Summer is coming and that means it’s time for more seasonal car care. Everyone’s car maintenance routine looks a little bit different, but there are certain auto repair services to check in on this time of year. If you missed out on some key car maintenance services in the spring, it’s especially important to check them off your list before the heat of summer hits.
Work your way from front to back on your car and make sure all of these key parts seem ready to go. All of the following parts will improve your safety and reduce chances of major auto repairs throughout the summer months.
It’s important to get an oil change for your car twice a year, if not more. The frequency for your car will depend on a number of factors, from your car’s mileage to the environment in which you drive most often. At minimum, however, your oil should be changed every six months, since oil will degrade over time regardless of use. If you skipped the oil change in the spring, it’s a good idea to at least take a look at your oil level and consistency to make sure you’re not risking damage to the engine.
While your engine can overheat any time of the year, it’s especially important to keep an eye on your car’s cooling system in the summer when you may be taking long road trips in the hot sun. You can easily check your coolant level at home and top it off if necessary, though you want to be sure to use the correct formula. Also pay attention to your car’s temperature gauge. If you notice it creeping up more than usual, it’s a sure sign you should have your cooling system checked by a mechanic.
Get ready for summer rains and bugs. Your wiper blades will start leaving streaks on your windshield after a while and that can impair your ability to safely see during a rainstorm. It’s also a good idea to always make sure you have plenty of windshield wiper fluid. Plus, in the summer, you may want to choose a formula of wiper fluid that will help get grime and bugs off your windshield easier.
One of the most important aspects of summer car care is making sure your car’s AC won’t give out on you just when you need it most. Before it gets too hot, test out your Air Conditioning to make sure it’s working. When you turn it on, also pay attention to any strange sounds that may happen. If you hear anything that seems a bit off or the air coming out of your vents doesn’t feel as cool as it should, it’s best to schedule a car repair service to get it checked out by a mechanic.
Each season has its own hazards when it comes to your brakes. And regardless of the season, you want to make sure your brake pads and rotors aren’t over-worn. Making a habit of checking your wear level seasonally will ensure you catch a necessary brake repair before it causes bigger, more expensive problems. Regular brake services will ensure you’re safe on the road.
While you’re down there, make sure your tires aren’t over-worn and are properly filled with air. Use the penny test to make sure you still have enough tread on your tires: when putting a penny head-down into a tire tread, you should not be able to see Lincoln’s entire head. Your tire pressure also changes with the temperatures. You may have to add air in the winter as temperatures go down. It’s the opposite in summer and if your tires are over-filled, it can lead to blowouts on the highway. Check your car’s owner manual to see what a safe range is for your tires and adjust the air in your tires if necessary.
If it feels like there’s a lot to keep up with as each new season arrives, don’t worry! The mechanics at AAMCO Utah can easily carry out a tune up service and oil change to make sure you’re ready to go this summer. Schedule your appointment online and feel confident that you’re safe driving all summer.
Do you need brake service? Transmission repair? Engine tune-up service? Or regular car repair? We’ve got you! Call or visit your local AAMCO Utah Car repair center for assistance.
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