No one wants to get stranded on the side of the road because their car broke down. This is especially true when things start to warm up in summer. Being stranded during the heat of summer can be truly miserable. That is why it is important to take care of your vehicle and make sure that it is in prime condition.
Here are some things that you should check on your vehicle to ensure it gets you where you need to go.
- CHECK COOLANT LEVELS IN YOUR RADIATOR
Your radiator is what keeps your engine from overheating while it is running. However, it cannot do this if there is not enough coolant in it. Be sure you have enough coolant in the system, and that there are no leaks or other types of damage to the cooling system. - EXAMINE YOUR TIRES
Your tires face a lot of wear and tear on a daily basis. This can get worse in the summer as roads heat up. Make sure your vehicles tires are still in good condition or look into getting them replaced. Also, be sure to check their air pressure. Every vehicle is designed to have tires with a certain size and air pressure. If your tires are over or under inflated, it can affect your gas mileage. - CHECK THE OIL
Your vehicle has oil in both the engine and transmission. This oil helps them keep cool and run smoothly. If there is no oil, then metal scraps against metal and can cause costly damage. Frequently checking the oil levels in both can help keep your vehicle running for a long time. - EXAMINE YOUR WINDSHIELD WIPERS
The summer sun can be rough on your vehicles rubber wiper blades. You may not need them much in the summer, but every once in a while, a storm rolls through. Getting caught in the rain with bad wiper blades can be a real hassle and can even be dangerous if you cannot see. Be sure that your blades have not dried out or separated from their frame. - CHECK YOUR AC
Driving without air conditioning can be truly miserable in summer. If your AC does not blow cold air, be sure to take it to your local mechanic. You probably need more refrigerant/freon in the system, which most mechanics can help you with.
If you do all of this, your vehicle should be able to get you where you need to go this summer. Just doing these quick little things now can prevent you from getting stranded on the side of the road in triple degree heat. Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you this summer.