Summer is right around the corner! And there comes the soaring temperatures and heatwaves. While we’re busy sipping cold drinks and hunting for shade, your car is out there taking the full brunt of the sun. And just like you need hydration and sunscreen, your car needs a little extra love and care to survive (and thrive) in the summer months.
You might find your engine’s performance degrading or the batteries breaking down, tyre heating issues, etc. However, with proper car maintenance and smart planning, you can ensure that your vehicle is ready to tackle the Indian summer with ease. Discover which car parts require extra attention this summer and how you can address them.
Some Simple Car Maintenance Tips For Summer Survival
Indian summers can be gruelling, especially for car engines. Summer car care can be a challenge, so here are some simple car care tips for the summer that will help you prepare better.
Protect Your Car From UV Rays
When parking your car, find a spot with some shade to prevent prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and harmful UV rays. Overexposure to sunlight can fade your car’s interiors, overheats your cabin, and even damages your car’s electronics.
- You can use a car heat protector cover and a fresh coat of wax polish to avoid any damage to the paint and metal parts.
- Window shades are also great summer car accessories when it comes to protection against sunlight.
Check Your Battery
One of the most important steps of car maintenance is to check your battery’s health every other month to ensure optimal performance. When left outside in the heat for a long time, the internal temperature of the battery can rise. This excessive heat can lead to a shorter lifespan.
- Check battery terminals for corrosion and ensure cables are tightly connected.
- If your battery is older than three years, it is wise to have it checked by an expert, especially before starting a long road trip.
- Keep an eye out for slow starts or flickering lights. Both are early warning signs.
Engine Oil Top Up
Engine oil is not just for ensuring the smooth running of the car. It also filters out any dirt or debris from the engine parts. The summer heat has a tendency to wear down engine oil faster than usual. Therefore, it is always advisable to get your engine oil changed, or topped up in the beginning of summer.
- Get the engine oil checked and changed regularly, as recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
- Synthetic or semi-synthetic oils are usually better suited for high temperatures and offer enhanced performance but always ensure the oil you choose is compatible with your engine.
Coolant Refill or Top-up
Optimal fluid level is a must for a vehicle’s life and performance. While the engine oil helps reduce friction between heavy moving parts of your car, the coolant prevents the car radiator from getting too hot.
- You can check the coolant level by opening up your car bonnet and looking for the optimal mark on the container. If it’s low, it’s time to refill with the coolant mix. Check the owner’s manual if you are unsure about the right coolant mix for your vehicle.
Remember, only check or refill the coolant when the engine is cool. Opening it while it’s hot can be dangerous.
Check Your Tyres
Any rubber parts like tyres, seatbelts and other accessories can degrade in the extreme heat. While this change isn’t visible to the naked eye, it can cause loss of control and tyre blowouts during driving. Also, an increase in tyre pressure due to running resistance on a concrete road can result in the bursting of tyres.
- Maintaining proper tyre pressure will ensure proper protection and control.
- If your tyres have lost all traction, replacing them should be at the top of your summer car maintenance tips list.
- Consider filling your tires with nitrogen. Unlike regular air, nitrogen expands less when heated, helping to maintain more stable tyre pressure even on scorching summer roads. This can reduce the risk of blowouts, improve fuel efficiency, and extend tyre life.
Check the Air Conditioning
Any rubber parts like tyres, seatbelts and other accessories can degrade in the extreme heat. While this change isn’t visible to the naked eye, it can cause loss of control and tyre blowouts during driving. Also, an increase in tyre pressure due to running resistance on a concrete road can result in the bursting of tyres.
- Maintaining proper tyre pressure will ensure proper protection and control.
- If your tyres have lost all traction, replacing them should be at the top of your summer car maintenance tips list.
- Consider filling your tires with nitrogen. Unlike regular air, nitrogen expands less when heated, helping to maintain more stable tyre pressure even on scorching summer roads. This can reduce the risk of blowouts, improve fuel efficiency, and extend tyre life.
Pay Attention to Your Brake System
The braking system is the key to your vehicle’s safety. Over time, heavy traffic or long drives can cause brake pads to wear out and brake fluid to degrade. This may reduce overall braking efficiency.
- If you notice any squeaking, vibration, or a soft brake pedal, get them inspected immediately.
- Ensure that both brakes are responsive and are in their best condition.
Keep Your Emergency Kit Ready
Before the peak of summer, update your emergency kit to handle the challenges that come with driving in extreme heat. Along with a basic first-aid kit (bandages, antibiotic cream, gloves, scissors, and sterile gauze pads), include:
- Plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated if you’re stranded in the heat.
- Electrolyte sachets or sports drinks to help prevent heat exhaustion.
- Sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself during roadside emergencies.
- A reflective sunshade or emergency blanket that can provide shade if you have to wait outside your vehicle.
- Heat-resistant snacks like energy bars that won’t melt or spoil easily.
- A tire repair kit and portable air compressor is a necessity. High temperatures can increase tire pressure and the risk of punctures or blowouts. Having these on hand helps you handle minor tire issues until you reach a service station.
- A charged power bank to ensure you can contact help in case of a breakdown. Your electronic devices tend to drain their batteries faster in the Summer heat.
Keeping your kit summer-ready means you can handle unexpected heat-related emergencies safely and comfortably.
Wrapping Up
- Following our summer car tips for car maintenance in summer will ensure that your sweet ride is ready to take on the scorching streets and dry wind. With a few smart checks fluid levels, tyre health, brake responsiveness, and battery strength, you can hit the road with confidence. And don’t forget that emergency kit!
- Whether you’re driving to the office or heading on a weekend getaway, a well-maintained car is your best travel buddy. Keep it cool, keep it ready, and cruise through summer without breaking a sweat.