As your car comes out of a cold winter and into warmer weather, you may want to give attention to the following five areas that are affected by the change in the climate. Here are five car care tips for this summer.
Care Tip #1 – Battery
In winter your battery is taxed by the coldness of the engine. In summer it is more prone to corrosion and fatigue due to the heat. It is a good idea to have your terminals cleaned and to check the battery charge levels during the summer months.
Care Tip #2 – Air Conditioner
In summer, A good air conditioner is a working air conditioner. Pop over to our shop to have your AC tested and to have the refrigerator gas topped up if needed. You'll be impressed by the improvement in its performance.
Care Tip #3 – Tires
Tires gain about 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit it gets hotter outside. Using a pressure gauge, regularly check your tire pressure. Do the same for your spare tire to avoid nasty surprises.
To check your tire threads in an uncomplicated way, do so with a quarter by inserting it into your tread groove. If the tread touches Washington's head, you have at least 4/32 inches of tread remaining.
Care Tip #4 - Radiator and Coolant
Summer is a good time to flush your radiator and replace the coolant. A coolant is a liquid used to prevent the water in your radiator from freezing in winter, but also to prevent your car from overheating in summer.
Flushing the engine cooling system out annually in summer is a good practice where temperature differences in summer and winter are great.
Care Tip #5 - Windshield
Your windshield is double bonded for safety and cold weather impacts the bonding, especially if temperature changes are sudden. Check for hairline cracks and clean any residue that may have formed. With the sunny weather upon us, a clear windshield is essential.
While you're at it, check that your wiper blades are not damaged. If they feel rough or if you find that are not clearing water off the windshield surface, have them replaced. Consider investing in polarized sunglasses too.
If you need help getting your vehicle ready for the Summer months, we invite you to bring your vehicle to our auto repair shop today!