Spring and summer are on their way – and most people are ready to hit the road. Some just want to get out for a Sunday drive. Some are itching to visit family and friends.
Others are preparing to drive hundreds of miles for a getaway.
No matter which category you fit into, there are a few steps you need to take first to make sure your vehicle is as ready for warm weather as you are.
Check Your Tires
Extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on tires.
If you live in a place where it gets very cold in the winter – and even if you don’t – checking your tires is imperative.
You need to make sure the pressure is where it’s supposed to be, according to the manual.
You should also be able to find the recommended air pressure on the sticker inside your door.
It’s also a really good idea to have your tires checked for tread depth and any holes. If any need to be replaced, consider Good Year tires to give you some reliability during your drives.
Rehydrate
Just like your body needs to stay hydrated, so does your vehicle. If they’re running dry, it can actually increase the chances of your engine overheating.
You do not want to be stuck on the side of the road in intense heat, so be sure to top off all of your fluids before you take a ride.
Keep It Cool
Another thing to check is your AC. Turn it on and make sure that it works properly. If not, it’s best to get it to a certified mechanic as soon as possible – before the heat becomes unbearable.
Sometimes, you just need more refrigerant. Other times, it could be a more serious issue. The earlier you find out, the quicker you can get to work fixing it.
Additionally, you want to make sure your engine stays as cool as possible to prevent overheating.
You can do this by adding special additives to your engine components and radiator.
Secure the Battery
Batteries can become loose over time, causing them to vibrate as you drive.
This can be a problem, as those vibrations can actually cause your battery to break down internally.
Pop the hood and make sure that it’s secure. If it seems to wobble or move around too much, take the time to get it properly mounted and secured now.
Get Your Oil Checked
When is the last time you had your oil changed? If you stay on a regular routine with this, you should be fine.
If it’s been a while, though, it’s time to get it changed now.
Oil changes do several things for your vehicle, including clearing out dirt and debris and providing the lubrication necessary to prevent overheating your engine.
As a bonus, most places that provide oil changes typically check your tires, check your battery, and top off any fluids you need.
Therefore, you can take care of a few steps on this list simply by taking your vehicle in for an oil change.
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the unexpected, such as flat tires due to nails.
However, by taking care of the five steps listed above, you greatly decrease the chances of having car trouble while you’re enjoying the warm – and hot – weather.