With the return of warmer temperatures, your car needs to be ready to make the transition from the cold, snow, ice, and slush. Proper preparation will help your vehicle meet the demands of summer driving conditions. Below are a few automotive care tips to ensure your car is safe, drivable, and dependable for the months ahead.

How to Get a Car Ready for Summer

1. Turn on the Air Conditioner

Give the AC a test run to make certain it's producing a steady stream of cool air. A lack of it can signal any number of potential problems, such as a clogged air filter, low or leaking coolant, or a broken fan motor.

Also, be mindful of unusual noises coming from the AC. A squealing sound can indicate a problem with the serpentine belt; a buzzing may be a sign of a faulty compressor; and rattling is often an issue with a compressor pulley. Have any AC malfunctions addressed by a repair professional.

2. Tend to Your Tires

If you have seasonal tires, now is the time to take off the winter ones and replace them with summer varieties. Winter tires are made of a more pliable rubber so they can maintain their flexibility in the cold, but once summer hits, the heat can make this softer rubber wear away faster.

If you have all-season tires, check the air pressure. Optimal air pressure tends to vary between vehicles, so consult your owner's manual for your car's exact specifications. In general, a psi of 30 to 35 is preferable.

3. Wash the Car

No automotive care routine is complete without a thorough wash. Over the winter, all sorts of salt, gravel, and grime can build up on and inside a vehicle. On the exterior, use a soap designed for cars, a scrubbing mitt, and a moderate spray from a garden hose for rinsing.

Dry with a microfiber cloth. For the interior, remove and vacuum the floormats; vacuum floors, seats, consoles, dashboard, and vents; remove any trash that's accumulated over the winter; and organize the glove compartment and the trunk.

By following these tips, your vehicle will be in good shape to handle your summer driving needs. You should also schedule a pre-summer tune-up. Springdale Automotive has been providing automotive care services to the Cincinnati, OH, area since 1987. They offer car repairs and maintenance, as well as 24/7 towing. Call (513) 860-2760 or visit them online to schedule your next service.