Traversing Sacramento roads in the heat of summer is a cruel punishment that every local driver must go through, and what could make this situation even worse is dealing with car issues. Stuck on the side of the road– sun beaming down, and asphalt reflecting the 100-degree weather like an oven is a scene no one wants to be in.
That’s why to secure a pleasant driving experience and a shield from the inferno that is the heat outside the car door, follow this automotive guide, written with help from the American River College Automotive Department.
1. Tires
“They are the only part of the car that contacts the ground,” said Jennifer West, a professor for the ARC automotive department, explaining the importance of tires to the overall car.
With the heat, the summer brings higher fluctuations in temperature and more exposure to sunlight, meaning tire rubber is more susceptible to drying and cracking. Overheating could also be an issue affecting traction, all of which can increase the chance of sudden failure.
Tips:
Make sure your tires are in top condition, especially if planning on driving long distances.
Use a quarter and face George Washington’s head down against the tire, if the top of his head is still visible, the tires should be replaced.
2. Oil
“A lot of students don’t check their oil, everyone should…but most people don’t do that,” said Larry Hawe, an adjunct professor for the ARC automotive department.
Although oil is not specifically more urgent during summertime, the automotive department made sure to mention it since it is such a vital component of a functioning car and oil levels are a constant issue.
“I can’t tell you how many cars that before they reach the next oil change are low on oil,” said Erick Harper, a professor for the ARC automotive department.
Tips:
Every time someone is pumping at the gas station, it is the perfect time to check oil levels.
If the car has a dipstick: take it out and wipe it with a napkin or cloth to accurately read it, insert it back in, take it out once more and look at where the oil reaches on the stick. Dipsticks will have markers that show where the optimal oil levels should be, if below add more.
If the car does not have a dipstick, search for a YouTube tutorial on how to read oil levels through the dashboard or bring it to a mechanic shop.
3. Battery
Car batteries are sneaky issues that are not often talked about as particularly prevalent during summer.
Benjamin French, chair of the ARC automotive department, explained that in addition to the high heat affecting the efficiency of batteries, many people will have their cars playing music with the engine not running and have their air conditioning at full blast all day.
French adds that this leads to a spike in battery failures seen during the summer months, which falls back down during the rest of the year.
Tips:
Batteries should be in the 12-volt range preferably 12.6 or more.
Volt meters, which read voltage, can be found easily for under $20.
4. Cooling system
This is an important aspect of car maintenance for the summer since this is the system that keeps the engine from overheating.
“For summertime, number one would be the cooling system,” French said.
Check for leaks in the system and if the belts and hoses are working, as well as the coolant itself.
Tips:
Warning: make sure before checking the coolant, the car has had time to cool since the heat creates pressure that can cause hot coolant to spray out.
Under the hood, there is usually a cap labeled coolant and a clear/white reservoir with a full-to-low meter.
Coolant is a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water and should be a vibrant and semi-translucent liquid, if not it would need replacing.
If low, add more coolant by using a rag to open the cap and adding it straight into the reservoir. If unsure which antifreeze to use, consult the manual or the nearest auto parts retailer.
5. Air Conditioning
Although the engine temperature is essential, keeping the driver cool can be just as important.
“It’s a great idea to get your air conditioning checked now,” French said. ”So that you don’t realize when it’s 100 degrees out that it’s not up to snuff.”
Tips:
Take the car to an authorized technician, as air conditioning systems can be complicated to operate.
If your car is already having overheating issues, it’s best to not use air conditioning as it can exacerbate the issue.