Scott's Automotive, Inc. and its automotive mechanics provide its clients and other readers with free advice on automotive maintenance procedures that are necessary for summer. These tips are published as a public service in the auto service company's website. They include simple maintenance procedures which even the vehicle owners themselves can do at home, as well as more complex maintenance procedures and diagnostic check ups that are best done only by qualified and highly skilled automotive mechanics who have undergone proper training and certification.
Maintenance procedures, if properly observed, lower the possibilities for mechanical failure and vehicle breakdown. This, in turn, lessens the need for car repair. Not only does it save the owner money in the here and now but it also extends the useful life of the vehicle and keeps it resale value significantly higher.
In summer, vehicles need more care. The previous winter has already punished the vehicle body and its parts with freezing temperatures ad, possibly, ice and snow on the roads. By summer, the other extreme occurs. The vehicle is subjected to intense heat, a lot of dust and the inevitable traffic jams that impose stop-and-go driving. Such extremes can create conditions that cause vehicle malfunction.
Because of the soaring temperatures, auto AC repair is often the most common service required in summer. Without proper maintenance all year round, a vehicle's air conditioning operating system is more prone to break down exactly when it is needed most. You should, therefore, have your vehicle's air conditioner regularly checked and maintained by your automotive mechanic even before and beyond summer. This will lessen your need for auto AC repair.
The vehicle's engine and transmission are also vulnerable to overheating in the heat of summer. The vehicle's cooling system has to be completely flushed and refilled every two years. Even much more frequently, though, your automotive mechanic should check the level, condition and concentration of your vehicle's coolant, as well as its hoses, clamps and drive belts.
Your vehicle's oil, oil filter, air filter, fuel filter and other filters should be checked and changed according to the instructions in your vehicle owner's manual. If you are, however, in the habit of making frequent short trips or long trips with heavy loads, especially on very dusty roads, these check ups and changes should be done even more frequently. Immediately contact and consult your automotive mechanic once you notice any problem in engine performance such as stalling, rough idling and hard starts. Do the same once you notice any changes in the performance of your vehicle's brakes.
Take care of your vehicle's battery by regularly cleaning off its surfaces, removing any corrosion on on battery posts and cable connections, and tightening connectors. Remember never to touch battery corrosion and battery acid. Wear rubber gloves and eye protection for your safety.
Keep all parts of your vehicle always clean and immediately replace any damaged or worn parts such as windshield blades and light bulbs. The windshield washer solvent container should always be filled.
Regularly check the pressure on all your tires and the wear on their treads and sidewalls, preferably monthly. If your vehicle tends to pull to one side and its treads show uneven wear, have the tires realigned. Every 5,000 miles, have your tires rotated.
Always make sure you have everything needed for an emergency, especially before a long drive. Recheck the tires' pressure and condition. Carry a spare tire, jack and all other tools necessary for troubleshooting, including a flashlight, a first aid kit, flares and, of course, your cellphone.
These auto service maintenance tips from Scott's Automotive, Inc. will protect your vehicle in summer and lower your car repair expenses.