How to Prepare Your Car for Summer Driving

Apr,

2018

Winter’s over, spring is here and summer is just around the corner! Your car will need some extra attention and service as summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of last winter, and you could be poised for a breakdown. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure through timely car service and maintenance.

The service tips below will more than prepare your vehicle to provide you with dependable and safe transportation throughout the hot summer months:

Air Conditioning -- Have the system examined by a certified A/C technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement intervals.
Cooling System -- The cooling system, the radiator, should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and quality of the coolant should be checked periodically as well as the tautness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.
Oil -- Have the oil and oil filter changed as specified in your manual. More often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.
Engine Performance -- Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended. Do this more often in dusty and dry conditions. If the engine is having driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.), have it inspected and repaired as well.
Windshield Fluid and Wipers -- Replace worn blades and fill up the windshield washer reservoir.
Lights – Replace all burned out light bulbs. Clean the dirt and insects from all lenses.
Tires -- Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressure (while they are cold) once a month. Don't forget to check the spare tire as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine the tires for tread life, uneven wearing, cupping, and nicks and cuts on the sidewalls. An alignment check is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended according to your owner’s manual. Sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or a required longer stopping distance. Brake problems should be corrected promptly.
Battery -- Have it checked and serviced regularly, which includes scraping away corrosion from posts and cable connections; cleaning all surfaces and tightening all connections. If battery caps are removable, have the fluid level checked monthly.
Emergencies -- Be sure to carry some basic tools in your vehicle in case you get stranded, including a first aid kit, flares, a flashlight, water and snacks, blanket, and cell phone charger.

Completing these car service tips will guarantee safe and efficient summer driving. Contact our ASE-certified technicians at Rebel Automotive for more information about our automotive repair services and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Henderson, NV, Las Vegas, NV, and North Las Vegas, NV.

The service tips below will more than prepare your vehicle to provide you with dependable and safe transportation throughout the hot summer months:

Air Conditioning -- Have the system examined by a certified A/C technician. Newer models have cabin air filters that clean the air entering the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement intervals.
Cooling System -- The cooling system, the radiator, should be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and quality of the coolant should be checked periodically as well as the tautness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses.
Oil -- Have the oil and oil filter changed as specified in your manual. More often (every 3,000 miles) if you make frequent short jaunts, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer.
Engine Performance -- Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended. Do this more often in dusty and dry conditions. If the engine is having driveability problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.), have it inspected and repaired as well.
Windshield Fluid and Wipers -- Replace worn blades and fill up the windshield washer reservoir.
Lights – Replace all burned out light bulbs. Clean the dirt and insects from all lenses.
Tires -- Have your tires rotated about every 5,000 miles. Check tire pressure (while they are cold) once a month. Don't forget to check the spare tire as well and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine the tires for tread life, uneven wearing, cupping, and nicks and cuts on the sidewalls. An alignment check is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side.
Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended according to your owner’s manual. Sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or a required longer stopping distance. Brake problems should be corrected promptly.
Battery -- Have it checked and serviced regularly, which includes scraping away corrosion from posts and cable connections; cleaning all surfaces and tightening all connections. If battery caps are removable, have the fluid level checked monthly.
Emergencies -- Be sure to carry some basic tools in your vehicle in case you get stranded, including a first aid kit, flares, a flashlight, water and snacks, blanket, and cell phone charger.