As the days get warmer, you must maintain your car to ensure it runs smoothly and keeps you safe. This is particularly beneficial for seniors and their caregivers who rely on their vehicles for independence and convenience. Uncover some practical tips for maintaining your car during summer to ensure success.
Essential Summer Car Maintenance Tips
Your car requires regular check-ups to guarantee that the tires' pressure, all fluid levels, and the battery's health are intact. Regular check-ups help identify potential issues before they become big problems. Aim for a check-up every month, or at the very least, during the start of the summer season. This keeps your vehicle in top shape and ensures a safe driving experience.
Tire Pressure
Hot summer temperatures can significantly affect tire pressure. As the heat rises, the air in your tires expands, leading to over-inflation. This affects your car's handling and increases the risk of a blowout.
To maintain proper tire pressure, check your tires at least once per month using a tire pressure gauge. Make sure they are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended levels, which are found in your car's manual or on a sticker inside the driver's door.
Fluid Levels
Fluids are your car's lifeblood, and you need to monitor them closely during the summer. The primary fluids to check include oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Oil keeps the engine parts moving smoothly, while coolant prevents the engine from overheating. Brake fluid ensures that your brakes work properly.
Low fluid levels can lead to serious engine damage and compromised safety. Regularly check these fluids and top them up as needed. Pay attention to warning lights on your dashboard, which can indicate that fluid levels are low.
Battery Health
High temperatures can shorten your battery's life. Batteries tend to work harder in hot conditions, which can lead to a quicker drain. To maintain battery health, check for any corrosion around the battery terminals and ensure the battery is securely mounted. Have your battery tested regularly, especially if it's over three years old.
Keeping the Car Cool and Comfortable
To keep your car comfortable and cool while driving in hot weather, ensure you have a working air conditioning system, adequate sun protection, and overall interior comfort. A working air conditioner is a must during the hot summer months. It ensures you stay comfortable and focused while driving. Schedule a professional check-up for your A/C system before the peak of summer.
Sun exposure can be harsh on both you and your car's interior. Protect your vehicle by using sunshades for the windshield and window tints for the side windows. Sunshades help keep the interior cool, and window tints block harmful UV rays. Use seat covers to keep seats cool, and consider a steering wheel cover to prevent the steering wheel from getting too hot. You can crack open the windows slightly if it's safe to do so when parked.
Preparing for Emergencies
You never know when an emergency might occur. Keep an emergency kit in your car that includes bottled water, non-perishable snacks, a first-aid kit, a flashlight, and jumper cables. You should also avoid driving in extreme weather and pull over if a storm hits.
If your car breaks down, do your best to stay calm. If possible, move yourself to a safe location that's away from traffic. Turn on your vehicle's hazard lights. Then, contact roadside assistance. Keep their number on your phone or have it written down somewhere in your car.
Get Further Safety Advice From Senior Helpers Santa Monica
Summer car maintenance is necessary for ensuring a safe and comfortable driving experience, especially for seniors. Regular check-ups, maintaining tire pressure, monitoring fluids, and keeping your car cool are all significant steps. Don't forget to prepare for emergencies with an up-to-date kit and knowledge of what to do in a breakdown.
For personalized assistance and more tips on senior care, contact us at Senior Helpers Santa Monica, serving Marina del Rey, Santa Monica, Los Angeles, and Pacific Palisades. Stay safe, and enjoy your summer!