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Summer is a time of relaxation, road trips, and adventures. But with all this going on, it's important not to overlook one important factor: your vehicle's maintenance. The warm weather, long trips, and heavy loads can put extra strain on your car, making it essential to pay close attention to your vehicle's maintenance.Â
Summer Vehicle Maintenance Checklist
Here are the summer maintenance tasks we recommend and offer at Heartland Ford. As always, if you don't want to mess with any of this, we'd be happy to take care of it all at our stellar Service Department!
1. Oil Changes
The oil in your vehicle is like its lifeblood, ensuring that the engine runs smoothly by reducing friction between its moving parts. During summer, the heat can break down the oil more quickly, making it less effective. So this is a great time to go ahead and get an oil change if it's been a few months. Don't put this off!Â
2. Tire Rotations & Alignments
Your vehicle's tires can be significantly affected by the summer heat. Regular tire rotations and alignments ensure even tire wear, proper vehicle handling, and maximized tire life. It's also crucial to regularly check your tire pressure, as it can fluctuate dramatically with the summer heat.
3. Battery Tests
High temperatures can shorten a battery's life, so it's essential to have your battery tested to ensure it won't fail unexpectedly. If your battery is more than three years old or shows signs of struggle when starting the vehicle, it might be time to replace it.
4. Air Conditioning Checks
A functioning air conditioning system is a must during the hot summer months, not just for comfort, but also for safety reasons. High temperatures inside your car can lead to driver fatigue and decreased alertness. Regular checks ensure your air conditioning system is working correctly and will keep you cool on the go.
5. Check Fluid Levels
Aside from oil, other vehicle fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid, are also crucial for your car's operation. These fluids can deplete faster in hot weather, so it's essential to check and top them off as needed. Regular checks ensure your vehicle's systems work properly and help prevent overheating, corrosion, and other damage.