Get Your Car Ready for Spring and Summer!

Warm temperatures, blue skies and sunny days spent in the pool will be here before you know it! Soon you’ll be heading out on a summer road trip or enjoying a fun beach vacation. While you might be ready for an escape from winter, do you know if your car is prepared? The high summer temperatures can be tough on a vehicle. The effects of the harsh season can have a variety of negative impacts, including increased tire damage, expedited wear on hoses and a higher likelihood of mechanical failure occurring. Taking a few simple steps to prepare your car before heading out on the open road will decrease the odds of a breakdown putting a stop to your fun. Here are six steps to prepare your car for summer:

• Switch out winter snow tires: Snow tires are essential during the winter, but they’re pretty pointless during the summer. Continuing to drive with your cold-season tires can cause them to wear out quicker. Replace your winter tires with all-season tires in the late spring. Plan to check the air pressure monthly to ensure they are properly inflated. This gets you the appropriate amount of contact with the road and will decrease the likelihood of a blowout.
• Check the AC system: The air conditioner plays a pretty important role during the summer. At the start of the season, run the AC for a few minutes to see if it can still blow cold air. Take it to an auto mechanic in Gary, IN if it doesn’t seem to be working or makes strange noises.
• Check the brakes: Winter can be very rough on your brakes. The brake pads experience thermal cycling due to the massive temperature changes and exposure to cold water. Take this time to check the brakes for any cracking or wear. Any signs of crumbling or discoloration mean it’s time for a replacement.
• Refill coolant: Overheating is one of the most common causes of summer breakdowns. The cooling system needs to be completely flushed and refilled at least once every two years. The level, condition and concentration of coolant should be checked when the winter tires are switched out.
• Windshield wipers: Don’t find yourself stranded in summer rains because the windshield wipers won’t work. Replace worn blades with new ones specifically formulated for summer conditions, and refill the windshield washer fluid.
• Annual maintenance: Take your car to an auto mechanic in Gary, IN for an annual inspection sometime in March or April. This simple step will ensure your car is ready for anything this spring and summer. The mechanic will perform a thorough inspection to identify any potential issues before making any necessary repairs. They will then follow a comprehensive maintenance checklist to ensure the car will work its best all summer long.

Ready to get started? Call Miller Brakes and Mufflers, Inc. today to schedule your summer maintenance appointment with an auto mechanic in Gary, IN. We look forward to serving you!

Categorised in: Auto Mechanic

This post was written by Writer