Summer heat puts extra stress on your car's cooling system, air conditioning, battery and fluids. Before the hottest months, check coolant, hoses and belts, A/C performance, the battery, fluid levels, tire pressure, wiper blades and brakes.
What should you check on your car before summer?
- Coolant level and condition, plus hoses, belts and the radiator
- Air conditioning output, noises and smells
- Battery charge and clean, tight terminals
- Engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid
- Tire pressure and tread
- Wiper blades and washer fluid
- Brakes and suspension
How do you keep your engine from overheating in summer?
The cooling system is your car's defense against overheating. Check the coolant level when the engine is cold, and never open a hot radiator cap. Make sure the coolant is clean and the type your manufacturer calls for. Have the system flushed and refilled on the schedule in your owner's manual.
Look at the hoses, belts and radiator for cracks, leaks or wear. A small leak or a soft hose can turn into a breakdown on a hot afternoon in traffic.
Is your A/C ready for the heat?
Turn the A/C on and make sure it blows cold. Listen for new noises and notice any strange smells. Weak cooling often points to a refrigerant leak or a failing part. A professional check finds the cause instead of just adding refrigerant. Learn more about our car A/C repair in Spring, TX.
Why does hot weather hurt car batteries?
Heat speeds up the chemical wear inside a battery and can dry out its fluid. A battery that seems fine in spring can fail on a hot summer morning. Have the battery tested, and clean any corrosion from the terminals. If the battery is older or slow to crank the engine, replacing it early can save you from getting stranded.
Which fluids should you check in summer?
Besides coolant, check engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and transmission fluid. Heat breaks fluids down faster, and low or old fluid makes parts work harder. Keeping up with oil changes and maintenance is one of the easiest ways to protect your engine.
What about tires, wipers and brakes?
- Tire pressure: Hot weather raises tire pressure. Check it about once a month when the tires are cold, and set it to the number on the sticker inside the driver's door.
- Wipers: Summer storms can come fast. Replace blades that streak, skip or crack.
- Brakes and suspension: Have them inspected for pad wear, leaks and worn parts that affect stability and control.
How can you protect your car's interior and paint?
Strong sun can fade and crack dashboards and seats. Use a sunshade and park in the shade when you can. Wash the car regularly, including the underside, to remove dust and road grime. A coat of wax helps protect the paint from UV rays.
When to see a mechanic
- The temperature gauge climbs above normal
- The A/C blows warm or makes noise
- You see coolant or oil under the car
- The engine is slow to crank
- A warning light comes on
Want a summer check before the heat sets in? R&E Auto Repair is at 930 Rayford Road in Spring, TX. Every vehicle gets a digital inspection with photos and notes sent to your phone, and no work is done until you approve it. If something can wait, we say so. Call 832-585-0229 or contact us to book a visit. We're open Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM.