Summer is the perfect time to plan a road trip. And yet, as much as you might be enjoying the hot weather, it can cause problems for your vehicle. To make sure you don’t have to deal with a flat tire or a dead battery in the middle of your well-deserved vacation, follow the preventive care tips in the guide below. 

A Guide to Summer Vehicle Maintenance

1. Check Coolant Levels

The blazing summer sun can quickly overheat your vehicle if it’s not topped off with the appropriate cooling liquids. Therefore, pay special attention to the “engine overheat” light on your dashboard or any steam leaking from underneath the hood. Even if there is no visible problem, check your coolant levels regularly and top it off when it’s low.

2. Monitor Tire Pressure

Imagine driving up the side of a mountain or down a busy highway when you suddenly get a flat tire. Not only can this be inconvenient, but also incredibly dangerous for you and your family. Therefore, even if you can’t do anything to control the increase in road construction during the summer—and the hazards that this, sometimes, presents, you can perform a quick pressure check every month. The recommended PSI for your vehicle’s tires is usually located on the inside panel of the driver side door. You can further reduce the risk of a flat tire by parking in the shade as much as possible.

3. Schedule a Battery Inspection

Summer’s extreme heat can evaporate the fluid in your vehicle’s battery, quickly ending any fun journey you’re on. Before the road trip season starts, schedule a battery inspection at a trustworthy auto shop. At the same time, they can also look over the alternator and starter.

If your summer trip is unexpectedly stopped because of auto issues, call on Mt. Burney Towing in Shasta County, CA. Whether you were sidelined by a flat tire, dead battery, or any other type of mechanical problem, the experienced tow service will be there at any hour of the day to provide assistance. Keep their number, (503) 335-3333, in your phone in case of emergency or visit their website to learn more about their available services.