We often think of winter as the toughest season, taking its toll on our mental health, our bodies, and of course, our cars. But the truth is, summertime can be equally challenging, especially for your vehicle. The heat places some serious stress on various components, and things can quickly fail as a result. If you're not careful, you can wind up on the stranded side of the road—a situation you definitely want to avoid, especially with speeding travelers and the scorching sun for company.
To help you steer clear of car problems this summer, Parts Via has some essential knowledge and product recommendations to share. We'll cover both prevention and preparation, ensuring you're ready for whatever the hot season throws your way.
Common Summer Car Problems to Watch Out For
The first step to avoiding car troubles this summer is knowing what those potential problems can be. The second? Preparing for them. Now, nobody knows your car better than you do. The road it's traveled and how it's been cared for along the way will directly impact which potential threats are greatest to it.
That said, there are some common issues that many drivers face when the mercury rises. Below are the five most frequent car problems people face in summer, along with tips on how to avoid them.
If your car's particular quirk isn't on the list, it's still something you'll want to prepare for. After all, when it comes to summer driving, it's better to be safe than sorry (or stranded!).
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Overheating Engine
Engines generate a lot of heat while running, and the cooling system works to maintain an ideal operating temperature. This becomes more challenging as summer temperatures rise. If your cooling system hasn't been properly maintained, your car is more likely to overheat in the summer. To prevent this, flush the system, add fresh coolant, and replace any faulty components before the hot weather arrives.
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Depleting Fluids
All the fluids in your car tend to deplete over time—especially in high heat. As oils, coolants, and other fluids age, they break down and become more prone to evaporation. If these fluid levels drop too low, the systems they support can face major issues. So, keep an eye on those fluid levels and top them off when necessary. Additionally, be sure to change them at regular service intervals to help avoid any nasty car problems this summer and beyond.
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Overheating Battery
Everyone knows that winters are hard on car batteries, but summers can be just as tough. High temperatures can push a poorly maintained or aging battery over the edge, resulting in slow cranking or complete failure—just like in winter. That's why it's important to have the battery health checked and replaced, if necessary, any time of year.
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Tire Pressure Fluctuations
Tire pressure is directly affected by temperature, and it rises and falls with outside heat. In fact, during summer heat waves, you might notice your tire pressure warning light coming on. It's important to keep tire pressure in check, especially during travel season when you're likely putting more miles on your car than usual. Regular pressure checks can prevent uneven wear, improve fuel efficiency, and enhance safety.
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Failing AC Systems
Last is everyone's biggest fear: a malfunctioning A/C system. While A/C problems can stem from various causes, the most common is simply low refrigerant levels. Thankfully, this is something you can address with a recharge kit from your local auto parts store. However, if your A/C system is underperforming, it’s still wise to have it inspected by a professional mechanic. They can identify any leaks or blockages that might require more extensive repairs.
Essentials That Can Keep You Out of Trouble
While regular maintenance is key, having the right items on hand can really help you keep summer car problems at bay. Here are some essentials to keep in your vehicle to ensure you're prepared for any situation.
Roadside Assistance Membership
Consider this affordable insurance that ensures you always have help when you need it most. A roadside assistance membership—like those offered by AAA and Good Sam, or through your insurance carrier—can provide peace of mind by offering services like towing, tire changes, and lockout assistance.
Spare Fluids
You don’t need to carry a full lube shop in your trunk, but keeping a few quarts of oil, transmission fluid, and a gallon of coolant can be invaluable. Regularly checking fluid levels allows you to top off as needed, especially when traveling and you might not have access to your usual supplies. As a bonus, consider keeping some radiator stop-leak with your spare fluids; it can work wonders in preventing breakdowns.
Tire Pressure Gauge and Inflator
Just because your car has a spare in the trunk doesn't mean all your tire troubles are behind you. Take the additional step of keeping a pressure gauge and portable inflator in your car. This way, you can adjust tire pressure issues no matter where you are.
Portable Jump Starter
A portable jump starter is an essential part of any roadside emergency kit. A dead battery can happen anytime, anywhere. These handy devices ensure you can get back on the road, without having to wait for assistance from a Good Samaritan.
Flares
Getting stranded is tough enough, but it’s even more challenging when it happens at night. Maximize your safety by ensuring other motorists can see you with road flares and reflectors. Choose from the classic, active burning flares or opt for something a little less flammable by going with battery-operated LEDs.
As you prepare for a summer of adventures, don’t forget that having the right parts and accessories can make all the difference in avoiding car problems. Whether you need fluids, tools, or emergency supplies, shopping for quality parts is just a click away. Explore Parts Via’s extensive selection of automotive essentials to ensure you’re ready for anything this summer.