During hot summer months, it’s not uncommon for temperatures inside and outside vehicles to skyrocket. This can be uncomfortable—sometimes dangerous—for drivers and passengers alike and can even lead to health and vehicle problems if the heat becomes too extreme.
Fortunately, you can take steps to protect yourself and your vehicle from the hot weather conditions. Whether you’re driving a car, truck, RV, or bus, it’s important to ensure various systems of your vehicles are in good working order to keep you comfortable and safe on the road. Here are some tips to make that happen.
1. Check the Air Conditioning System.
Your vehicle’s air conditioning system is responsible for keeping the interior cool and comfortable while you’re driving.
If your AC system isn’t working properly, you may notice that the air blowing out of the vents is warm or that the AC compressor isn’t engaging. This can be caused by a number of issues, including low refrigerant levels, a faulty compressor, or a leak in the system.
To keep your vehicle’s AC system working properly, it’s important to have it inspected and serviced regularly. This can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems and ensure that your system is fully charged and functioning properly.
2. Flush and Replace Coolant Regularly.
During hot weather, the engine can get very hot, which can lead to damage if the cooling system isn’t working properly. Signs of a malfunctioning cooling system include overheating, leaks, and low coolant levels. One service to prevent overheating and engine damage is linked with the coolant.
However, coolant loses its lubricating and temperature-moderating properties after a while. So, it is best to schedule a coolant flush every three to five years, depending on the type of antifreeze your vehicle uses. This can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems and ensure that your coolant levels are topped off.
3. Inspect the Radiator.
Besides the coolant, the radiator is another key component of your vehicle’s cooling system. It transfers heat from the engine to the air outside the vehicle. If it’s damaged or clogged, it can prevent the cooling system from working properly, leading to overheating.
To keep your vehicle’s radiator in good working order, get it inspected and cleaned regularly. This can help prevent buildup of debris or corrosion that can cause damage to the radiator.
4. Inspect the Battery and Replace It (if Necessary).
Hot weather can be tough on your vehicle’s battery. High temperatures can cause the battery to overheat and fail, which can leave you stranded at any time. Signs of a failing battery include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, and a battery warning light on the dashboard.
To keep your battery in good shape, have it tested regularly to identify any potential issues before they become major problems. This can help ensure your battery is charged and functioning properly.
5. Maintain Your Tires
Hot weather can also be tough on your vehicle’s tires. The hot conditions can cause the air in your tires to expand, which can lead to overinflation and blowouts.
It’s important to check your tire pressure regularly during hot weather and ensure the air pressure is correct. In most cases, keeping it two pounds low when it’s cold is best. Also, look for uneven wear on the tires and “bubbles.”
6. Keep the Interior Cool.
Here are more tips to keep your vehicle’s interior cool:
- Park in the shade whenever possible. This can be as simple as parking under a tree or next to a building that provides shade.
- Use a windshield sunshade. It reflects the sun’s rays away from your vehicle, keeping the interior cooler.
- Consider opening the windows slightly to allow some air to circulate and prevent the interior from becoming too hot.
- Consider using seat covers made of a breathable material like mesh or cotton. Try avoiding leather and vinyl seats, which can get very hot in the sun.
- Consider tinting your windows to help block out some of the sun’s rays.
- Use a dashboard cover made of reflective material. The dashboard can get very hot in the sun, making it uncomfortable to touch and leading to cracking and fading.
Beat the Heat with the Help of Mast Service Center
The actions above can help cool the vehicle’s interior faster, which is better for you and the vehicle’s various systems.
Keep your vehicle cool during hot months in Etna Green, Nappanee, and nearby areas in Indiana. Contact Mast Service Center at (574) 646-2127 for inquiries or an appointment. We are conveniently located at 8608 North State Road 19, Etna Green, IN 46524.
