Whether you buy a new or used car, properly maintaining it in the warmer months can be a challenge. Heat can affect nearly every part of your vehicle. To keep your functioning at full capacity in hot weather, remember a few simple tips.

How Does Heat Affect Your Car?

1. Alters Tire Pressure

The heated pavement and high temperatures may cause your tires to expand beyond the recommended PSI — which you can find in the owner’s manual. To avoid overinflation or a blowout, use an air pressure gauge to check your tires regularly and adjust them if necessary.

2. Causes Battery Failure

Not only can hot temperatures cause the battery acid to evaporate, but the battery itself may overheat and vibrate and create friction, which could lead to further malfunctions. Make sure the battery is properly mounted, check it often for corrosion, and carry jumper cables with you in case it needs a boost.

3. Thins Oil

Oil breaks down faster in the heat, so it can become too thin to lubricate and protect the engine parts. You can use a thicker oil during the warmer months, but it’s best to change the oil as recommended by your owner’s manual.

4. Overheats Coolant

Low levels of coolant combined with hot outdoor temperatures can damage the engines of new and used cars alike. Overheated coolant may be unable to keep the engine cool enough to run. Choose coolants with high boiling points, and make sure your car is always topped up.

5. Evaporates Gasoline

Although gasoline performs well in the heat, the sun’s energy can make it evaporate faster than it does in cold weather. Whenever possible, keep the car in shaded areas to prevent this from happening as quickly. Refill the tank as often as you can as well to avoid running out at an inopportune moment.

6. Clogs Air Conditioner

Since your air conditioner will likely be working harder in the heat to keep you cool, you’ll need to keep it maintained so that it doesn’t strain itself to the point of breaking down. Make sure the cabin filter is clear of dust, dirt, and debris. Replace it if necessary.

If you’re looking for a good deal on a car to drive around in the heat, head to a reputable used car dealership, like Discount Auto Sales in Mountain Home, AR. They offer a wide selection of dependable pre-owned cars to suit any preference. To help you finance a used car loan, they also provide car trade-in services. Learn more about their inventory by calling (870) 425-1775 or sending them an online message.