Summer is in full swing, so it’s crucial to safeguard your vehicle from the sweltering heat and ensure it is road trip ready. High temperatures can wreak havoc on your car’s performance and lead to potential breakdowns. The following essential tips will keep the summer heat from destroying your car and maximize your vehicle’s efficiency so you can enjoy worry-free summer road trips.
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Regularly Check and Maintain Coolant Levels:
Statistics show that engine overheating is one of the leading causes of car breakdowns during the summer months. Ensure your car’s coolant levels are within the manufacturer’s recommended range and top them up as needed. A study by the American Automobile Association (AAA) revealed that overheating-related issues accounted for 11% of their summer road assistance calls.
Protect Your Car’s Exterior with Wax or Ceramic Coating:
The scorching sun and harmful UV rays can damage your car’s paintwork, leading to fading and deterioration. Applying a high-quality wax or ceramic coating can provide an effective shield against the summer heat. According to a study conducted by The Weather Channel, prolonged sun exposure can increase the surface temperature of a car’s exterior by up to 20 degrees Fahrenheit, accelerating paint damage.
Maintain Proper Tire Pressure for summer road trips:
Extreme heat can cause tire pressure to rise, increasing the risk of tire blowouts. A survey by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that underinflated tires are a contributing factor in over 660 fatalities and 33,000 injuries annually. Regularly check your tire pressure, ensuring it matches the recommended levels stated in your vehicle’s manual, especially before embarking on long road trips.
Park in Shaded Areas or Use Sunshades:
Parking your car under the blazing sun for prolonged periods can have adverse effects on its interior, causing materials to fade and crack. Whenever possible, park in shaded areas or utilize sunshades to shield the vehicle’s interior from direct sunlight. According to a study conducted by the International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer, the temperature inside a parked car can rise by an average of 40 degrees Fahrenheit within an hour.
Carry Emergency Supplies:
Preparing for a summer road trip also means being ready for unforeseen circumstances. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, including essentials like water, non-perishable food, a first aid kit, a flashlight, and jumper cables. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) highlights that nearly 14% of all summer travel-related incidents require emergency assistance due to vehicle breakdowns or accidents.
Summer is the perfect time to embark on memorable road trips, but protecting your car from the intense heat is vital for a smooth and trouble-free journey. By following the five tips outlined in this article – maintaining coolant levels, protecting your car’s exterior, checking tire pressure, parking smartly, and carrying emergency supplies – you can safeguard your vehicle and enhance your summer adventures. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a worry-free and enjoyable road trip experience during the hot summer months. Stay safe and have a fantastic journey!
Author: Whitney Yates-Woods is Dealer Principal of family-owned Yates Buick GMC in Goodyear. Yates Buick GMC has been serving the Phoenix metropolitan area for more than 37 years. To see current inventory or to schedule a maintenance appointment, visit https://www.yatesbuick.com.
