Preparing Your Car For Summer

Now that the winter is over, we are all looking forward to warm weather and the chance to get out of the house. You're likely looking to hit the road and take advantage of the longer days.

Before you start a road trip, there are many different safety elements you need to consider for your car. The long winter months can expose your car to deterioration and normal wear and tear.

Now is the time to prepare. By inspecting your car and having it serviced in the springtime, you can protect yourself from safety risks before your summer plans take hold.

Verify Your Insurance Information

Start the spring inspection process by reviewing your auto insurance policy. Make sure that your coverage is still active for the vehicle you own. Make adjustments to coverage levels or any information that may impact your coverage.

Check Your Engine

Changes in temperature, particularly long periods of cold weather, can damage your engine. As the weather improves, let a professional inspect your car's engine. A mechanic can change the oil and water, and also inspect it for signs of rust, leaks and other deterioration. Tightening any nuts and bolts can help the engine run smoothly during the summer.

Keep a close eye on your engine during the hot periods of the year. Exposure to extreme temperatures can damage the engine in a multitude of ways. Make sure your engine has plenty of coolant and water to operate smoothly during the summer.

Inspect and Change the Battery

Most car batteries last for an average of three to five years. Extreme winter cold is a mortal enemy of batteries. During cold weather, your battery requires more energy and pressure to start the engine. This causes the battery's power to drain much faster than it would in warmer periods.

After a cold winter, your battery might not have a lot of power left in it. The seasonal changes could cause the battery to die quickly. Therefore, it's a good idea to have a mechanic check your battery during your normal spring vehicle maintenance. Most mechanics will perform battery checks free of charge. They can also look around the battery for signs of leaks or corrosion.

If your battery is old or weakened, consider changing it out. That way, you will have plenty of power when you hit the road for summer travels. Replacing the battery early can also help you ensure you're not stuck behind a long line of other drivers who need the same service when the calendar turns to June.

Check Your Tires

A car's tires are essential, as they're the only part of the vehicle that touches the road. It's important to maintain them, as they can react very uniquely to seasonal changes.

Changes in temperature can cause your car's tire pressure to fluctuate. Improperly inflated tires can cause problems with your fuel economy and ability to control your vehicle. If your tires are low on air, you'll likely find it more difficult to hit the gas or steer.

As we enter the period of warm weather, check your tires for the proper pressure. You may need to add air to the tires, which can be done easily.

Also, don't forget to inspect your tire treads. A season of driving in cold and inclement weather can break down a tire's treads. This can cut down on the amount of grip the tires have, raising the risk of accidents.

Clean the AC and Heating Systems

You're likely going to turn off your heating system and turn on your air conditioning for the season. You might ask your mechanic to check your air filter, coolant level and the other elements of the system. Air filters routinely become dirty and coolant levels drop over time. Replenishing these systems helps the car run better. It can also ensure you stay comfortable when driving in the blazing summer heat.

If you drive an older car, inspecting the heating system after a long period of use can expose small leaks, corrosion and other problems before they get bigger.

Watch Out for Your Windshield

Windshield damages are often very expensive to repair. Temperature and other seasonal changes can easily cause damage to a windshield. This damage may include cracks, breaks and structural weaknesses.

As the temperature fluctuates, it could cause your windshield to crack. Glass expands and contracts with temperature. Long exposure to winter weather can sometimes damage the windshield's integrity. And warm weather can also cause this damage.

The increase in severe weather during springtime could also pose damage risks to the glass. Hail, wind and falling debris can damage windshields.

Have your mechanic check your windshield for signs of cracking, weakness or corrosion. You mechanic might recommend reinforcements or a windshield replacement.

As the weather changes, it's time to undertake seasonal maintenance on your car. You should carefully inspect your car's internal systems, and also take the time to check your car insurance. Proper maintenance and insurance can reduce your risks when you are on the road.

Auto Insurance Discounters can help you get a comprehensive auto insurance policy to meet your needs. Call us at (866) 288-6545 for more an instant auto insurance quote.

1 Comments

Taylor Bishop said...
Thanks for going over some tips for getting a car ready for the summer time. Its nice to know that you should check the windshield often because temperature changes could cause damage to it. Perhaps it should be good to know what this damage looks like so that you know when a repair or a replacement is required. http://www.autoglassrepairandreplace.com/auto-glass-replacement

TUESDAY, JULY 24 2018 7:08 AM

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