Top Summer Car Care Tips for Canadian Drivers
Top Summer Car Care Tips for Canadian Drivers
Posted on November 30, 2023
As temperatures rise in Nanaimo, it’s crucial to ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the summer heat. Our expert summer car care guide below provides essential tips on maintaining your vehicle, helping you understand the value of regular upkeep for an enhanced and safer driving experience.
Monitor Your Tire Pressure
Checking your tire pressure is crucial as fluctuating temperatures can cause changes in inflation. Under-inflated tires can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and even tire failure during hot summers. Ensure you check the pressure early in the morning before the day heats up for the most accurate readings. Maintaining proper tire pressure also helps prevent unnecessary wear and ensures you get the best performance from your vehicle.
Additionally, correct tire pressure ensures better handling and braking, which can be critical during sudden summer thunderstorms or on busy highways during holiday weekends. Regular monitoring can also extend the lifespan of your tires, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
Keep Your Cooling System in Check
Your car's cooling system prevents the engine from overheating, which is vital during summer. Check the coolant level on a regular basis and look for signs of leaks, especially around the hoses and the radiator. If you’re unsure, consider a coolant system service at Galaxy Motors Nanaimo to ensure your engine stays cool, even on the hottest days.
It’s also a good idea to inspect the radiator cap for any signs of wear— a faulty cap can cause coolant loss, leading to overheating and severe engine damage. Ensuring your cooling system is functioning properly will help you to avoid major repairs and keep your engine running efficiently throughout the season.
Optimize Your Air Conditioning
A working air conditioning system is essential for comfortable summer driving. If your A/C isn’t cooling effectively, it may signal a freon leak or compressor issue. Routine A/C checks can save you from an uncomfortable drive, and setting it to "interior circulation" helps maintain cooler temperatures without overburdening the system. Before any long trip, consider a full A/C service to ensure peak performance. Proper A/C maintenance not only keeps you cool but also boosts fuel efficiency by reducing the need to open windows, which increases aerodynamic drag.
Replace Windshield Wipers
After the harsh Nanaimo winter, your windshield wipers might need some attention. Inspect them often for wear and tear such as cracks or stiffness. Efficient wipers are essential to combat the summer rainstorms that can decrease visibility dramatically. Replacing old wipers can improve windshield contact and clear your view significantly, enhancing safety during sudden downpours.
New wipers are an affordable upgrade that can make a big difference in adverse weather, ensuring you maintain good visibility during those frequent summer showers. Plus, proper visibility is key to safe driving, helping you to react more quickly to road conditions and other drivers.
Manage Engine Fluids
Engine fluids are an essential aspect of your vehicle. Before you embark on your summer adventures, check your oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. An oil change is often needed after the winter months as it helps your engine run smoothly and efficiently. Low or dirty fluids can lead to poorer performance and higher fuel consumption, which are both undesirable during peak travel season.
Additionally, check your brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and decrease braking effectiveness—a critical safety check before any summer road trips. Ensuring these fluids are at the right levels can prevent engine stress and potential breakdowns during long summer drives.
Clean or Change Air Filters
Your car’s air filters can clog up with dust and pollen during the summer. A clean air filter improves airflow, increases efficiency, and reduces emissions. If you haven’t checked your cabin and engine air filters recently, now might be a good time. A fresh filter can also prevent allergens from circulating within your car, ensuring a more pleasant and healthier environment inside.
Especially if you suffer from allergies, a clean cabin air filter can be a breath of fresh air during pollen season, making your car a safe haven from outdoor allergens. Regular replacement of air filters can also help your engine and A/C system operate at peak efficiency, ensuring your vehicle remains comfortable and responsive.
Protect Your Vehicle’s Interior
The sun’s UV rays can damage the interior of your car, causing upholstery and dashboards to fade. Use a sunshade to protect your interior when parked, and consider applying a UV protectant to your dashboard and seats. Regular vacuuming and dusting inside the car can also keep the interior fresh and free from debris and stains.
Additionally, consider tinting your windows, which not only helps reduce the interior temperature but also protects your skin and eyes from UV exposure during long drives. This window treatment can significantly enhance your comfort and protect your car’s interior from the long-term effects of sun exposure, like cracking and fading of the dashboard and seats.
Connect with Galaxy Motors Nanaimo
At Galaxy Motors Nanaimo, we know the importance of keeping your car in peak condition, especially during the Canadian summer. Our expert team is ready to handle all your vehicle Services in Nanaimo, from routine maintenance to specialized services like air conditioning repair and wheel alignment. Book a check-up today to get your car summer-ready!