Checklist: 10 Ways To Protect Your Vehicle This Summer

Summer is a great time to hit the road and explore new places, but it also brings many challenges for your vehicle. Hot temperatures, long road trips, and increased traffic can take a toll on your car, leading to costly repairs and breakdowns. To keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid unexpected expenses, follow these 10 tips to protect your vehicle this summer.

Check Your Battery

Summer heat can strain your battery, causing it to fail when you least expect it. To avoid this, have your battery tested by a professional auto repair shop. They can check the voltage and ensure it operates at the right level. If your battery is weak, it's best to replace it before it dies and leaves you stranded.

Check Your Tires

Your tires are the only part of your vehicle that touches the road, so they are essential for safety and performance. Hot temperatures can cause your tires to lose pressure, leading to poor handling and reduced fuel efficiency. To avoid this, check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the recommended level. Also, inspect your tires for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, bulges, or punctures. If you notice any of these issues, have your tires replaced by a professional mechanic?

Check Your Brakes

Your brakes are crucial for safety, especially in heavy traffic or when driving on steep hills. Hot temperatures can cause your brake fluid to boil, reducing stopping power and brake fade. To avoid this, have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic. They can check your brake pads, rotors, and fluid level, and replace them if necessary.

Check Your Cooling System

Your cooling system keeps your engine at the right temperature, even in the hottest weather. If your engine overheats, it can cause serious damage and leave you stranded. To avoid this, have your cooling system inspected by a professional mechanic. They can check your radiator, hoses, and water pump, and make sure they are working properly. Also, make sure your coolant is at the right level and replace it if necessary.

Change Your Oil

Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and it needs to be changed regularly to keep your engine running smoothly. Hot temperatures can cause your oil to break down faster, leading to reduced lubrication and increased wear and tear. To avoid this, have your oil changed by a professional mechanic. They can use the right type and viscosity of oil for your vehicle and replace your oil filter at the same time.

Keep Your Car Clean

Summer is a great time to show off your vehicle, but it's also a time when it can get dirty quickly. Road grime, bugs, and salt can damage your paint and reduce your visibility. To avoid this, wash your car regularly and use high-quality car shampoo and wax. Also, clean your windows and mirrors to ensure good visibility while driving.

Protect Your Paint

Your paint is not only for looks but also protects your car from the elements. Summer heat, UV rays, and acid rain can damage your paint and lead to rust and corrosion. To avoid this, apply a high-quality car wax or paint sealant that contains UV protection. Also, park your car in the shade whenever possible and avoid parking under trees that can drop sap or bird droppings on your paint.

Park in the Shade

Parking in the shade can help protect your car from the sun's harmful rays and reduce the temperature inside your vehicle. It can also help prevent your dashboard, seats, and other interior components from cracking and fading. Whenever possible, park your car under a tree or in a covered area, such as a garage or carport.

Check Your Wipers

Summer storms can come unexpectedly, and it's essential to have working wipers to maintain good visibility. Check your wipers for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, streaks, or skipping. If your wipers are not working correctly, replace them with high-quality wiper blades that are designed for your vehicle.

Be Prepared

Even with the best preparation, unexpected events can happen. That's why it's essential to be prepared for emergencies. Keep a basic emergency kit in your car that includes a flashlight, jumper cables, a first-aid kit, a tire pressure gauge, and a spare tire. Also, make sure you have your insurance information, registration, and driver's license with you at all times.

Conclusion

Summer is an excellent time to enjoy the open road, but it also brings many challenges for your vehicle. Follow these ten tips & you can protect your vehicle and avoid unexpected expenses. Remember to check your battery, tires, brakes, cooling system, and oil regularly. Also, keep your car clean, protect your paint, park in the shade, check your wipers, and be prepared for emergencies. If you need help thinking of inspiration for your list, try using AI tools like ChatGPT and ask it to help write a list for you! With these simple steps, you can enjoy a safe and worry-free summer driving experience.

Schedule a service appointment via our website. You can also Text "SPECIALS" to (239) 330-2746 and receive $10 off your next service visit. You can use that extra money for your Valentine's Day gifts! We are open Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM, and you can find us at 3661 Mercantile Ave. #A, Naples, FL 3410