Summer Maintenance Is Here
The summer brings a host of new issues that wear on your vehicle, so we've put together a few tips, tricks, and recommendations before the real summer heat comes.
Batteries -
Contrary to popular belief, the Texas heat is actually much harder on batteries than the winter cold. The heat can cause quick corrosion that can cause a significantly lower voltage from the battery over time. Cleaning you battery will eliminate built-up battery acid, helping extend your battery life. Have your battery cables inspected for damage and ensure they’re clean. Have your battery tested for strength as well. If your battery is giving varied strengths, this could mean you have a weak cell. A low readying means it may be time for a replacement.
Hoses & Belts -
Hoses carry very important fluids throughout the truck, such as coolant and oil, making them a very important aspect to keep your eye on. Replacing them is inexpensive, but failure to do so can result in costly repairs, breakdowns, and overall decreasing your up-time. You can easily check your hoses and belts for visible damage, but coolant hoses wear from the inside out. Simply squeeze the end of your hose - if the inside if spongy, its time to replace.
Brakes -
Brake pads deteriorate with normal wear and tear, but extreme temperatures of the winters and summers fast-forward this process. It is essential that you make sure you change brake pads do avoid costly damages and very dangerous situations.
Tires -
Extreme temperatures have a major impact on your tires, their air pressure, and their grip. If you’re driving across the country, through varying climates, it is important to make sure you’re checking your pressure and tread often.
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Air Conditioning System -
The best time to test your A/C is early in the summer before the real heat comes. Have your air conditioner checked by a professional to ensure proper truck maintenance.
Cooling System -
As you can imagine, the summer heat is the perfect time for your truck to overheat. Because of that, it is important to check your anti-freeze and the anti-freeze to water ratios before heading out. It is also a good idea to schedule an engine wash to remove any built-up debris or chemicals from the radiator. This helps prevent the engine from overheating.
Clean Your Truck -
Cleaning the outside of your truck has been proven to aerodynamically improve your drive and increase fuel efficiency.
The best way to take care of all of these issues is by bringing your truck in to have a professional examine and diagnose any potential problems you may have. Even having a conversation with a technician and explaining the issues your vehicle is having could lead to a better, more financially efficient solution. This will save you the time and money in the long run.