Warm summer weather means you’ll probably be planning more road trips. Whether you’re heading to the shore or driving to your vacation destination, driving in the summer sure beats driving in the winter. Or does it? Any extreme temperature or weather condition will wreak havoc on your car’s engine. Here are three of the most common summer car problems drivers face during the summer months and what you can do to avoid them.
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- An overheating engine: Your car’s cooling system – radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan and hoses – is designed to remove heat from the engine to prevent it from overheating. In fact, the normal operating temperature for most car engines is between 195 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit. Add to that the temperature on an extremely hot day, and you have the potential for problems if your car’s cooling system has not been maintained properly. To protect against overheating, make sure you change your engine oil and coolant on a regular basis. You should also inspect hoses and belts periodically and have them replaced at the first sign of excessive wear and tear. It’s also a good idea to keep watch on the temperature gauge to make sure it is running at “normal.” If you notice the water temperature gauge creeping up closer to the “hot” mark, have it checked out at our shop in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, right away. Driving with an engine that has overheated can cause serious damage.
- A dead battery: Hot summer temperatures can have a negative impact on your car’s battery, just like cold winter temperatures. If your car battery is approaching 4 years old, have it tested. The technicians at Country Road Automotive will let you know if your battery needs to be replaced so you don’t fall prey to one of these three common summer car problems.
- Tire failure: It’s important to regularly check the air pressure, tread depth and condition of your vehicle’s tires. Over- or under-inflated tires not only wear out more quickly and use more gas, they also pose a safety hazard. The chance of a blow-out from over-inflated tires is much greater in the summertime. If you find you have to add air frequently or it looks like your tires need to be replaced, give us a call. We can help you select the right tires for your vehicle and budget.
Remember, proper and regular maintenance can help you avoid these three common summer car problems. Click here to contact Country Road Automotive, in Lincoln Park, NJ, and schedule your summer car service now.