Summer car trouble? Local expert shares how to keep your vehicle safe in extreme heat
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- As temperatures continue to climb, extreme heat can quickly damage your vehicle. Without proper preventive maintenance, components like your tires, engine and air conditioning system can all suffer.
Hot weather affects your car’s ability to operate efficiently. Fluids evaporate faster, circulation may be reduced and your vehicle's systems have to work harder to combat the heat.
Local mechanic Craig Collings, co-owner of Kruse’s Auto Center, emphasized the importance of taking precautionary steps to prepare vehicles for the summer season.
Tire pressure changes with temperature, and during the summer, that fluctuation can become dangerous.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends checking your tire pressure at least once a month, especially when temperatures rise or fall significantly.
Improperly inflated tires can lead to uneven wear or even blowouts—an especially serious risk during highway travel in hot weather.
Your vehicle’s cooling system works overtime in the summer. The coolant plays a critical role in protecting the radiator and keeping the engine from overheating.
“The most crucial thing is to make sure the vehicle has an appropriate amount of coolant in it,” said Collings.
Low coolant can lead to serious engine damage if left unchecked. In addition to topping off coolant, drivers should inspect hoses and belts for cracks or leaks and replace them if necessary.
As Missouri’s heat and humidity peak, it’s also important to ensure your air conditioner is functioning properly. An A/C unit under strain in extreme heat may start blowing warm air, or fail altogether, making summer drives uncomfortable or even unsafe.
If your air conditioner isn’t performing well, have it inspected by a certified technician. Routine maintenance can prevent larger and more expensive repairs later in the season.
Summer heat can be just as hard on your car as winter cold. Taking time to check your battery, tires, fluid levels and cooling system now can save you from unexpected and costly repairs down the road.
