Whether you’re driving to the beach to take advantage of summer’s last few weeks or just to the mall to shop for the new school year, it’s important to remember that the season can affect your vehicle. Direct sunlight—especially in heat magnets like parking lots—can transfer a lot of heat under the hood. To ensure you reach your destination safely, auto service shops are quick to remind clients to check on their car battery. Here’s what you should know about how your battery reacts to extreme heat so you’re prepared.

Understanding How Summer Weather Impacts Your Car Battery

What Extreme Heat Does

Your car battery contains fluids that help give your vehicle a charge. On a hot day full of sun exposure, these fluids can dry up and cause your parched battery to lag in terms of performance. In addition, internal corrosion of critical components is more likely in warm weather. This corrosion can weaken your charge and eventually lead to starting trouble and early replacement.

With this in mind, auto service shops recommend battery inspections in the summer along with your routine oil change. This goes double if you notice your check engine light is on or there’s a slower crank to start your engine. Dim headlights or a bloated battery case also indicate it’s time for battery testing.

How to Prevent Performance Issues

Beyond committing to annual tuneups at your auto service shop, consider embracing a few battery-saving habits. When possible, park your vehicle in the shade or a garage so it’s cooler, and limit your short commutes in which your battery doesn’t have the opportunity to get a full charge. Refrain from using your radio when the engine isn’t on, and always double-check to make sure interior and exterior lights are turned off when you exit your vehicle to avoid draining the battery further. Before long road trips, check under the hood to make sure your battery posts and the case look clean and corrosion-free. 

If you need an upfront and trustworthy auto service shop to check on your battery and provide a comprehensive car tuneup, look no further than High Point Tire & Automotive. Since opening for business over 30 years ago, this family-owned and -operated car and tire service company has provided honest work at fair prices for residents throughout the Piedmont Triad region of North Carolina. Call today at (336) 884-4493 to schedule an appointment and visit their website to learn more about this AAA®-approved auto center.