1. Get a windshield sunshade fit for your car. Although a custom fit may cost more, it is well worth the money. Make sure to get a shade that is highly reflective in order to keep your car the coolest when the sun is at its worst.
  2. Check your tire pressure. Most drivers forget how important tire pressure is to road safety. The air in your tires will expand as the days get warmer. An overinflated tire causes your vehicle to have less contact to the road, which can lead to hydroplaning in wet conditions and make tires more susceptible to puncture or damage. The opposite problem, underinflation, can lead to poor grip and damage to the tire structure.
  3. Keep up with your maintenance. Summer, just like winter, can be tough on your car. Extreme heat can dry out belts and hoses, which can lead to problems in keeping your engine from overheating.
  4. Check your coolant. This is crucial for the health of your car in the summertime, especially with increased summer driving schedules. Low coolant can lead to a dangerous level of heat in your engine, which could lead to permanent damage of your car. No one wants to get stranded on the Turnpike when it is 98 degrees in August.
  5. Keep an eye on your battery. We know this sounds like a winter car care tip, and it is, but the summer can be tough on your battery too. The increased heat can ramp up the chemical reaction that takes place in your battery and shorten its lifespan. Keep your battery terminals clean and free of buildup for optimum performance.
  6. Maintain your refrigerant. If you notice that your AC isn’t pumping out cool temperatures, bring your car to a trusted service professional immediately to check for leaks. The longer you wait, the worse the problem may get.
  7. Park in the shade. It sounds like a no brainer, but we often forget. Parking in the shade of a building or tree can reduce the amount of sun and heat your car absorbs. Plus it will help keep your interior color from fading.
  8. Stay out of the hot seat. If you have a leather interior, you know just how hot that seat can get. Keep your driver seat covered with a towel or fabric cover to make getting into your car more comfortable. Also, be aware of how hot your steering wheel and safety belt buckles can get in the hot sun.

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Article and photo courtesy of Plymouth Rock.