Summer is winding down here in the Mitten State, and as the fall season approaches many Michigan families are sneaking in some last minute road trips. While those trips are relaxing and full of fun, don’t forget about the car that helped you along the way! Summer road trips rack up a lot of extra mileage on your vehicle. When you add the extreme heat we’ve been experiencing, your car is going to need some extra TLC. Our team at AA Muffler and Brakes has compiled this list of important parts of your vehicle that might need some extra love as the summer season comes to a close.
Tires
Did you know that for every 10 degree change in the temperature outside, your tires actually gain or lose one (1) PSI? Maintaining proper tire pressure is vital to how your vehicle performs on the road. It affects your tire traction, your car’s stability, and it even influences your fuel economy! Regularly check your tires’ PSI to keep both yourself and your passengers safe while you’re driving.
Battery
Your car battery’s fluid evaporates faster in the heat, and will start to corrode without the proper fluid. That corrosion makes the battery unable to hold a charge. Our staff can help extend the life of your car battery by checking the fluid levels as well as checking for leaks and cracks, and ensuring your car’s connections are clean without any corrosion, rust, or oxidation.
Undercarriage
Keeping your car clean may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s a bigger deal than you might think. During the hot summer months, your car has work much harder to keep cool. Dried mud and stuck-on dirt make your transmission and engine run hotter than if the car was clean. So during these warm days, break out the garden hose and suds up your car! Or, for a more professional clean, head to the nearest car wash and you’ll be on your way.
Cooling System
The radiator keeps your car’s systems running smoothly at a constant temperature. If you get a crack or leak in your cooling system, you’re likely to lose coolant. This coolant is necessary to keep your radiator working properly. If your engine or transmission overheats, you could be looking at serious damage to your car and expensive repairs. You should bring your vehicle in to AA Muffler and Brakes for an inspection at the end of summer. We’ll check your radiator and coolant levels to make sure your car is running in tip-top shape this fall.
Proper vehicle maintenance is the key to safe and smooth summer road trips. Unsure what your car needs? Bring it in to AA Muffler and Brakes for a free inspection!