The summer months typically bring unforgiving temperature increases. The same thing can be said during winter, when significant temperature drop causes great inconvenience to pedestrians and vehicle owners alike. Seasonal changes can take a toll on your vehicle.
As a responsible vehicle owner, it is therefore important that you perform the necessary preparations to ensure that your car operates smoothly through extreme heat and freezing cold weather conditions. Different vehicle components react differently to hot weather. While some can withstand extreme heat, some crucial components can suffer from issues when they are under immense heat for an extended period.
It is of utmost importance to bring your car to a reliable Sydney auto mechanic during seasonal changes. A routine car check will help identify parts that need to be repaired and prepare your car for the hotter months ahead.
Tyres
During summer, it’s crucial to get the tyre pressure checked every time you make a stop at a petrol station. It is also a wise investment if you purchase a tire pressure gauge if you have two more vehicles in use. Hotter temperatures have a direct influence on your tyre conditions. Tyres tend to expand under extreme heat, making them more likely to suffer from uneven wear and tear. Ideally, tyre pressure should be equal to the recommended number indicated inside your car’s door jamb. Failure to maintain ideal tyre pressure will lead to costly and premature tyre replacement.
Additionally, heat contributes to the accelerated deterioration of rubber, natural rubber and synthetic tyres. These tyre types contain oils that keep them flexible over time. Heat and resulting friction while driving can make your tires become brittle at a faster rate. If your tires are nearing the end of their lifespan, it’s best to replace them altogether rather than suffer from blowouts or accidents in the summertime.
Battery
Extreme heat during summer can reduce your battery’s lifespan due to accelerated corrosion. During a routine car servicing in the summertime, it is recommended to have a car mechanic in Sydney clean the accumulation of corrosive materials around your battery’s terminals. Auto mechanics will typically tighten any loose clamps to secure connections.
Electrical System
Your vehicle’s electrical system is also affected by extreme heat. This in turn will cause the battery fluid within the car battery to evaporate at a faster rate. Experts recommend replacing your car battery, especially when you haven’t replaced it in a long while. Keep in mind that it is more affordable to obtain car battery replacement from an auto mechanic than service an old battery as a result of extreme heat.
Air Conditioning System
The huge stress that your vehicle battery sustains during the summertime can affect your car’s air conditioning system. The last thing you want during a long drive in the summer is for your air conditioning system to break down. Have your vehicle checked at an auto shop to ensure that your car battery is in good condition to withstand the heat. Replacing the cabin air filter is a good way to keep the flow of air clean. If filter replacement does not solve your air conditioning issue, make sure to schedule an inspection or servicing at your trusted car mechanic in Sydney.
Oil and Fluids
It is crucial to check your car’s fluids regularly during the summertime. Like humans require extra hydration during hotter months, cars require extra hydration, too. Coolant is an important fluid that needs to be in ideal levels in the summer. Dangerously low levels of car coolant can lead to complete engine failure. As your engine is working extra hard in the summer, make sure to park or store your car in a cool place or inside the garage when not in use.
Visit an auto mechanic shop to refill much-needed coolant for your engine. Car mechanics typically begin with flushing the remaining coolant and replace it with a fresh batch. Ideally, the reservoir should contain a 50/50 mix of water and coolant recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
It is imperative that during a car servicing in the summer, these additional fluids are refilled and kept in ideal levels:
- Motor oil
- Brake fluid
- Power-steering fluid
- Windshield wiper fluid
- Transmission fluid
Belts and Hoses
To maintain your vehicle’s optimal performance, you need to make sure that the belts and hoses found in various parts of your car are in good working condition. Damaged or leaking belts and hoses can result in reduced handling, overheating radiator, and complete engine failure. If your car tallies more than 85,000 miles on it, the chances of your vehicle suffering from belt wear is higher. At the beginning of summer, make sure to have an auto mechanic check the following:
- Belt tensioner functions
- Visible signs of cracks and war in all belts
- Idler pulley functions
- Weak sports in hoses that may need additional reinforcement to prevent breakdowns
Don’t wait for problems to cause you inconvenience. Drive your vehicle to HP Automotive today. We are one of Sydney’s most trusted car mechanics with years of expertise in car maintenance and repair services. If you wish to schedule an appointment or additional enquiries, call +61 2 9979 8372 today.