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As summer begins to wrap up and back-to-school season arrives, families are preparing for those last few road trips, weekend getaways and family vacations.
The increased mileage and scorching August heat can be taxing not just on people, but on vehicles too. This time of year is critical for car maintenance, especially when it comes to its fluids.
Engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant all work overtime during hot weather and extended use. These fluids can break down faster, becoming less effective at lubricating, cooling, and protecting your vehicle's vital systems.
A check-up can reveal if any fluids need topping off or changing. Be sure to have your trusted mechanic check your car’s fluids that may be worn down or burnt off.
Fluids you should have checked include:
- Engine oil
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
- Battery electrolyte levels (in serviceable batteries)
As you prepare the kids for the new school year, prepare your vehicle for the end of summer outings.
Here are some common end-of-summer maintenance tips to address for your family’s safety:
- Get your brakes checked. The return of students to classrooms brings a familiar challenge: bustling crosswalks. To avoid any accidents, a well-maintained brake system is important. Ensuring your vehicle's brakes are in top condition can be the difference between a close call and a potential accident.
- Tire check. One sure way to wear down your tires includes having too little pressure or, as can happen in summer, too much pressure. Always have the tire pressure checked when taking your car in for scheduled maintenance.
- Alignment. When getting your tires checked, be sure to have your mechanic check the alignment as well. The more you’re on the road, the more likely you are to encounter potholes or obstructions in the road, causing your alignment to get off course. Problems with your vehicle alignment can cause steering issues and tire damage.
- Wiper blades. Hot summer sun hardens and cracks wiper blades. Replace them to keep your windshield streak-free for your remaining summer outings and back-to-school excursions.
- Cabin air filter. Dust and pollen can accumulate on those dusty summer backroads. Keep your cabin clean and reduce allergens by replacing cabin air filters regularly. It’s an affordable way to improve cabin health for all occupants.
- Engine air filter. Contaminants from road trips are collected in your vehicle’s air intake system. Improve engine performance by replacing this important and affordable item.
- Leaks and drips. Have a certified technician examine the exhaust system for leaks in common areas that could lead to serious problems: ball joints, brake fluid lines, engine gaskets and radiator fluid. Look for drip spots on the ground where you park your vehicle overnight.
- Battery charge test. Before you head out for an end of summer adventures, have your vehicle’s battery inspected. Summer’s heat can lead to several different battery issues such as corrosion and accelerated sulfation, which leads to battery failure.
- Climate control system. Do the heater and defroster work properly? Yes, it may still be hot outside but the end of summer is a great time to check your vehicle’s heating system before cooler temperatures arrive.
- Engine belts. Similar to other rubber-based components, belts wear quickly and may stretch in hot weather. For example, serpentine belts stretch and crack over time. Get all engine belts checked for signs of wear and tear.
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