With summer upon us, it’s time to prep your car for the demands of the longer, hotter days ahead.
Whether you live in a hot and arid environment or in humid conditions, the warm summer months can be tough on your vehicle. A few simple DIY maintenance tasks can keep everything running smoothly all season long whether you're navigating the daily commute or hitting the highway in search of adventure.
Here’s a helpful batch of tips from our Tinker experts to get your ride ready for summer.
- Check and Replace Key Fluids
Before the weather gets steamy, it’s critical to check the condition of all your vehicle’s essential fluids.
- Engine Oil: If it's dirty or more than a year old, it’s time to change your oil and your oil filter. In hot climates, consider using a higher-viscosity oil for better performance.
- Engine Coolant: Summer weather can cause coolant levels to drop and old coolant to lose its effectiveness. Replace yours if it looks rusty or is more than five years old.
- Transmission Fluid: Ensure it’s fresh (pink and sweet-smelling) and at the correct level; dark fluid with a burnt smell should be replaced.
- Brake Fluid: Change yours every two years to keep it fresh and don’t forget to bleed the system every time you work on your brakes. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, compromising its stopping power, especially in the heat.
DIY Tip: Always consult your owner's manual to ensure you're using the correct fluid types for your vehicle.
- Crank Up the A/C
Now’s the time to make sure your air conditioning (A/C) system is up to snuff. Begin by turning on the AC and dialing it to the coldest setting. If the air is not blowing as cold as it should be, you may have a refrigerant leak.
DIY Tip: To locate the leak, use an A/C leak detection kit, which injects UV dye into the system. Then run the air conditioning for a short period and use a UV light to check for evidence of dye leaking from common trouble spots, such as the condenser, the compressor, the evaporator coils and any hoses and connections. Replace leaky components before recharging the system.
Also check the condition of your cabin air filter, which is typically found behind the glove compartment or under the dashboard. Replace it if it’s dirty.
- Test the Battery
Heat accelerates the chemical reaction inside your car's battery. This can cause its internal fluid to evaporate, leading to decreased performance or even a dead battery. To avoid getting stranded on a hot summer day, it’s wise to perform a routine inspection.
DIY Tip: Start by checking the battery for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or leaks. Examine the terminals for corrosion, which can appear as a white, ashy substance. If you find any, clean it off with a wire brush and, in stubborn cases, a mixture of baking soda and water. Additionally, ensure the battery is securely fastened and all connections are tight.
Next, use a multimeter to test the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should show around 12.6 volts (with the engine off). If the reading is below 12.2 volts, it's probably time to replace the battery, which has a service life of about four years.
- Check the Belts and Hoses
A quick inspection of your engine’s belts and hoses can prevent catastrophe down the road.
The serpentine belt at the front of the engine drives several critical accessories, including the alternator and air conditioning compressor. Look it over for signs of fraying or cracking. If you find any wear or notice the belt is loose, it’s time to replace it.
DIY Tip: Take a flashlight and check the hoses under the hood for swelling, cracking or leaking, particularly at their connection points. If you detect any issues, replace the affected hoses and any surrounding clamps. This is cheap insurance against a major blowout, which could lead to significant engine damage.
- Wash Away the Winter Grime
Once you've got everything running tip-top, it’s time to give your vehicle a thorough cleaning to remove any grime and road salt it may have accumulated through the winter. Not only does this help maintain your car’s appearance, but it also wards off potential corrosion.
DIY Tip: Spend extra time and special attention to the areas that collect dirt and salt, such as the wheel wells and undercarriage.
Once the car is clean and dry, wax it. This adds a protective layer, shielding the finish from the summer sun's strong UV rays, which can otherwise cause oxidization. This final step ensures your vehicle looks great and is well-protected for all your summer adventures.
Still have questions? Speak to one of our Tinker Experts today!
