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Caring For Your Automobile During The Summer
Category: AutomotiveIt is common knowledge that we need to keep our vehicle properly serviced for winter.
But this is also important for the summer months. Hot weather can have a significant effect on the running of your car, so you must get it important that you maintain your vehicle’s condition for this time of the year.
Service your vehicle at regular intervals. Doing this can have a large effect on not only performance but resale value also. I kept my last vehicle serviced in accordance to the manufacturers specifications and when it came to selling it, I got more for it due to its good condition.
Now I know this isn’t bedtime reading, but the owner’s manual can be your best friend - assuming you read it! At least take a look-through periodically. How about while you’re waiting to get your oil changed?
Your vehicle should be serviced at the intervals recommended by the manufacturer to avoid any major problems while out on the road.
To avoid a large repair bill, ensure that your air conditioning is checked by a qualified mechanic.
The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. Prevent this problem by making sure the cooling system is flushed and refilled as recommended.
Have your car’s belts, clamps, and hoses checked by a technician. This only takes a few minutes and is usually inexpensive.
Make sure fluid changes are done at 3000 mile intervals.
Replace air and fuel filters as recommended.
Get plenty of windshield washer solvent - we have a tendency to use a lot of this in the winter, so your fluids may be low.
Rotate your tires at 5000 mile intervals.
Also check the condition of your spare tire and removal tools.
If you get a broken transmission, it can translate into a very large hole in your pocket. Repairs are expensive but can be avoided with regular servicing.
If your brakes feel a little ’spongy’ and not as responsive then get them checked immediately.
Have your battery checked periodically to see how much life it has left!
Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they’re working.
Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.
There are some easy step that you can take to keep your car running smoothly during the summer.
These check don’t take very long, perhaps half an hour every month, but can ensure your car keep running properly for years to come.
Robert C. Beiro has written more articles about looking after your car. He has also collected many more motoring articles on topics like making your car more fuel efficient at his website Roberto-Beiro.com.
Tags: servicing, Car, car care, cars, fuel efficient vehicles, fuel saving, motor vehicles, Motoring, vehicles