*Updated June 2018
The dog days of summer don’t just leave you overheated and exhausted, they take a toll on your vehicle.
Did you know?
- Summer heat drains your battery faster than the cold of winter. Excessive heat and overcharging are the two primary causes of premature battery failure
- Exposure to prolonged sunshine can fade your car’s paint
- Extremely hot days tax the air conditioning and cooling system of your vehicle
- Lubricating oil can break down under extreme heat conditions
The Car Care Council recommends these routine maintenance practices to keep your vehicle operating under hot summer conditions:
- Periodically check and test batteries for proper charging
- Make sure your cooling system has the proper anti-freeze/coolant and all belts, hoses and the water pump are properly working (never open a hot radiator cap; the liquid inside is a scalding 200 degrees or hotter)
- Check the air conditioning system for leaks and proper coolant
- Make sure the viscosity of your motor oil will stand up to hot weather days (10W-30 or 10W-40)
If you are planning to hit the road for a long trip you should also:
- Check the tires for tread and proper inflation
- Make sure the spare tire is inflated and there is a jack and tire changing tools
- Test your windshield wipers and change them if they are streaking
Consumer Reports advises that you should also have a basic safety kit that consists of:
- Cell phone and spare battery
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Warning light or reflective triangles
- Tire gauge
- Jumper cables
- Foam sealant for flat tires
Things you should know how to do in case you have a roadside emergency:
- How to change a tire – https://fusion.net/video/993/life-hack-how-to-change-a-tire/
- Jump a dead battery – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EX_-v45UwLk
- What to do when your car overheats –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mo1xp_NTJzk
You also need the proper insurance to protect your vehicle and those riding with you. Call a California Casualty advisor today for a policy review and comparison, 1.800.800.9410 or visit www.calcas.com.
Sources for this article:
https://www.carcare.org/2014/06/four-symptoms-of-a-sick-cooling-system/
https://www.consumerreports.org/cro/2012/03/roadside-emergency-kit-what-to-carry-with-you/index.htm
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