Alaska is known for its mild summers, but an unusual heat wave or a mechanical problem can still cause your vehicle to overheat. This can potentially result in warped parts, busted gaskets, and other extensive damage. Some of the issues caused by overheating could even ruin your engine, so it pays to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place. Below are some tips for keeping your car from overheating this summer.

4 Tips for Keeping Your Car From Overheating

1. Replace Your Battery

Alaska’s winters can be especially hard on car batteries, which lose efficiency in cold weather. If the battery is weak, the engine may be working harder than necessary, which can cause temperatures to redline.

2. Put Coolant in the Radiator

In a pinch, pure water can be used to cool the engine, but you should always replace it with the recommended coolant as soon as possible. Along with keeping your radiator from freezing in the winter, antifreeze contains additives that prevent rust and corrosion, preventing leaks that often lead to overheating.

3. Have a Professional Check Your Coolant System

Every time you get your oil changed, have the technician examine the radiator and check the condition of the hoses too. A small pinhole can become a huge problem later, so correcting the issue early can save thousands of dollars later.

4. Turn on the Heat

If your engine temperatures are creeping up, turning on the heat can draw hot air out from under the hood. Driving in the summer with the heater may be a bit uncomfortable, but it could get you to the next service station without overheating.

If you’re working on an overheated vehicle, the professionals at Northwest Auto Parts have the high-quality, affordable parts you need to get the job done. They’ve been serving the Anchorage community since 1981, building a reputation for honesty and an extensive inventory of over 60,000 parts. Visit their website to search though their selection of engines, radiators, and other parts. Get get more insights and updates on Facebook, or call (800) 770-6531 to speak with a member of their team today.