How to Prepare Your Car for Summer Heat
Texas summers are no joke, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F. Extreme heat can wreak havoc on your vehicle if you're not prepared. Here's your complete guide to summer car care.
The Impact of Summer Heat
High temperatures affect multiple vehicle systems:
Engine cooling system works overtimeBattery can fail due to heatTires are more prone to blowoutsAC system faces maximum loadFluids evaporate fasterPaint and interior suffer UV damageEssential Summer Car Maintenance
1. Check Your Cooling System
Your cooling system is your first line of defense against heat:
What to Do:
Check coolant level (when engine is cool)Inspect hoses for cracks or leaksTest coolant mixture (should be 50/50 with water)Check radiator cap conditionFlush coolant if it's been more than 2 yearsWarning Signs:
Temperature gauge reading highSteam from under hoodSweet smell (coolant leak)2. Test Your Battery
Heat kills batteries faster than cold:
Battery Care:
Have battery tested (free at most auto shops)Clean corrosion from terminalsCheck electrolyte level if accessibleConsider replacement if battery is 3+ years oldEnsure battery is securely mountedDid You Know? Most batteries fail in summer, not winter, due to heat accelerating chemical reactions.
3. Inspect Your Tires
Hot pavement + high speeds = tire stress:
Tire Maintenance:
Check tire pressure weekly (heat increases pressure)Inspect tread depth (penny test)Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wearRotate tires every 5,000-7,000 milesReplace tires if tread is below 4/32"Pressure Tip: Check when tires are cold (morning) for accurate readings.
4. Service Your AC System
A functioning AC isn't just comfort - it's safety:
AC Maintenance:
Test AC before heat hitsReplace cabin air filterCheck for unusual noises or smellsVerify all vents blow cold airSchedule professional AC service if neededPro Tip: Run AC for 10 minutes weekly, even in winter, to keep seals lubricated.
5. Check All Fluids
Fluids are your engine's lifeblood:
Critical Fluids:
Engine oil (may need more frequent changes in heat)Transmission fluidBrake fluidPower steering fluidWindshield washer fluid (use summer formula)6. Inspect Belts and Hoses
Heat deteriorates rubber quickly:
What to Check:
Look for cracks, fraying, or glazing on beltsFeel hoses for soft spots or bulgesCheck clamp tightnessReplace any questionable componentsReplacement Schedule: Most belts and hoses last 4-5 years.
7. Wiper Blade Replacement
Summer storms require good visibility:
Wiper Care:
Replace if streaking or skippingUse quality blades designed for heatCheck washer fluid level frequentlyTest wipers before you need themProtecting Your Car's Exterior and Interior
Paint Protection
Wash regularly to remove contaminantsWax every 3 months for UV protectionPark in shade when possibleUse car cover for extended parkingInterior Care
Use sunshade in windshieldApply UV protectant to dashboardClean and condition leather seatsPark in garage when possibleCrack windows slightly for ventilation (if secure)Emergency Preparedness
Keep these items in your car:
Extra water (for you and the car)CoolantMotor oilJumper cables or jump starterBasic tool kitPhone chargerFirst aid kitFlashlightSigns Your Car is Overheating
Watch for:
Temperature gauge in red zoneSteam from hoodUnusual smellsLoss of powerWarning lightsIf Overheating:
1. Turn off AC
2. Turn on heater full blast
3. Pull over safely
4. Turn off engine
5. Wait 30+ minutes before opening hood
6. Call for help if needed
When to Schedule Professional Service
Visit Snappee Auto Care if you notice:
Temperature gauge reading higher than normalAC blowing warm airUnusual noises or smellsWarning lightsFluid leaksAny concerns about summer readinessOur Summer Vehicle Inspection
Get peace of mind with our comprehensive summer inspection:
✓ Cooling system pressure test✓ Battery load test✓ AC performance check✓ Tire inspection and pressure adjustment✓ Fluid level verification✓ Belt and hose inspection✓ Multi-point safety checkSpecial Summer Offer: Mention this article for 10% off summer maintenance services!
Beat the Heat - Act Now
Don't wait for a breakdown on the hottest day of summer. Schedule your summer vehicle inspection today!
Call (214) 956-8040 or book online at snappeeautocare.com
Remember: A little prevention now can save you from expensive repairs and dangerous situations later. Stay cool out there!
