Keeping your Cool: Summer Car Care Tips

Summer is just around the corner!

The warmer weather brings about fun in the sun - unfortunately this is not the case for your car. The summer Down Under can get a little too hot and your car requires summer car care to ensure it is working in top condition.

Don’t worry, you can still enjoy the summer fun while driving in your car. Just be sure to follow these simple summer car care tips - wink wink.
 

1. Keep your battery in check.

The Australian heat can cause corrosion on your car battery terminals - which may result in your car battery being compromised. You don’t want this to happen, especially if you're out and about on a road trip. 

To prevent this from happening, check your battery before making any big trips. When performing a battery check, keep the following in mind:

• To avoid vibration, ensure that it is properly installed
• Battery fluid levels should be sufficient 
• Detach the cables and clean the terminals thoroughly
• Check for any issues or damage and replace if needed

2. Check your air-conditioning

I think we can all agree that having air conditioning in our cars during the summertime is super important. 

Given the importance of a car’s air conditioning, it’s equally important to ensure that it’s working properly when you need it the most. Large amounts of dust and debris can build up in your air conditioner filter, affecting the temperature that it emits. Keep in mind that your air conditioner has to work twice as hard during the summer, putting additional strain on the engine - meaning that you use more petrol.
 

3. Check your coolant level.

Going on a long road trip? Make sure to monitor the coolant’s level. This is especially important as summer approaches as you want to avoid your car overheating. Make sure that your coolant level is at an appropriate level to keep you and your car cool on a long summer drive.

4. Check engine fluids.

Your car engine is always subjected to the wrath of the summer heat, which is why this is one of the most important parts of your summer car care routine. The fluid levels inside your car’s engine assist and control the conditions of your car in order to function properly. Some fluids help control the temperature of your vehicle, while others lubricate moving parts and minimize friction and component wear all at the same time.

Maintain the correct level of radiator fluid, transmission oil, and engine oil to ensure that your engine is functioning optimally during the summer months. 

5. Examine the hoses and belts carefully.

Belts and hoses, just like other car components, can be damaged by high temperatures. The inner tube, reinforcement, and cover of the hoses are especially vulnerable to extreme heat. 

Check the belts and hoses on a regular basis for wear indicators such as cracks, holes, or brittleness. Check that all idler pulleys are in good working condition and have no worn bearings. Check to see if your belt tensioner is working and providing the proper amount of tension.

6. Check your tyres and brakes

Before heading out onto the open road this summer, check on your tyres. Summer heat can have a significant impact on your tyre pressure. The higher the temperature, the more pressure your tyres are under, potentially leading to a flat tyre. Yikes. If it becomes too hot out make sure you reduce your tyre pressure - while keeping the recommended tyre pressure in mind.
 

The brakes are another component of your vehicle that requires some summer TLC. Have you noticed any strange sounds coming from your brakes, or maybe noticed a difference in the way your car slows down? If this occurs, look into getting them serviced or replaced immediately.
 

Ready to conquer the Australian summer? Before revving up your engine, make sure you check on all the above summer car care tips to get the most out of summer driving. 

If you’re looking for a high-quality car for your perfect summer road trip, visit our website at www.motormatcher.com.au.