You might be ready for summer, but what about your vehicle? Your car or truck probably needs a little TLC, especially after a long winter and the change over to spring weather. Check out a few tips courtesy of Dayton Toyota on how to prep your vehicle for the hot months ahead.
Remove Snow Tires
You certainly don't need your snow tires anymore! Besides, you'll only wear them out that much faster if you use them on dry pavement. Make the switch from your snow or "winter" tires to your summer or "all-season" tires as soon as the weather gets warm. Do it yourself, have a skilled friend or family member perform this service, or have the tires professionally swapped.
Change the Oil
We at Dayton Toyota generally recommend using thicker oil during summer months, as oil tends to thin as it warms. Oil that is too thin results in insufficient engine lubrication, so check your owner's manual or ask a professional to determine which oil is right for your vehicle.
Inspect Tire Pressure
After a long, harsh winter you'll undoubtedly need to check tire pressure. Tire air rises in the summer due to warmer temperatures, as air is a gas that expands when heated. Refer to an expert or your owner's manual to ensure your tires have the right pressure for warm weather, and remember to check tire pressure no matter what the season to ensure optimal vehicle performance. Cars and trucks with the correct pressure in all tires run more efficiently, provide smoother rides, and are safer.
Check the Battery
Batteries are susceptible to heat and don't provide much warning before they die. Have your battery tested at a reputable vehicle repair shop if it is over three years old, and remember to inspect battery posts and connections for corrosion. It's also recommended that you keep a spare battery in your car or truck and change it, regardless of age, before going on a long road trip.
Check Windshield Wipers and Fluid
Inspect your vehicle's windshield wipers and fluid, as you'll want to be prepared for those sudden summer storms. Ensure wiper fluid is at optimal levels, and check wipers for signs of dryness and inability to make complete contact with your windshield. If your wipers feature either or both of these things, replace them. The general life expectancy for windshield wipers is one year.
Inspect Hoses and Belts
Have your belts and hoses inspected before summer hits, as both are much more likely to crack or leak during warm weather.
Check the Cooling System
Your car's cooling system requires flushing and refilling about every 24 months, as overheating is one of the main causes of vehicle breakdowns in the summer. Check the level, concentration, and condition of coolant every month or so, and remember not to remove the radiator cap until the engine is completely cooled! The best water/coolant ratio in your vehicle's radiator is 50/50.
Replace Lights
Check and replace all lights as needed, and don't forget to clean them of insect remains and other debris. Use a clean, damp rag to prevent scratching.
Rate Engine Performance
Have your engine checked for issues such as rough idling, poor starts, and stalling, and replace air, PCV, and fuel filters regularly, especially if living in dusty conditions.
Keep these tips in mind when preparing your vehicle for summer! For more summer-related vehicle maintenance tips, please contact Dayton Toyota today.
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