Time to get that A/C cranking! Summer is here and all the dust, heat, and busy traffic that comes with it can have harmful effects on your vehicle. Understanding how to properly take care of your vehicle in the summer can prevent many issues further down the road. To get you started, here are four helpful tips on summer car care that will keep your vehicle in ideal condition over the summer months.
1. Look for Rust and Salt Build-Up
After your car has survived the long, wet, New England winter, it is important that you do a full check of your vehicle for any rust spots. Examine your wipers and check the rubber seals on the doors to make sure no water is getting in anywhere that can cause problems. Washing your car regularly in the summer will keep all the road salt collected in the winter from having a chance to corrode any parts of your vehicle.
2. Open the Hood
Even if you have no idea what to look for, spending 15 minutes checking under the hood of your car can prevent 70 percent of problems that lead to breakdowns, according to Deanna Sclar, author of Auto Repair for Dummies. Look for any loose connections, damaged wires, and don’t forget to check all your fluid levels. The main 5 fluids that need to be checked are:
- Oil
- Coolant
- Transmission
- Power Steering
- Brake
3. Air Conditioning Maintenance
The last thing you want is your A/C to malfunction in the heat of summer. Checking for any leaking Freon from the A/C system can help prevent any problems. Keeping your A/C at a lower level instead of blasting it all the time will also help fuel economy while putting less strain on the A/C system which may make it last even longer.
4. Maintain Tires
Tire pressure needs to be maintained especially in the summer because underinflated tires are more prone to blowouts with the hot roads and increased strain. It is also important to check the tread of your tires. This can be done by taking a penny and sticking it in the groove of the tire with Lincoln’s head facing inward. If you can see the top of Abe’s head, that is a good indicator that you need a new set.
Understanding Your Insurance
The biggest care you can have for your vehicle is proper insurance. Understanding the 6 types of coverages of an auto insurance policy can help you decide which auto insurance is best for you and your vehicle. By following the four tips for summer car care listed above, while updating and checking your insurance, you can be sure your vehicle will be protected from any damages.
We hope you learned more about summer car care and how to properly maintain your vehicle. At TJ Woods Insurance, we provide only the best insurance policies available and would love to hear how we may help you gain better coverage for your vehicle. Contact us today for a free consultation and to learn more about taking care of your car over the summer.
