Summer is the worst time for a breakdown - extreme heat accelerates wear on almost every system in your car. Here's a quick 10-point checklist to get your vehicle ready before temperatures climb.
1. Recharge Your AC
If your AC isn't blowing as cold as it used to, recharge it now before the heat hits. A \ DIY kit takes 10 minutes. Shop R-134a recharge kits ?
2. Check Your Coolant Level
Low coolant = overheating. Check the reservoir when the engine is cold. If it's below the MIN line, top it up with the correct coolant type (check your owner's manual - don't mix green and orange).
3. Inspect Your Battery
Heat kills batteries faster than cold. If your battery is 3+ years old, have it load-tested. Look for corrosion on the terminals (white/blue buildup) - clean it with baking soda and water.
4. Check Tire Pressure
Tires lose ~1 PSI per 10�F temperature increase. Underinflated tires in summer heat are a blowout risk. Check pressure when tires are cold (before driving). Find the recommended PSI on the sticker inside your driver's door.
5. Inspect Wiper Blades
Summer thunderstorms demand good wipers. If yours streak or skip, replace them now. Shop wiper blades ?
6. Check Your Oil Level and Condition
Pull the dipstick and check both level and color. Black, gritty oil needs changing. If you're due within 2,000 miles, change it before the summer heat stresses your engine further.
7. Test Your Cabin Air Filter
A clogged cabin air filter reduces AC airflow significantly. If your AC seems weak even after a recharge, check this first. Most filters are accessible without tools - check behind the glove box.
8. Inspect Belts and Hoses
Summer heat cracks rubber. Check your serpentine belt for fraying or cracking, and squeeze your radiator hoses - they should be firm, not soft or spongy. A burst hose means instant overheating.
9. Check Brake Fluid
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, lowering its boiling point. In summer stop-and-go traffic, degraded brake fluid can cause brake fade. Most manufacturers recommend flushing every 2 years.
10. Clean Your Engine Bay
A clean engine runs cooler and makes it easier to spot leaks. Blow out debris with compressed air and wipe down surfaces. Summer dust and pollen can clog cooling fins on radiators and AC condensers.
Stock Up on Summer Maintenance Supplies
Parts Universe carries everything on this checklist - AC recharge kits, coolant, batteries, wiper blades, oil, filters and more. Fast shipping on all orders.
