We talk about getting your car ready for winter but what about summer? Well summer is fast approaching so it’s time to “Summerize” your car!

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Are you planning a summer vacation? Maybe you just enjoy driving on warm summer evenings, well either way most of us take to the roads in the summer and we need to make sure that our cars are ready for summer!

A Complete vehicle check over is something that should be done at least twice a year! This should include an air conditioning check over: including blower fan, cooling system, belts and hoses. You should also get your fluid levels and condition checked. Your brake system, suspension, lights, charging system, and tires should also be checked.

If your summer weather pattern includes thunderstorms and rain, you will want to inspect your brakes because wet brakes can be less responsive. What you see when you look behind the tire and wheel depends on whether your car has disc or drum brakes. You might need some brake education; good resources are the owner’s manual or your mechanic. Talk to the mechanic about how much braking you have left.

Also ask about the state of your brake pads. Hot weather can increase the temperature of your brake system, causing your pads to wear more quickly. You’ll want to keep tabs on how worn yours are.

Your cooling system strives for a constant 200 degrees Fahrenheit to protect your engine against corrosion, provide more efficient fuel combustion, and maintain proper oil viscosity. However, in hot weather, your coolant could reach as high as 250 degrees, and your car could overheat. This is why your cooling system needs extra attention in the summer. But before you get under the hood, make sure your engine is cool―never remove a radiator cap when the engine is hot, or even warm.

To prepare your cooling system for summer, you’ll want to check the radiator and hoses for leaks or cracks. Be sure all the connections are snug. The reservoir level should be half full and if it is low, add coolant or antifreeze.

Despite all your efforts to inspect the cooling system and keep your coolant levels up, your engine could still overheat. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge on your dashboard. If you see the engine getting too hot, you can take immediate action by turning on the heat―this pulls hot air off the engine block. Allow your engine time to cool down, because overheating can cause permanent damage to the engine.

Don’t get caught out in the hot sun with no A/C get your car checked, and as always DRIVE SAFE!!!