Summer brings extreme temperatures and heavy traffic with it. Since this season is often associated with out-of-town trips and long drives to vacation spots, it’s important to keep your vehicle in top shape and ready for the journey. Undergoing routine auto maintenance ensures your car will perform well under any conditions. To help you prepare, below are some insights on how summer heat can affect your vehicle and how to combat it.

What Does Heat Do to a Car?

A vehicle’s engine generates tremendous amounts of heat regardless of the season. During summer, however, ambient temperatures are significantly higher, which, in turn, makes the engine’s base operating temperature higher. Lubricating its parts thoroughly with fresh motor oil prevents friction buildup that can lead to overheating. Also, have sufficient coolant in the radiator to manage the engine’s temperature.

The summer heat also causes the air in your tires to expand. If the tires are overinflated, you’ll experience a bumpier ride and risk blowouts. The air conditioner is at an increased risk of failure during this time of year too because of frequent use, making it work harder than usual.

How Can You Combat These Adverse Effects?

Routine auto maintenance prevents heat from affecting your vehicle’s performance. Engine oil, coolant and transmission, brake, and battery fluids evaporate quicker in hot weather, so their levels need to be checked and topped off more frequently in the summer than in other seasons. Low fluids may lead to engine malfunction and expensive repairs. 

Ask an auto maintenance specialist to check the air conditioning system for issues with the condenser fan and compressor, as these components are more stressed in extreme heat. A simple pressure gauge test can also be done by the specialist to ensure the tires are inflated to the correct pressure.

To ensure your car is in excellent condition this summer, have it checked by the auto maintenance experts at P & T Automotive Repair. Located in High Point, NC, this family-owned company has offered affordable auto repair, brake service, wheel alignment, and auto inspection services since 1986. Give them a call at (336) 869-8051 to schedule an appointment or visit their website for more information on their full list of services.