Despite the islands' trade winds, the heat and humidity of a Hawaiian summer can cause your car to work harder than it needs to, so regular summer car maintenance is important. If you're unsure how to ready your vehicle for kau, Hawaii's hot season, Fantastik Auto Repair—the premier car repair shop in Honolulu, HI—is here to help. Below, they offer some important maintenance tips for summer.

Top 5 Summertime Car Maintenance Tips

1. Replace Your Coolant

To prevent overheating, make sure your car's radiator is protected with the right coolant mixture. For maximum cooling capacity, the ratio of water to ethylene glycol—the primary ingredient in antifreeze—must be adjusted occasionally. You can purchase a test kit at a hardware store or schedule an appointment with a reputable auto repair shop.

2. Inspect Air Conditioner

Have your air conditioner inspected for refrigerant leaks and worn belts, and have any problems repaired before the temperatures start to soar. Also, clean leaves and other detritus from around the condenser. This is the mini-radiator that allows your AC to dissipate the heat collected by the refrigerant, and any insulating debris will prevent it from working efficiently.

3. Check the Brakes

Have your brakes checked to make sure the pads and other components are in good shape. Both the summer heat and sudden rain showers will affect how the brake system operates, so it’s important that a professional inspect them for any possible issues.

4. Inspect Radiator Hoses & Belts

Because the cooling system is so important to your car's continued operation during hot weather, it's critical that you check all radiator hoses for signs of wear or cracks. A sudden leak could leave you stranded and ruin your whole day.

5. Install Summer Tires

Summer tires have a smoother tread and are made of stiffer rubber than all-weather tires. Both factors improve your fuel efficiency, and the harder rubber helps the tires last longer before needing replacement.

To make a car maintenance appointment with an experienced technician, contact Fantastik Auto Repair in Honolulu, HI. They offer dependable service at affordable rates and will have your vehicle running at peak performance in no time. Visit their website for a map and business hours, or call (808) 842-3777 to schedule service.