Summer is in full swing, and temperatures have soared across the country, presenting several unique challenges. Driving in the heat can be detrimental to your health and your vehicle if you aren’t careful to ensure that everything is properly maintained.
To do your part and prevent any breaking down incidents on the road, we recommend that you pay attention to the following things when driving in the heat.
Check that your coolant is adequately filled.
When the weather heats up, ensuring that your vehicle’s coolant and antifreeze level is where it’s supposed to be is key to avoiding dealing with your car overheating. Your coolant lubricates your vehicle’s engine while also protecting everything it comes in contact with, including all of the rubber, plastic, and metal parts in your engine. Coolant mixed with water regulates your engine’s temperature in extreme heat and extreme cold and is paramount during the summer months.
Monitor all of the vehicle’s fluids.
In addition to coolant, other fluids that are important for you to monitor during the hottest months of the year include your motor oil, windshield wiper fluid, transmission fluid, and power-steering fluid. All of these fluids play roles in maintaining your vehicle’s smooth performance, and when left unmonitored, your car can take a turn for the worse, especially when the temperatures are high.
Keep an eye on your tire pressure.
The heat can cause your tires to expand, which is a recipe for a blowout when the temperatures get substantially high. Keeping your tire pressure at the right level for the weather conditions is integral to staying safe on the road. Check your tire pressure at the gas station when you fill-up or use a tire pressure gauge to check it intermittently every few weeks at home.
Examine your vehicle’s hoses and belts.
Hot weather can split and harm your vehicle’s hoses and belts, and depending on when this occurs; it could land you on the roadside after an unfortunate incident. We recommend having a local mechanic inspect your vehicle’s belts and hoses at the beginning of the summer, so you know what condition they are in and what to look out for if they need to be replaced soon.
In addition to these tips, we recommend that you keep an eye on your vehicle’s dashboard for any warning lights that indicate your tire pressure, fluid levels, or temperature levels are off. If you find yourself on the side of the road, dial 615.256.TOWS(8697) to reach an operator who will ask you a few relevant questions and send an experienced tow truck driver out to get you to the closest garage or back home. For all of your towing needs during this summer heat, keep Tow Pro in mind. No matter the day or time of your roadside emergency, we’re able to help.