Extreme Heat on Your Vehicle

Hidden dangers of heat on cars

• Battery Strain: Extreme heat hinders battery chemistry, reducing its ability to hold a charge and deliver power. Fluid evaporation accelerates, degrading internal components and promoting corrosion. Combined with driving vibrations, heat significantly shortens battery lifespan.
• Tire Trouble: Temperature fluctuations directly affect tire pressure, leading to uneven wear and a shorter tire life. Driving on underinflated tires, especially in high road temperatures, creates excessive heat and greatly increases the risk of a blowout.
• Engine Overheating & Fuel Issues: Intense heat can prevent your car from starting due to poor fuel circulation. An overly hot engine struggles to move fuel effectively. Proper coolant maintenance is key to keeping your engine at optimal operating temperature.
• Air Conditioning Woes: Your A/C system works harder in extreme heat. Ensure it’s functioning correctly and check your cabin air filter for optimal cooling and passenger comfort.
• Fluid Loss: Heat can cause essential fluids like oil, transmission fluid, and coolant to evaporate faster. Regular checks and topping off are vital to prevent reduced cooling and potential overheating.
• Interior Damage: Prolonged sun exposure can damage your car’s interior, affecting upholstery, the dashboard, and electronics. Use sunshades and park in the shade whenever possible.
• Hot Surfaces: When parked in the sun, surfaces like seat belts and steering wheels can become dangerously hot. Always check before buckling up or grabbing the wheel.

Summer car care checklist

• Fluid Levels: Regularly inspect and top off all fluid levels, including coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. Ensure you’re using the manufacturer-recommended type.
• Cooling System: Have your cooling system checked by a professional, including flushing the system and ensuring the thermostat is working properly. Replace old coolant as recommended.
• Battery Inspection: If your battery is over three years old, have it tested by a technician. Ensure terminals are clean and connections are tight to prevent corrosion and poor power flow.
• Tire Pressure: Check tire pressure frequently when tires are cold. Inflate to the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer (found on the door jamb or in the owner’s manual), not the maximum pressure on the tire sidewall. Also, inspect treads for wear.
• Belts and Hoses: High temperatures can accelerate the degradation of rubber components. Look for cracks, bulges, or signs of wear, and replace them if needed.
• Emergency Kit: Always keep a well-stocked emergency kit in your car. Include water, non-perishable food, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, and a first-aid kit.
• Never Leave Children or Pets: This is crucial. Car interiors heat up rapidly to dangerous levels, even on moderately warm days, posing a deadly threat. Always check your back seat before exiting your vehicle.
• Park Smart: Whenever possible, park in shaded areas to reduce direct sun exposure and keep your car cooler.

By taking these proactive steps, you can help ensure your vehicle stays safe and reliable throughout the summer, avoiding inconvenient and potentially costly breakdowns.