Looking for tips on how to care for your car this summer? The team at CJ Auto has got you covered.
Summer is finally here, and let’s face it, we need to take advantage here in the UK.
That means plenty of day trips to the beach and late-night drives with friends to catch every last drop of the sunshine.
However, and you may or may not be aware, the hot weather can cause serious damage to your car if you don’t take care of it properly.
The last thing you want is to end up stranded and have to cut your adventures short.
In this post, the experts at CJ Auto Service highlight some of the best vehicle maintenance tips for the summer for a stress-free season.
Test your battery
Battery failure is one of the most common causes of car breakdowns, and they’re essential to every vehicle.
They’re subjected to extreme pressure working conditions, especially during peak summers (and winters).
The constant rise and fall in temperature make your battery work much harder than usual, and you don’t want to end up stranded on the side of the road with a flat battery.
It’s therefore essential to have your battery tested, either by the experts here at CJ Auto Service or another local garage.
Maintain your air conditioning
Many of us take our vehicle’s air conditioning system for granted, especially in the summertime.
Its value shoots up dramatically as the temperature rises and, although it typically doesn’t require a lot of upkeep, it’s important to keep on top of maintenance during the summer months.
Always make sure your coolant is topped up to the appropriate levels, and keep your vents free of dust, grime and debris so that they don’t block airflow and turn your car into a stifling sauna.
We usually recommend having your AC system checked every 30,000 miles or 2 years – whichever comes first.
Monitor your tyre pressure
Even though tyres are extremely crucial, many of us tend to ignore their condition until they’re on their last legs.
Summer’s high temperatures are known to aggravate any damage already present, leading to an early breakdown, loss of control and other safety issues.
The pressure of your tyres tends to rise and fall with the temperature, which is why it’s so important to monitor them regularly, keeping them in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Check the fluids regularly
Your car runs on several fluids, not just fuel.
They help to lubricate all the different parts, avoid friction, and ensure the smooth functioning of the entire system.
As we’ve established, the warmer months are much heavier and more stressful on your vehicle – and you have to ensure you’re not burdened by the British sun.
The most important is your engine oil. You can use the dipstick method to easily check to levels and refill them as needed.
Next, check your coolant and water ratio in the radiator tank, again topping it up when required.
You should also check your power steering fluid and transmission fluid – to ensure stress-free summer road trips.
Take a look at your brakes
Your brakes are a vital safety feature, so if you notice that they’re not as efficient as they used to be, it’s probably time for a brake inspection.
If you notice any squeaking, grinding or growling sounds when you engage your brakes, it’s a good idea to instruct a mechanic to take a proper look for you.
As well as this, it’s a good idea to make sure your brake fluid is topped up constantly.
Keep your car in check this summer
So, now that you know some of the most essential car care tips for the summer – what are you waiting for?
Waste no time getting yourself on the road for your adventures, and make the most of the sunshine with the peace of mind that your car is safe and sound.
If you need some more tips, or you’re concerned about anything, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our expert mechanics here at CJ Auto Service.
Give us a call on 01925 589 066 or send your query by email to reception@cjautoservice.co.uk for a speedy response from one of our specialists!
