Overheated? Five Tips for Drivers in the Hot Summer Sun
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Photo Credit: Daniele Pesaresi via Compfight cc
The 90 plus degrees is especially tough on an aging car population but most of the summer time breakdowns can be avoided with some basic maintenance.
According to Rich White, executive director of the Car Care Council, “It takes very little time or money to make sure your car runs properly during summer, and although breakdowns happen, they can definitely be minimized by taking a few extra preventive maintenance steps.”
AAA highlights five areas to which a driver should pay attention before venturing out on a hot drive.
1. Battery: Hot weather is almost as damaging to a cars battery as severe cold. For all types of battery, clean any corrosion from the terminals; secure all connections to make sure it is firmly attached and free from vibration. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which in turn damages the internal structure of the battery.
2. Engine Fluids: Check all levels of fluids as hot weather driving puts a big demand on engine oil, transmission, brake and power steering fluids. An obvious but often overlooked element to car care is regular oil changes. The fluids levels should all be checked at any quality facility.
3. Cooling System: Radiator coolant should be flushed and replaced periodically. The owner’s manual will provide the service schedule. Between flushing, check the fluids in the cooling system. Also check the radiator hoses and connections. If they feel soft or spongy, they likely need to be replaced before burst. Do not check the fluids when the car is hot and don’t try to open the radiator cap when hot as it could release hot steam and/or boiling fluid. The cooling system works harder in the summer and stay on top of the radiator coolant. The proper mix is a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. It is a common rule of thumb that the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles.
4. Tires: The biggest contributor to better gas mileage is to have properly inflated tires. In the hot weather, another detriment to underinflated tires is the greater chance of a flat tire. Under inflated tires are subject to excessive friction which causes more heat. Also, don’t forget to check the spare tire to make sure it’s properly inflated.
5. Air Conditioning: There may be nothing worse than hitting the road for a summer trip with a car full of people only to find out that the AC isn’t blowing cold air as it should. It makes for a very cranky group of passengers. Take the vehicle to a certified technician to make sure it’s functioning at full capacity. It’s also recommended to change the cabin air filter at the same time.
Cars and trucks are, after all, mechanical and even with all the precautions, things do fail. Be prepared with a simple emergency kit which would include water, jumper cables, flashlight, basic tools, flares and some non-perishable food items. Hit the road with confidence and fun. In Oregon and SW Washington there are some amazing sites to see along some great driving roads. The Oregon Department of Transportation has a list of some beautiful scenic byways on their website.
Photo Credit: Daniele Pesaresi via Compfight cc
Brad Boyer is owner of Carcierge, a Car Concierge company providing expert assistance on anything car-related. He also co-hosts Test Miles on 101.1 FM KXL on Sundays, and is a founding member of the Northwest Auto Press Association.
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