Since the summer season is in a full swing, you are bound to take occasional short trips to the beach. Honestly, who isn’t? In fact, most of us must be planning to take our cars on a long road trip as well.
While it is very common to maintain your car in the winter season, keeping it in the top-notch condition during the summer season is equally essential. The only way you can enjoy a long trip without facing any vehicle breakdown issues is by getting your car serviced beforehand.
To help you with this overwhelming task, we have put together a few essential car care tips for the summer season.
Coolant System
Keeping your cars cool during the summer season is very important. Hence, make sure that you are checking the level of coolant in your vehicle. Also, inspect the hoses and reservoirs carefully for any leaks and check the connection points and joints as well.
Wipers
In case, the region you reside in gives surprising showers during summers every once in a while, you should make sure that your wipers are in working condition. Worn out wipers tend to leave streaks on the windshield which might further affect your driving too. Thus, when you take your vehicle for servicing, enquire about the wipers as well.
Engine Belt
Your car’s engine belt gets loose over time and starts to make noises. Thus, while your car is in servicing, make sure that the engine belt has the right tension and is in good condition. If it is worn out, replace it right away!
Essential Fluids
It is important to inspect the oil, windshield-washer fluids, and power steering fluids on a regular basis. Monitoring these consumables and asking your mechanic to inspect your vehicle for the same is important for your vehicle’s health.
Tyres
Your car tires need to be monitored throughout the year. It is important to make sure that the pressure in all the wheels is equal. Look out for stones and nails stuck within the treads. Also, it is always wise to keep a spare tire in your car, especially during long summer trips.
Air Conditioner
If your car’s air conditioner has not been functioning properly, now is the time for you to get it serviced. Since it is summer time, the use of the air conditioner will be quite often. Getting your car serviced under professional supervision will ensure that all the leaks and other minor issues are fixed.
Sunshade and Dashboard
If you park your car in a parking lot that is usually exposed to the sun, then you might as well buy a windshield cover that helps in protecting the dashboard from the harmful UV rays. Also, it will keep the cabin cool. On the other hand, you can buy shades for the windows at the rear. Thus, ensuring that the rear seats along with the dashboard are well-protected from the summer heat.
Conclusion
The summer season is meant for long road trips with family and friends. Make sure that this year you are carrying all the essential items such as spare tire, emergency first-aid kit, snacks, and water bottles.
Get your vehicle properly serviced well in advance. Another essential requirement is to make sure that you have appropriate car insurance. If you own a car, it is mandatory to have motor vehicle insurance.
Your car insurance policy should be up-to-date and you need to have a valid driving license before you plan a road trip. Driving without a valid license and an inactive car insurance plan is nothing but a direct invitation to problems – which could also be legal in extreme cases.
With these tips, your car will surely be in top-notch condition throughout the journey.