As temperatures rise, drivers face the risk of costly breakdowns that can put a damper on summer road trips. To help drivers avoid unexpected expenses and headaches, AAA Auto Repair is urging vehicle owners to take proactive steps to get their cars summer-ready.
“The summer heat takes a toll on vehicles, and it is easy to overlook the impact it can have,” said John Walter, Chief Auto Repair Officer for AAA Northern California. “As summer approaches, don’t let the heat catch you off guard. Every driver should ask themselves, “Is my car ready for summer?'”
For a smooth and hassle-free summer driving experience, follow these three simple tips from AAA Auto Repair to give your car T-L-C before summer arrives:
- Take charge of your battery. Your car battery might not last as long as you expect. In fact, in hot and humid parts of the country, the life expectancy of an auto battery can drop to around 24 months. To maximize the life of your vehicle’s battery, check regularly for corrosion and replace any loose or damaged parts.
- Level off your fluids. The summer heat causes vehicle fluid levels to drop quickly due to evaporation. To keep your engine running smoothly, keep your fluids topped off, including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, and especially coolant.
- Check Your Tires. High temperatures can cause air to expand, leading to overinflated tires that can bulge, or underinflated tires that create excessive friction on hot roads, increasing the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure regularly to ensure it’s within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
“By taking the time to check your vehicle before hitting the road, you can catch any potential issues early and save yourself from costly repairs down the line,” Walter said. “Plus, you’ll have the peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers are traveling in a safe and reliable vehicle.”
8 comments
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Fake news.
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It’s because of climate change!
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Seriously, more people are taking more road trips more often and/or driving farther.
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Cars on fire because summer?
OMG – Do you know what that car was?
Definitely a Honda Civic. The bucket is somewhat hidden by the flames but I’m guessing 2017 Sport edition.
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Not a car. It was a truck.
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The pic was from a couple of weeks ago… a boom truck that was on NB I-680 near the Hwy 242 split.
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When checking your tires, always check them when they are cold. The best time is in the morning before driving the car. Driving the car will heat up the tires, and the air will expand, causing an inaccurate reading.
What a crock! Motor oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid DOES NOT EVAPORATE!
SHEESH! Maybe check your BLINKER FLUID too.
Car fires and breakdowns can be attribured to poor maintenance and outright ignorance!! The majority of errors of this nature are older citizens, young of age, a certain segment of society, and unfortunately single women regardless of age who do not have help to watch over their vehicles. I am kinda of amazed at the number of disabled vehicles left at the side of roadways and they are are of relative recent vintage!
As for my comment re: older citizens I can believe it is the lack of funds that is needed to maintain any vehicle.
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