The impending heat and humidity of summer can exacerbate some car troubles and create more than a few on their own. And though some car owners stick to an ironclad maintenance schedule, many others don't get cars checked regularly. With summer on its way, let's examine the vehicle tune-up tasks for the coming season:
General automotive upkeep tasks
According to the Solution Center blog on Angie's List, a home and auto repair business listings website, most cars can go between 5,000 and 10,000 miles without oil changes, depending on how well they're otherwise maintained. If one of those mileage benchmarks is approaching this summer, getting the oil switched out is a no-brainer. If you're not sure how long it's been, a certified mechanic can easily check and tell you if the oil needs to be addressed now.
Automotive supplies retailer Advance Auto Parts noted that checking the treads of your tires and having them rotated is a good maintenance practice that also can help tell if tires need replacement or repair.
Summer-specific tune-ups
Overheating is arguably the biggest danger cars face in the summer. As such, Advance Auto Parts stated, in the article above, that looking at the level and condition of engine coolant is essential. Also, if the timing belt or other belts and hoses of your engine have sustained any damage, even small cracks, these can worsen with the heat and cause overheating or a complete breakdown. Battery problems, which are sometimes thought of as a winter issue, are actually more common in the summer. The bottom line is that all these components should be checked on by an auto mechanic.
Visibility is just as important in the summer as in winter – the only difference is the source of sight problems (harsh glares as opposed to snow or slush). As such, your windshield wiper blades might be due for a change. Of all these different parts, they are probably the least expensive to replace.
Auto repair franchise Aamco Transmissions stated on its blog that because heat can affect air pressure, it's best to check tire pressure regularly. The source also recommends checking air filtration and emissions control systems. Due to the tendency of gas prices to go up in the summer and put an extra strain on your wallet, you can’t risk that inefficiency.
Finally, you’ll want to drive in comfort this summer. Having your vehicle's air conditioning and fans examined – and replaced if necessary – is an absolute must to keep cool while traveling to your personal and professional destinations.
General automotive upkeep tasks
According to the Solution Center blog on Angie's List, a home and auto repair business listings website, most cars can go between 5,000 and 10,000 miles without oil changes, depending on how well they're otherwise maintained. If one of those mileage benchmarks is approaching this summer, getting the oil switched out is a no-brainer. If you're not sure how long it's been, a certified mechanic can easily check and tell you if the oil needs to be addressed now.
Automotive supplies retailer Advance Auto Parts noted that checking the treads of your tires and having them rotated is a good maintenance practice that also can help tell if tires need replacement or repair.
Summer-specific tune-ups
Overheating is arguably the biggest danger cars face in the summer. As such, Advance Auto Parts stated, in the article above, that looking at the level and condition of engine coolant is essential. Also, if the timing belt or other belts and hoses of your engine have sustained any damage, even small cracks, these can worsen with the heat and cause overheating or a complete breakdown. Battery problems, which are sometimes thought of as a winter issue, are actually more common in the summer. The bottom line is that all these components should be checked on by an auto mechanic.
Visibility is just as important in the summer as in winter – the only difference is the source of sight problems (harsh glares as opposed to snow or slush). As such, your windshield wiper blades might be due for a change. Of all these different parts, they are probably the least expensive to replace.
Auto repair franchise Aamco Transmissions stated on its blog that because heat can affect air pressure, it's best to check tire pressure regularly. The source also recommends checking air filtration and emissions control systems. Due to the tendency of gas prices to go up in the summer and put an extra strain on your wallet, you can’t risk that inefficiency.
Finally, you’ll want to drive in comfort this summer. Having your vehicle's air conditioning and fans examined – and replaced if necessary – is an absolute must to keep cool while traveling to your personal and professional destinations.
