5 Tips to Get Your Car Ready for Summer

Summer is right around the corner. Can your car handle the heat? While you need to keep up with regular essentials such as oil changes, brake inspections, and engine maintenance throughout the year, summer is a good time to check several specific areas in your car. Here are our five tips to get your car ready for summer this year.

Can your air conditioner handle the heat?

You probably haven’t had to use your A/C in a few months, so make sure it still works! While it pays to have a professional handle any major problems, there are several things you can easily check yourself:

• Is the air blowing? And does it have appropriate air pressure for each setting?
• Is the air cool? Does it get cooler with the temperature controls?
• Is your air filter clean?
• Have you checked your A/C fuse?

If your air conditioning doesn’t seem to be working, make sure to mess with all the controls. (Some systems are less intuitive than others).

Stay Cool(ant)

You and your passengers aren’t the only ones who’ll need some cooling down this summer. Your car can get overheated without enough coolant, so be sure to check your coolant level throughout the warmer months!

While you’re at it, check the fluid levels throughout your car:

• Oil
• Transmission fluid
• Power steering fluid
• Brake fluid

Stay hydrated this summer!

Make sure your windshield wipers are ready for those summer storms

Even with all the sunshine, rain can come out of nowhere. Don’t get stuck in a sudden summer storm with old windshield wipers. Wiper blades are cheap and easy to change yourself!

Get some shade

High temperatures can heat your car’s interior until it’s unbearable. There’s nothing worse than scalding yourself with a seatbelt buckle or playing hot potato with your steering wheel. Luckily, there are plenty of methods for keeping your car cool. Visit an auto parts store or shop online for:

• A windshield visor
• Steering wheel cover
• Seat covers

These practical items can also give your car a stylish summer makeover!

Get your tires ready for that road trip!

Heat can make your tires expand, so check (and regularly recheck) your tire pressure throughout the summer. Double check your owner’s manual to make sure your tires are properly inflated.

While you’re checking your tires, look for any signs of uneven wearing. It’s also a good idea to check your brakes and replace your brake pads if needed.

Now you’re ready to roll! Check out our top five summer vacation destinations in North Carolina!