasta County Towing.
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