Summer is drawing near and hot weather is on the horizon, so for safety, efficiency, and longevity, it's important to prepare your car or truck for the season. To help you do that, Dansville Auto Mart, an experienced auto repair shop and used car dealership in New York, offers the following checklist of tasks to accomplish before the start of the season. The guide should help prevent any serious problems due to the heat.

How to Avoid Auto Repairs This Summer

1. Inspect & Replace Tires

If you installed winter tires on the car or truck last year to provide better traction in the ice and snow, it's time to replace them with summer ones. Those made for warmer weather have lower-profile treads and sturdier rubber to improve fuel economy. If you're using all-weather tires, check for wear. Place a U.S. quarter into the treads to gauge depth. If you can see all of George Washington's face, they are worn and need replacement.

2. Change the Oil

You should change the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles to keep the engine lubricated and allow efficient heat dissipation. Moreover, in summer it’s smart to switch to a higher viscosity oil—such as 10W-30 instead of 5W-30—which is thicker, provides a better seal, and flows smoothly in warmer weather.

3. Check the Coolant

The coolant or antifreeze is exceptionally important in summer and helps keep the engine from overheating and sustaining damage. It also prevents radiator corrosion and lubricates the water pump. Have an auto repair facility test the mixture and top off the levels. If it's been a few years since you've had it done, schedule a coolant flush to remove accumulated gunk from the radiator.

4. Check & Service the AC

When the temperatures soar this summer, you'll want an air conditioner that works well. Test it out now before the hot weather sets in and add refrigerant or schedule repairs as needed. Don’t delay the task or risk getting trapped in a sweltering car during a summertime traffic jam.

The checklist above should help keep your car running smoothly, safely, and comfortably this summer. To schedule maintenance or inspection services, contact Dansville Auto Mart, the most trusted used car dealership and auto repair facility in Dansville and the surrounding areas. They'll check out the brakes, tires, AC, coolant, and engine oil to ensure you're set for the coming season. Visit the website to view a map and business hours, or call (585) 335-8280 to schedule an appointment.