Summer brings sunshine, road trips, and plenty of driving adventures, but it also challenges your vehicle with extreme heat and long distances. Without proper care, your car can suffer from reduced fuel efficiency, overheating, and even unexpected breakdowns. By following these car summer maintenance tips, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly, save on fuel costs, and ensure your safety on every journey.
Tire health is vital for safe summer driving. High temperatures can cause tire pressure to increase, which may lead to blowouts. Check your pressure at least once a month using a reliable gauge.
Under-inflated tires can reduce fuel economy and increase wear, while over-inflated tires can reduce road grip and cause hydroplaning (Tire Safety Tips).
Don’t forget to inspect tread depth using the penny test—if Lincoln’s head is visible, it’s time to replace your tires. For Luton drivers, you can book a tire safety check at Modus Car Body Repairs.
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, keeping it cool and lubricated. In summer, engines can overheat more easily, so it’s wise to check oil levels before long trips.
Most experts recommend an oil change every 3,000–7,500 miles depending on your car model (Read more about oil change here).
Always recycle used oil at certified disposal centres to protect the environment.
If you use snow tires in winter, swap them for lighter all-season tires to improve fuel efficiency. Clean salt and grime from your car’s undercarriage to prevent corrosion. Check all fluid levels, especially if your car was stored during winter.
Radiator hoses and engine belts are crucial for temperature control. Heat can cause rubber parts to crack or deteriorate, leading to coolant leaks or overheating. Experts suggest replacing belts every 36,000 miles (Check this article on how to keep your car running longer).
A clogged air filter can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%. Replace yours every 12,000 miles, or sooner if you drive on dusty roads. A fresh filter improves airflow, boosts performance, and protects your engine from harmful debris.
Summer storms can hit suddenly. Wipers worn by winter conditions may leave streaks and reduce visibility. Replace the entire blade for best results. If unsure, auto shops can match and fit the correct wipers for your car model.
Your brakes are your car’s most important safety feature. If you hear grinding noises or feel spongy pedals, have them checked immediately. Delaying brake repairs can lead to higher repair costs and dangerous driving conditions.
Engines run best around 200°F, but in summer, overheating risks increase. Flush and replace coolant every two years with a 50/50 antifreeze-water mix. Look for leaks, as even a small coolant loss can cause breakdowns.
Heat accelerates battery wear by causing fluid evaporation. Clean corrosion from terminals with a baking soda-water paste. Secure the battery to prevent vibrations, and have it tested if it struggles to hold charge (Car Care Council – Battery Maintenance).
A failing AC can make summer driving unbearable. If your AC isn’t cooling effectively, it may have low refrigerant levels or leaks. Older cars may require an upgrade from R-12 Freon to the eco-friendly R-134a refrigerant.
Following these car summer maintenance tips will keep your vehicle reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient throughout the season.
If you’re in Luton or nearby, visit Modus Car Body Repairs, located at 2 Taylor Street, LU2 0EY, Luton, Bedfordshire, for expert summer car maintenance, repairs, and detailing.
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