Unfortunately, high temperatures can put a tremendous amount of stress on your vehicle that can easily interfere with your summer plans. While it can be frustrating to deal with car problems in the middle of summer, it’s easy to avoid many unexpected issues that tend to occur in warmer weather with a little knowledge and preparation. Read on to learn about 5 of the most common car problems during the summer and what you can do to fix them.
Weak or Broken Air Conditioning
A vehicle’s AC may start blowing with less force or stop working altogether for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, the problem is a simple electrical short or damaged fuse, but low refrigerant levels or a clogged air filter can also be to blame. Check your air filter and refrigerant levels to see if that’s the problem. If it appears to be an issue with the condenser or electrical components, it’s likely best to have a professional technician address the problem.
Overheating Engine
Most of the time, engines overheat in the summer when coolant levels drop too low. Luckily, adding coolant to an engine is a fairly simple process. Just be sure to follow your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions on the type of coolant to use.
Malfunctioning or Dead Battery
Severe heat can wreak havoc on car batteries by causing internal fluids to evaporate and accelerating corrosion. To avoid these problems, consider investing in a car cover or simply park your car in a shaded area to reduce exposure to the sun. In addition, it’s a good idea to inspect the battery periodically over the summer, cleaning away any sulfate crystals built up on the terminals that could interfere with its operation.
Flat Tires
When temperatures get hot enough, the air in tires will begin to expand slightly which can increase the tire’s PSI beyond its recommended limits. To avoid flat tires or blowouts on the road this summer, remember to check your tire pressure every so often to ensure they’re not overinflated. If your tires are especially old or have little to no tire tread on them, it’s probably a good idea to replace them altogether.
Fluid Leaks
Prolonged exposure to summer heat can put a lot of stress on an engine, and this stress can contribute to various fluid leaks. Check the levels of brake fluid, power steering, and transmission fluid throughout the summer months to keep your engine working properly. If you discover any leaks, you’ll want to have a professional look into the problem.
Car Problems? Stop by Valley Automall
If you experience car problems this summer, our team at Valley Automall has the knowledge and resources to get you back on the road fast. Ask about our service specials for discounts on essential repairs. Plus, shop an inventory of over 7,000 new & used vehicles on our website or in-person at 20 dealerships. We also provide many different parts specials so you can put more money back in your pocket when components break down. Visit us at Valley Automall today for expert assistance.