June weather has brought hot, humid conditions, which can strain your vehicle and increase the risk of breakdowns. That’s why regular car maintenance and preventive steps are key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly during the heat.
The AAA auto club said in a website post that air conditioning “puts extra strain on your engine, which can contribute to overheating.” The group said that if “you see the engine temp gauge rising… turn your heat on full blast for a few minutes to help lower the engine temperature and temporarily lessen the burden on the car’s cooling system.”
Without coolant, cars can quickly overheat, especially in summer, according to the California Institute of Technology.
“To maximize efficiency, the engine is designed to warm up quickly,” the university said. “Once the engine reaches the right operating temperature, the engine is designed to be maintained at a stable temperature.”
The school said it is important to check your coolant levels because vehicles can quickly overheat in steamy summer temperatures.
So, drivers, are you taking care of your cars? Here are ways to avoid a breakdown and keep your car running this summer.
1. Check Your Tire Air Pressure
Besides keeping tires inflated, maintaining proper air pressure helps to regulate tire temperature. Underinflated tires can cause them to overheat, increasing the likelihood of a blowout.
Check your tires’ air pressure in hot weather and refer to the manufacturer’s placard, located on the driver’s side doorjamb, to determine the recommended tire pressure.
2. Help Your Car Beat the Heat by Maintaining Proper Fluid Levels
Your car’s cooling system will work extra hard to make sure your vehicle doesn’t overheat. Always check your vehicle’s coolant levels and windshield wiper fluid.
It’s also important to keep up with oil changes in hot weather. High temperatures can cause oil in the engine to thin.
If your car’s air conditioning system seems to be faulty or you notice fluid leaking under your vehicle, have it checked by a professional.
You can also check your car’s coolant levels at home. Simply pop open your vehicle’s hood and make sure the fluid in the coolant reservoir meets the “high” marker.
3. Check Your Car’s Battery
The next time you’re at a mechanic, ask for a battery test and make sure it’s correctly mounted to the car to avoid vibration-induced damage.
Car batteries with full charges should have a voltage reading of 12.6 volts or higher. If your battery is low, change it before it dies.
4. Check the Cabin Air Filter
The cabin air filter helps clean the air you breathe inside your car. Pollen and other debris can increase in warmer months, so it’s crucial to ensure the filter is clean.
If your air conditioning system does not seem to be working properly, have a technician inspect it.
Avoid using your car’s air recirculation feature, as this recirculates hot air inside the car. Instead, use your air conditioner’s fresh air setting.
5. Park Your Car in the Shade
Try to find at least a semi-shaded area to park your car to keep its temperature down.
You can also place a clean Styrofoam or cardboard cup over your gear shift while you’re gone, so it won’t get as hot. Other ways to keep your car cool include tinting your windows or using a sun shield.
6. Keep Emergency Supplies in the Car
It’s good to have flashlights, road flares, nonperishable snacks, bottles of water, and a blanket in your car in case of a breakdown.
Reporting by Mariyam Muhammad and Keith Laing, USA TODAY NETWORK / Cincinnati Enquirer. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect.
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