When the full days of summer make their appearance, often many people will find themselves spending more time in their cars. The nice weather brings people out of their homes to enjoy the heat and see the scenery. Additionally, many people travel and take vacations over the summer. Taking a road trip is becoming popular again, and many will embark on a road trip of some kind this season.
With the added road time, it is very important that vehicles be ready for the summer. Without proper preparation and maintenance, the vehicle may not perform at its best, and the fun time on the road may turn into a nightmare.
Maintenance:
Oil
While this is likely not the first item that comes to mind when thinking of a summer vehicle checklist, it is likely the most important. Depending on whether, and how hard a vehicle is working, oil levels can fluctuate. Some vehicles burn oil faster than others, so this is important to monitor.
It is a good idea to change your oil prior to the season starts, especially if taking a trip. Changing oil at home is easy, and only requires a little time, clean oil, and a new filter. It is a very good idea to completely change your oil prior to a vacation or trip, to avoid losing oil on a long driving trip.
Engine Fluids
Maintaining optimal fluid levels in your vehicle during the summer months is very important. The fluid that should be monitored the most is the engine coolant. Especially in extreme heat, the coolant is imperative for a healthy engine. A quick, couple minute check will set you up for success with your summer driving.
Tire Pressure
Setting tire pressure at the dealer recommended level, and keeping it there, is important for summer driving. Keeping the tires at this pressure will be better for long periods of driving. Tires with low air pressure are also a safety hazard.
Belts
A good time to make sure that all engine belts are free of any form of degradation is during the summer, prior to taking a trip. The belts are what keep the engine running, and if a belt breaks or fails, it can be a huge setback for summer traveling. A belt that will be sorely missed if it fails is the AC belt. When this belt is failing, the AC and defrost will likely not work. Without AC, a summer road trip would be a much tenser experience.
As long as proper care is achieved in your vehicle, summer driving will likely be a fun and carefree experience. All it takes is a little planning and attention to what the vehicle needs, especially when it comes to the heat of summer.
