As temperatures rise, so do mechanical problems and breakdowns. Therefore, it’s no surprise to hear that the summer season often brings a lot of car troubles. If you want to learn how you can protect your car from Summer weather, keep reading, as some of the most common of car problems faced by drivers during this season include, but are not limited to:
Tire Blowouts and Other Damage
If your tires are unevenly worn or low on air pressure, they are at a higher risk for damage, flats and even blowouts. This is especially common during the Summer months, where intense temperature fluctuations affect the air pressure in your tires, making them more vulnerable to damage or worse.
Weakened or Dead Battery
The sweltering heat of Summer can actually damage your car’s battery and drain its power, especially when it’s already working extremely hard to keep you cool. Be on the lookout for any evidence of a weak (or dead) battery, and be sure to have it checked out by our professionals.
Broken Air Conditioning
Being stuck in traffic with no AC during a blazing hot Summer is one of the worst situations to find yourself in. Your car’s Summer AC issues are likely due to a lack of refrigerant, and can be remedied by a simple recharge using our new R1234YF machine, but we also offer full AC repair services, if need be.
Engine Overheating
Although your engine already runs hot, the additional Summer heat can sometimes make it run TOO hot. To prevent your engine from overheating, monitor its temperature gauge and make sure it has enough coolant. If your engine overheats, it could lead to damage that requires engine repairs, full rebuilds, or even replacement.
Worn-out Wiper Blades
You might not think of worn or damaged wiper blades as a major problem, but the longer you continue to use them, the less effective they will be. Trust us: you don’t want to be caught in a Summer thunderstorm with ineffective wipers!
Low or Leaking Fluid Levels
Believe it or not, the Summer sun can sometimes be so hot that your car’s fluids evaporate. This includes brake fluid, power steering fluid, engine coolant, and even fuel. If you suspect a leak, it’s imperative that you locate the affected hose or tank, as the damage will continue to worsen, eventually deteriorating to the point where the part(s) need to be completely replaced.
Preventing Car Problems in Summer
Thankfully, you can easily prevent most of the above Summer car issues with regular maintenance (including timely oil changes) and by simply being observant:
Tires that are low on air and unevenly worn are likely to burst. Old coolant won’t stop your engine from overheating. Weak or old batteries will fail sooner (rather than later) and need to be replaced. Check your fluid levels regularly, monitor your air pressure, examine your tires for uneven wear, be sure your air filter is clean, etc.
Taking these small, preventative measures will not only keep your vehicle healthy, they’ll keep YOU healthy, too, as being stranded in the middle of nowhere on a scorching hot day with no food, no water, and no way of cooling off can put your or your loved ones at risk.
Find Auto Repair Services Near You
If the brutal Summer heat is keeping your car out of commission, contact Bradley’s Auto Service in Red Bank, NJ today! Our ASE-certified mechanics have built a reputation for providing honest, professional auto services, including suspension repair and custom exhaust systems. We work with all makes and models.
Whether it’s the dog days of Summer or the dead cold of Winter, Bradley’s Auto Service in Red Bank, NJ, has you covered year-round!
