Check Your Battery
Scorching hot days aren’t friendly to your car battery. So have your battery tested to ensure it’s in tiptop shape. Battery fluid evaporates quickly when the weather is hot, so keep an eye on the battery terminals and wipe away any corrosion that’s built up.
Keep Fluids Topped Off
During summer it’s especially important to check your fluids since they help to cool down the engine. This includes motor oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. If these fluids are low, it’s harder for heat to be carried away from the engine’s components. Check your owner’s manual to see if it’s time for the coolant to be changed. Otherwise, make sure it’s filled to the appropriate level.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
When you’re looking for a parking place, try to find a shady spot or a parking area that’s underground or shielded from direct sunlight.
Use a Sun Shade
It’s a good idea to keep a windshield shade on hand for times when you can’t avoid parking in the sun. Windshield shades not only keep the interior of your car cool, but they help to prevent the damaging effects of sunlight on your car’s interior.
Tire, Hose and Belt Maintenance
Underinflated tires can be a problem on hot days when the pavement is scorching, potentially causing a blowout. Hot weather also makes hoses and drive belts more likely to fail, so inspect them to ensure they’re in good condition with no signs of cracking or other deterioration.
