Summer is a time for road trips and other outdoor adventures, but to get to your destination, you need to take care of your car. Prioritizing a few essential auto services will keep your vehicle operating efficiently and safely. The following tasks should be on the top of your to-do list before any big summer trip.

Top 3 Auto Services to Take Care of This Summer

1. Keep It Clean

Cleaning your car has much more than just aesthetic value. Summer sun exposure is harsh to vehicle paint, especially if you don’t wash and wax it. Bird droppings, tree sap, and other debris can gradually corrode your paint when baked into place by the sun. A protective layer of wax will help preserve your paint job. You can also protect your car by washing it regularly and parking in the shade whenever possible.

2. Coolant System Inspections

Your coolant system keeps your engine and other moving components from overheating, which is an absolute must during the summer. While a coolant flush is generally only needed after 100,000 miles, it’s still a good idea to go to an auto service center to inspect the fluid, hoses, and belts. Leaks at the connection points or soft hoses could compromise your system and lead to expensive repairs.

3. Check Tire Pressure & Wear

Rising temperatures can affect your tire pressure, which can increase your risk for a blowout. You should also check for tread depth with the penny test. Stick a penny in your tire’s tread. It should be upside down and have Lincoln’s head facing you. If the entirety of Lincoln’s head is showing after insertion, it’s time for new tires. In addition to checking the pressure and tread monthly, you should inspect your tires for uneven tread wear, cracks, or other damage that could increase your risk for a flat. Addressing any repair or replacement needs before your next trip will help you avoid an accident. You can extend the lifespan of your tires by scheduling tire rotations at your local auto service shop at the same time as an oil change.

Whether you need routine auto services or emergency roadside assistance, you can rely on Griff’s Auto Service. Serving Monroe County, NY, their ASE-certified technicians have been recognized as a AAA Top Shop for 10 years in a row. To learn more about their services, including 24-hour towing, visit them online or call (585) 227-8700.