The summer offers exciting adventures if you have a reliable car. It's essential to ensure your car isn't at risk of breaking down unexpectedly through regular maintenance. Here is a comprehensive summer car care checklist to help you maintain a trouble-free driving experience during the summer:
1. Check Fluid Levels
Inspect all essential fluid levels, including engine oil, windshield washer, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Ensure they are at the correct levels specified by your vehicle manufacturer.
2. Test Your Battery
Extreme temperatures can cause battery issues - have an auto technician test your battery's health and charging capacity to avoid unexpected failures during summer road trips.
3. Inspect Belts and Hoses
Inspect belts for wear or cracks that may result from heat exposure. Similarly, inspect hoses connected to the cooling system for leaks or bulges caused by aging or extreme temperature fluctuations.
4. Check Tire Pressure and Tread Depth
Hot pavement can lead to increased tire pressure — regularly check tire pressure using a reliable gauge according to manufacturer specifications when tires are excellent (before driving). Also, ensure proper tread depth, as bald tires can be hazardous on wet roads.
5. Clean or Replace Air Filters
Clogged air filters reduce airflow into the engine affecting performance and fuel efficiency – clean or replace them as necessary based on manufacturer recommendations.
6. Inspect Brakes
Brakes play a crucial role in safety — have them inspected by a professional technician who will check brake pads, rotors, and calipers for any damage that may affect braking effectiveness.
7. Test Lights and Wipers
Ensure all exterior lights are functioning correctly; replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly. Too often overlooked, worn-out windshield wiper blades impair visibility during summer rainstorms – replace them if streaking or skipping occurs.
For all your summer car maintenance needs, please turn to the local experts at Rick's Automotive Service Inc in Lawndale, CA!