Summer Car Care: How to Protect Your Vehicle in Hot Weather

Keep Your Engine Cool

Your car’s engine works hard, especially in the summer. When it gets too hot, parts can wear out faster or even fail. One of the most important things you can do is monitor your coolant level. Coolant helps prevent your engine from overheating.

Before embarking on long trips, pop the hood and ensure the coolant is full and the fluid appears clean. If you notice any leaks or see the temperature gauge rising while driving, don’t wait. That’s a sign to stop and get help from a trusted auto repair shop right away. It's much cheaper to fix a small leak than to replace a whole engine later.

Check Your Tires Often

Hot pavement can be hard on tires. High temperatures cause the air inside your tires to expand, which can lead to blowouts if you’re not careful. To avoid problems, check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always before embarking on a road trip. Ensure they’re filled to the pressure listed in your car’s owner’s manual or the sticker on the driver's door.

Also, take a look at your tread. If the grooves are worn down, it’s time for new tires. Bald tires are particularly hazardous in hot weather because they provide poor grip on the road, especially during summer rainstorms.

Take Care of Your Battery

Heat can drain your battery faster than cold weather. Battery problems are one of the top reasons people visit an auto repair center in the summer. If your battery is more than three years old, consider getting it tested. Most auto parts stores and auto repair shops will check it for free.

Look for signs of trouble, such as a slow engine start, dim lights, or a dashboard warning light. Corrosion around the battery terminals is another red flag. If you spot white or green gunk, clean it off with a battery cleaning brush or let a pro handle it for you.

Protect Your Car’s Interior

The inside of your car gets incredibly hot in the summer sun. This can cause your seats, dashboard, and other surfaces to crack or fade. Use a sunshade when parking outside to block the sunlight. You can also crack your windows slightly to let heat escape.

If your car has leather seats, wipe them down with conditioner regularly to keep them from drying out. Seat covers and steering wheel wraps can also help protect your interior and keep surfaces cooler to the touch.

Test the Air Conditioning

Nobody wants to drive around in a hot car during the summer. If your A/C isn’t blowing cold air, it could be low on refrigerant or leak. Strange smells or weak airflow are also signs that something’s wrong.

Have your air conditioning system checked before the hottest days hit. Catching A/C issues early can save you money and a sweaty ride to your destination. Many drivers turn to Wright's Car Care for a quick A/C check and recharge before road trips.

Watch Out for Overheating

Even with good maintenance, cars can overheat in summer traffic. If your temperature warning light comes on or steam starts rising from the hood, turn off the engine immediately. Driving while overheated can cause serious damage.

If this happens, pull over safely and wait for your engine to cool down before attempting to check anything. Do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot; it can cause serious burns. Contact an auto repair shop for assistance if you’re unsure about what to do next. It’s better to be safe than risk major engine trouble.

Keep Up with Oil Changes

Motor oil keeps your engine parts moving smoothly and helps prevent overheating. In hot weather, your engine may work harder, making clean oil even more crucial. Check your oil level regularly and follow the schedule in your owner’s manual for oil changes.

If you notice the oil looks dirty or your engine feels sluggish, don’t put off maintenance. Keeping up with oil changes is one of the simplest ways to avoid future repairs. Wright's Car Care often helps customers catch small problems before they become bigger ones by staying on top of basic oil checks.

Don’t Forget Windshield Wipers and Fluid

Summer often brings pop-up storms. Old or worn wiper blades won’t clear your windshield well during sudden rain. Check your wipers for cracks or wear, and replace them if needed.

Also, top off your windshield washer fluid so you can keep your view clear if dirt or bugs build up while driving. It’s a small thing, but it makes a significant difference in terms of safety.

A Final Tip from the Pros

Taking care of your car during the summer doesn’t have to be hard or expensive. Small actions, such as checking fluids, cleaning the battery, and inspecting the tires, can prevent major problems later. If you’re unsure about anything, ask the team at Wright's Car Care to give your vehicle a quick summer checkup. Their team helps drivers stay safe and cool throughout the entire season.

Need Help? Schedule a Checkup Today

If it’s been a while since your last service, now’s the perfect time to get your vehicle inspected. A quick visit to an auto repair professional can give you peace of mind before you hit the road. Whether you need a tire check, A/C service, or just a tune-up, a skilled auto repair shop can help you catch issues early and keep your car in great shape. Don’t wait until you’re stranded in the heat. Give your vehicle the care it deserves today!