There is no doubt that preparing your car for a change of season is easier than it ever used to be. With modern rides offering better efficiency and more durability, the parts last longer and you can get optimum performance from your vehicle for a long time. That being said, when the mercury starts rising and spring gives way to summer your car’s need change. After all, the car is a mechanism that needs to be kept in top shape to derive the level of performance you are looking for. Therefore, there are certain things that need to be done beyond thinking about doing a google search for: “oil change near me.” In order to prepare your car for the summer think about:
AC
The foremost cause of car problems during the summer is when you turn on the AC and the engine starts spluttering. The reason for this is that the engine heats up more than normal during the summer days and turning the air conditioning on only makes matters worse. If your engine isn’t tuned up to handle the extra load, there is no way you will be able to use your car’s air conditioning system during the summer.
For this, the radiator needs to be cleaned through and through. Oftentimes, dirt and debris build up in the engine during winter and spring and they need to be removed. Moreover, the air filter might have to be changed, not to forget the coolant has to be topped up. It takes some effort but if you want to use the AC in the summer, get your engine tuned first.
Engine Oil
Get the oil changed on time. If you haven’t had the oil changed for a while, just before summer is the perfect time. The viscosity of the engine oil changes as the weather changes so you need to be mindful of this. It is best to stick to scheduled maintenance as far as oil changes are concerned. Make sure you follow the instructions given in the owner’s manual. Even then, it is a good idea to get the oil topped up before the summer reaches its peak.
Battery
You also need to get the battery checked before summer. The heat impacts the effectiveness of the battery and it may not be able to generate as much power as it did during the winter unless you have it tuned. Moreover, you need to have the battery fluid topped up to ensure there is no chance of under performance. If your car doesn’t get sufficient power, you cannot drive properly, let alone turn on the air conditioning.
Tires
You also need to have your tires checked, particularly if you are taking your car on a long road trip. You need to make sure the tires have ideal air pressure so that you can get the best possible mileage from your vehicle. Moreover, if your tires are old and worn-out, now would be a good time to have them replaced. The heat from the roads can cause excessive wear and tear and also affect your driving experience.
These are some things you need to check to prepare your car for the summer. While you are at it, it is a good idea to have the entire vehicle inspected, including the headlights, indicators, wiper blades and antifreeze. The best thing you can do is bring your car to Chevron Fast Lube today. Otherwise, your car won’t be ready for the grueling summer months and you could face the prospect of breakdowns and costly repairs.
