Summer Preventative Maintenance

Extreme heat, especially in Texas, can impact the performance, safety, and reliability of your vehicle in several ways. That’s why it is important to stay ahead of Mother Nature by ensuring your truck and its component are in good condition, ready to take on the heat.

From tires to the engine, inspect every component of your vehicle and decide if it’s good to go or needs service. Here are some tips to make sure your vehicle is ready to hit the road this summer:

Tires - Consider the climate change when traveling between states. High temperatures can damage your tires or even cause blowouts. Monitor your tire pressure and tread depts frequently to ensure your tires are in good shape, along with obvious signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, sidewall damage, and uneven wear. 

Oil and Oil Filter - Extreme temperatures accelerate the breakdown of oil. When the oil breaks down, it is less effective at lubricating engine components, which can lead to costly engine damage, overheating, and a potential breakdown. 

Cooling System - It is incredibly important to ensure your vehicle has an adequate about of antifreeze and the antifreeze-to-water ratio is correct. You should also schedule an engine washout to rid your engine of any potential debris that spring may have brought with it. This should be done once a year to keep your engine from overheating and your air conditioning running all summer. 

Battery - Extreme heat can cause accelerated corrosion, weakening your battery’s voltage. You can use a battery cleaner to neutralize the acid buildup and reduce the damage done by corrosion. You should check your battery at least twice a year!

Hoses and Belts - Cold weather can do some real damage to your hoses and belts, so inspect them for cracks, punctures, and other damage to prevent any summertime leaks. Some hoses, such as coolant hoses, break down from the inside out. Squeeze these hoses. If they feel spongy, it’s time to replace them. 

Schedule your Summer PM at Southwest International! Click here to schedule your appointment today.