Essential Checklist for Getting Your Car Ready For Summer After a Long Winter
It’s almost that time of year again: summertime! As the weather warms up, it’s important to make sure your car is ready to take on the heat. After a long winter, de-winterizing your vehicle is essential in ensuring its performance and longevity. From checking tires and fluids to inspecting brakes and oil, there are several components you should look at before hitting the road this season. Here are some tips for de-winterizing your car so you can drive confidently all summer.
Check the Tires
Your tires should be properly inflated and inspected for wear and tear. Low tire pressure can cause blowouts, so check the PSI (pounds per square inch) indicated in your owner’s manual and adjust if necessary. You should also look for bubbles or uneven wear on your tires, as this could be a that they need to be replaced. If you have seasonal tires, be sure to get your ride fit with the right ones post-winter. Check to see that your spare tire is properly inflated as well. You never know when you might need it!
Inspect Fluids and Filters
Take a look at all of your car’s fluids and filters. This includes engine coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and power steering fluid. Let's touch on a couple of the big ones. Loss of brake fluid can lead to poor performance or even cause the brakes to stop working, which can be dangerous. Don't forget about safety! The cooling system helps prevent your ride from overheating, so remember to make sure there’s enough coolant in your car.
Inspect the Brakes
During winter, brakes come under extra strain due to slow traffic conditions and cold weather. We all know how the Colorado traffic can get, especially if you frequent the mountains. The cold weather, paired with the heat of the brakes, can lead to thermal cycling. Whether you’re driving around town or heading off on a summer road trip, be sure to check your brakes. They go through a lot during winter, so don't neglect to inspect them for wear and tear.
Test the AC System
Ensure your air conditioning works properly before you need it during hot summer days. To do this, turn your AC on high and check for airflow. If the air is not blowing out of the vents as it should be, there might be an issue with the system that needs to be addressed. Additionally, you should change your car’s air filter before summertime. A dirty air filter can lead to poor performance and fuel efficiency.
Examine the Battery
In order to prepare your car for summer, you'll want to inspect the battery. Make sure it's configured to reduce vibrations, which can be damaging. Ensure there isn't any discharge or leakage as well. You should also consider having your battery examined by professionals to see how much longer it will last and inspect it for any potential issues.
Clean the Interior & Exterior
Finally, make sure to vacuum the interior carpets and seats. Wash down the exterior windows and doors and wax the car body if it needs it. Cleaning your car is a great way to get back into that summertime spirit and freshen up your ride.
By following these tips, you can get your car ready for summer after a long winter and boost its performance and longevity. Have fun this summer, but make sure to stay safe on the road! Luckily, you don't need to do it on your own. Head on over to Bighorn Automotive for your repair and maintenance needs. They're here to help you get your ride in great shape for your summer adventures.
