How to prepare your car for summer

There are five major things to check when preparing your car for summer. The season’s warm weather can be hard on your ride, placing stress on everything from its air conditioner to its battery. With Don’s Pro Technology’s diagnostic special running in the month of May, getting the important items checked is easier than ever and the experienced technicians can advise you on how to best prepare your car for summer. From checking your car’s tires to checking the air conditioning system, below is a list of the most important items to have inspected.

Check the air conditioning system

Your car’s air conditioning system takes a beating during the summer, working tirelessly to keep you and your passengers fresh and cool. Don’t wait until a sweltering day to learn that it’s not working properly. Give it a test run before summer descends to make sure it’s blowing cool air and performing as it should. This will allow you to advise your technician as to how the car is operating so any necessary repairs or maintenance can be performed before a heatwave hits.

Evaluate the battery

Hot weather can speed up battery corrosion and reduce its capacity, making it difficult or impossible for your car to start. Your technician can test the battery. If its charge is weak, you will be advised to invest in a new battery.

Take a look at the tires

You’re not still riding on winter tires, are you? If so, it’s time to replace them with summer tires. Doing so will optimize your car’s handling and traction during warmer months. While you’re at it, make sure your tires are properly inflated according to the automaker’s guidelines. You can find these specifications in your vehicle’s owner’s manual, and you can check each tire’s air pressure using a gauge purchased from an auto parts store or have your technician check the air pressure during the car’s inspection. Tires that are under- or over-inflated will compromise fuel economy, so carefully monitoring your car’s rubber may save you money on gas.

Keep an eye on engine temperature

As the weather gets warmer, keep an eye on the dash-mounted gauge that provides information about your car’s engine temperature. If the temperature is in the red or hotter than normal, this could indicate a problem with the car’s radiator. There may be a leak in one of the hoses. If so, you may notice a puddle of fluid underneath the car. Higher-than-normal engine temperatures could also mean the radiator is running low on coolant. It’s a good idea to have your car’s cooling system flushed and refilled every two years with fresh coolant. If you’re adding coolant, remember that this task should never be undertaken while the engine is hot, since you could burn yourself while removing the radiator cap.

Check the windshield wipers

You’ll need your windshield wipers to navigate summer rainstorms. If they’re damaged, they’ll leave streaks on the windshield that could impede visibility and create a safety hazard. It’s a good idea to change your wiper blades at least twice a year with the advent of summer and winter. At the very least, ask your technician to inspect the blades for signs of wear before summer weather kicks in.

It feels good to take a proactive stance with vehicle maintenance. The tips shared above will help you make sure your car is in fighting shape for the summer.

For more information on getting your vehicle ready for the summer and to reserve an appointment, chat with one of the knowledgeable service advisors or technicians at Don’s Pro Technology Automotive Repair at 230 E. Tehachapi Blvd. or call the shop at (661) 822-1600.