Summer car care: worried about your car in the upcoming scorching heat of summer in Florida? The extreme climate can take a toll on your car and affect its performance.
In this blog, we will discuss summer car care tips for vehicle owners in Florida. These include:
- Fluid Check and Maintenance
- Tire Care
- Battery Maintenance
- Air Conditioning System
- Emergency Preparedness
Fluid Check and Maintenance
It is imperative to keep a check on fluid levels. This is especially essential during the summers to prevent overheating and engine damage.
Engine Coolant
You should verify coolant levels and mix for proper engine cooling. We recommend you periodically flush and replace the coolant according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
In addition, consider using coolants with higher temperature ratings. This provides added protection from the sizzling heat of Florida. Coolants with anti-corrosion properties can help increase the longevity of cooling system components.
Moreover, inspect the radiator and hoses for any signs of leaks or damage. You should clean the radiator fins to ensure efficient heat dissipation.
Engine Oil
Maintaining optimal engine performance requires adhering to a consistent oil change schedule. This is typically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. However, we recommend changing oil more frequently in the hot summers of Florida.
When changing oil, we advise you to choose synthetic oils designed for high-temperature conditions. This offers improved stability, lubrication, and protection against wear. Furthermore, you should also ensure the regular replacement of the oil filter as part of your summer car care. This enhances filtration efficiency and leads to the vehicle’s optimal performance.
Brake Fluid and Transmission Fluid
In hot summer weather, it’s crucial to regularly check and top up brake and transmission fluids. Brake fluid, essential for effective braking, should be monitored closely. You should also periodically flush the fluid to counter the impact of heat. This is especially critical to prevent accidents and ensure safety.
Similarly, check transmission fluid levels and adhere to recommended intervals, considering the strain hot weather can impose. These steps ensure the reliability of your vehicle’s braking and transmission systems during the summer heat.
Power Steering Fluid
In Florida’s hot weather, it’s crucial to check your car’s power steering fluid regularly. The intense heat can make the fluid evaporate faster, messing with how well your steering works. You should make sure the fluid level is good, and if it looks weird or low, get it topped up or changed. This helps keep your steering smooth and responsive, even in the scorching heat.
Tire Care
Tires are the most important part of summer car care. The blistering hot temperatures can take a toll on them. Proper tire care is essential for both safety and performance. You should keep a check on the tire pressure regularly, as extreme heat can cause fluctuations.
We recommend investing in quality tires designed for high temperatures. This significantly enhances your vehicle’s stability and handling. Additionally, inspect the tread depth and rotate your tires to ensure even wear.
Moreover, it is imperative to verify the spare tire condition and ensure that your toolkit is complete. This will save you from a lot of hassle if your tire decides to give up mid-way due to extreme temperatures.
Battery Maintenance
Proper battery maintenance is essential for ensuring the reliability of your car. You should regularly inspect the battery terminal and clean them to prevent corrosion. We also recommend considering a battery insulator to shield against heat.
Furthermore, you should conduct battery tests to identify potential issues early on. This is especially critical if the battery is over three years old. It is also important to perform charging system checks to ensure the alternator and associated components are functioning correctly.
These simple yet effective practices result in vehicle longevity and reliability. Consequently, it reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
Air Conditioning System
Refrigerant Levels
Are you worried about sweat dripping off your forehead in the summers of Florida? If yes, you should consider fixing your air conditioning system. It’s about time to experience the chilled air brushing against your face in the summer heat.
You should regularly check and verify the refrigerant levels to ensure the system’s efficiency. If there are any signs of low refrigerant or leaks, you should proactively address them to prevent further damage to the A/C system.
We recommend visiting a car maintenance shop for a comprehensive A/C system inspection before the peak of Florida’s summer heat in 2024.
Cabin Air Filter
It is imperative to replace the cabin air filter to maintain an effective A/C system. A clean air filter leads to efficient cooling and air circulation. It does so by preventing dust and pollen from entering the vehicle.
However, the air filters can become clogged over time and reduce the system’s performance. This is a sign for you to replace the cabin air filter. This enhances the air quality inside the car and improves the efficiency of your car’s A/C system. It’s a small investment that pays off with cool breezes in Florida’s heat.
Emergency Preparedness
Still, imagining the horror of getting stuck mid-way due to extreme temperatures? It’s better to be prepared in case the day is not in your favor.
We recommend preparing an emergency kit which includes the essentials to beat the heat. These include flashlights, jumper cables, and basic tools for on-the-go repairs. Other than that, keep water, non-perishable snacks, and a first aid kit.
You should also keep a list of mobile repair shops to contact in case things are beyond do-it-yourself repairs.
Car Maintenance for Florida Drivers in 2024
Looking for the perfect car maintenance shop to get your vehicle issues sorted before the peak summer arrives? We, at Autosauce Performance, are dedicated to providing reliable auto repair services in Lakeland, Florida.
Our ASE-certified technicians ensure that you receive the best possible customer experience. Moreover, we offer fair and honest pricing for every customer and treat their car as our own.
Autosauce Performance is your one-stop repair shop in Florida. Hence, visit us today and stop worrying about the sizzling summers of Florida. We will take care of your vehicle to ensure you spend the summers easy and breezy.
Contact us today to book an appointment!