Many people think summer weather is gentler on cars than winter, but that's not entirely true. While it's true that winter brings icy roads and freezing temperatures, summer comes with its own set of challenges, like torrential downpours, flash floods, and even hailstorms.
Hot summer temperatures can make your car heat up faster, putting extra strain on the cooling system. Your tires may also over-inflate due to air expansion, and the extreme heat can wear out hoses, belts, and other rubber or plastic components. Given these conditions, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is prepared for summer storms by addressing several key areas.
Maintaining Windshield Wipers
When it's pouring rain, your windshield wipers become critical for maintaining visibility while driving. However, over time, wiper blades degrade as the rubber deteriorates or the metal arms become misaligned. Instead of driving through a heavy storm with only one functioning wiper blade, inspect your wipers monthly and replace them every six months or so. Additionally, always keep your windshield wiper fluid topped off; without it, the blades won’t effectively remove dirt and debris from your windshield.
Inspecting Headlights
Your headlights are just as important as your windshield wipers for maintaining visibility during bad weather. If the bulbs are burnt out or the lights have dimmed due to moisture inside, take your car to a mechanic to address these issues. Properly functioning headlights could save you from potential accidents during a storm.
Tire Care
Your tires are your vehicle’s connection to the road. In adverse weather conditions, they determine whether you maintain control or end up hydroplaning. To get your tires ready for summer weather:
- Ensure they’re properly inflated. Hot temperatures can cause air to expand, increasing the risk of a blowout.
- Check the rubber for cracks, leaks, and tread depth. Aim for at least 3 millimeters of tread for good traction.
- Swap out snow or winter tires for all-season ones that better suit the warmer weather.
Interior Windshield Cleaning
We usually focus on keeping the outside of the windshield clear, but the inside plays a part too. Fog and condensation can build up there, especially if the glass is covered in dirt or grease. Clean the inside windshield thoroughly at the beginning of the season so that when you use the defroster during a storm, it clears the fog and moisture efficiently.
Test the Air Conditioner
Don’t wait until the first storm hits to turn on your air conditioner. Early in the season, test the A/C to confirm it’s blowing cool air. Listen for unusual noises and check for any fluid leaks. If anything seems off, get the system serviced before the temperature spikes.
Protecting the Paint Job
Summer weather poses various threats to your car’s paint job, from tree sap and bird droppings to UV rays, even before a major storm hits. To safeguard your car:
Start the season by washing off all winter grime, including road salt and dirt. Then, have the entire exterior professionally waxed to shield it from the elements. When parking, choose a shaded spot away from tree branches to minimize sun exposure. Whenever possible, keep your car in the garage during severe weather events.
Checking and Replacing Fluids
In case of evacuation due to an impending flood, ensure your car has sufficient fluids to get you to safety. Before a storm, review the condition and volume of essential fluids like engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Top off or replace them as needed.
No matter if the damage comes from floodwaters, hailstones, or strong winds, DaSilva’s Auto Body can assess your vehicle and suggest necessary repairs. For assistance, reach out to our Naugatuck location today.
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