Get Your Vehicle Ready for Spring/Summer

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic take their toll on your vehicle, you can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through preparation and maintenance.

Getting Started--The best planning guide is your owner's manual. Read it; and follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules.

Air Conditioning--A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather and may cause the compressor to fail. Have the system examined by a qualified technician.

Cooling System--The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months for most cooling systems. Replace the thermostat if it hasn't been replaced in the last 3 years.  The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant should be checked periodically. (A 50/50 mix of anti-freeze and water is  recommended.)
Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled!
Inspect the radiator for a build up of leaves or bugs and clean as necessary.

OIL--Change your engine oil and oil filter as specified in your manual--more often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer. Summer dust and heat are hard on engine oil. Check the transmission fluid to be sure that it's at the proper level and doesn't smell burnt or look dirty, since heat can make the fluid thinner and less effective. This is especially important for vehicles that are used for towing. Check the owners' manual for the right type of transmission fluid to use.

Engine Performance—Check your records and verify your automobile is not due for a tune-up. Air filters get dirty quicker in the summer. Heat can cause old spark plug wires to fail and is hard on ignition parts. Plug wires should be replaced every 60,000 miles.

Hoses and Belts--Replace worn or cracked belts, as well as hoses that are worn, cracked, blistered, brittle or too soft. Hose problems cannot always be determined visually, it's a good idea to replace them every 4 - 6 years.

Windshield Wipers--A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and get plenty of windshield washer solvent.

Tires--Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressures once a month; let the tires "cool down" first. Don't forget your spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine tires for tread life, uneven wearing, and cupping; check the sidewalls for cuts and nicks.

Brakes--Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Minor brake problems should be corrected promptly. Summer heat can cause brakes to run hotter and wear faster. Contaminated brake fluid can cause loss of braking in extreme heat conditions.

Battery--Since high temperatures can compromise batteries, test and replace old or weak batteries if necessary. Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.
The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment.

Pinging-- Higher temperatures can lead to engine pinging. A higher octane fuel can prevent or lessen pinging..  When temperatures become cooler, return to using the lower octane gas. If changing fuel types doesn't stop the noise, have a diagnostic test by a certified mechanic. Many times fuel injector cleaning may solve this.

Lights--Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs; periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses. To prevent scratching, never use a dry rag.

Body--Get the car washed and waxed. Dirt not only detracts from the appearance of your car, it also holds moisture on the car's surface where it promotes corrosion, chemical reactions and bacterial growth.

Interior--apply a protectant to any vinyl surface including the dashboard, seats and the steering wheel. These are all susceptible to cracking, sun damage and fading – be sure to apply a protectant at the beginning of the season and touch-up regularly.

Emergencies--Even well maintained cars can break down, so on long trips, take along drinking water, a windshield shade, and a cell phone. Also pack a comprehensive emergency kit with a flashlight, extra batteries, warning devices such as flares, jumper cables and a first-aid kit.