The key to a car running at its best this summer is basic maintenance. During the summer, extreme heat can affect your car in ways you might not be aware. Our friends at O’Reilly Auto Parts know how to prevent the potential troubles ahead.
Be sure to check the following components:
Fluids:
Oil – Change your oil and oil filter as recommended, depending on your driving habits that could be every 3,000 miles. Clean motor oil helps keep your engine running longer.
Antifreeze – Greatest cause of summer breakdown is overheating. Periodically check your antifreeze for the level, condition and concentration of coolant.
Air Conditioner – Hot weather is hard on your air conditioner, if your air conditioner is blowing hot air O’Reilly Auto Parts can help. Eventually your A/C unit may need professional service but until then, you can recharge your system with a can of Interdynamics R134a refrigerant with system leak sealer.
Hoses and belts – Check belts and hoses for cracks, brittle, fray, loose or excessive wear
Check tires – Examine your tires for tread life, uneven wearing, cuts and nicks. Check the pressure once a month, if you’re driving long distances.
Windshield Wipers – A dirty windshield can cause safety issues. Replace worn wiper blades.
Lighting – Inspect all lights and bulbs; replace burned out bulbs, clean dirt and inspect lenses.
Brakes – If it’s hard to stop, hear squealing or grinding noises when braking, vibrating steering wheel, pulling to one side or another. It might be time to replace your brakes.
Battery – The excess heat of summer can shorten battery life causing fluids to evaporate, accelerating corrosion around the terminals and increasing the chances of shorts. Get your battery checked free of charge at O’Reilly Auto Parts.
For more on O’Reilly Auto Parts and to find a store near you, visit their official website.
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