Temperatures are rising, which means it’s time to prepare your car for the summer. From checking the coolant level to preparing for emergencies, there are various steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle. Let’s go over some top car care tips for the summer months.
Check Your Coolant Level
Take a minute to check your car’s coolant level before driving this summer. If your coolant is low, your engine could overheat. Then, the car won’t run, and you could end up with catastrophic damage. Add coolant if it’s low, and keep an eye on the level. Low coolant could mean you have an external or internal leak.
Test Your Battery
The heat can damage your car’s battery, so make sure it’s in good working order. Open the hood and check for leaks, cracks, and other problems. If it looks good and is less than three years old, you are good to go. However, if your battery is older, you should take it to a mechanic to have it tested. It won’t take long to get it tested, and it could prevent you from getting stranded on the side of the road this summer.
Check the Tire Pressure
You probably know that driving on poorly inflated tires can impact gas mileage and performance. However, you might not realize that underinflated tires are prone to overheating. Overheated tires can explode, putting you at risk when driving. Check the tire pressure regularly during the summer months and add air as needed. If you notice that you have to add air weekly, check for a leak. You might need to repair or replace your tires.
Also, make sure you check the tire pressure at the right time. Always check the pressure when the tires are cold. If you check the pressure right after driving, you might get an inaccurate reading.
Fill Your Tank at Optimal Times
Heat affects gasoline, so only fill up in the morning. Fuel is denser when it’s cool, meaning you’ll get more value from each fill-up. If you wait until it’s hot, you could end up spending more to get the gas you need to fill your tank.
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Have an Emergency Kit on Hand
You should always have an emergency kit in your vehicle in case something happens. Be sure to include some items that will help you stay cool during the summer. For instance, throw in some bottled water, so you don’t get dehydrated while waiting for help.
It’s even easier to keep your car cool during the summer when you get a new ride from Berglund Automotive in Roanoke, Virginia. We carry new and used vehicles from top manufacturers, including Chevrolet, Ford, Buick, Jeep, and GMC. Your new vehicle will be ready for the season, so you can just hop in and drive to your destination.
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