Nothing derails a summer road trip faster than a breakdown on the side of the highway with the AC blowing hot and the engine steaming. Before you hit the open road, it’s crucial to give your vehicle the attention it deserves with some seasonal maintenance. At Promex Auto in Newport, NH, we believe that keeping your vehicle road-ready is more than just a task; it’s part of our commitment to your safety and comfort.
In this guide, we’ll cover five essential summer car maintenance tips every driver should know. Whether you’re traveling through the Lake Sunapee region or planning a long-distance trip, this checklist will help you enjoy the journey without the stress.
Why Summer Car Maintenance Matters
Summer heat can push your vehicle’s components to their limits. From increased engine temperatures to added strain on your tires and battery, the warm months present unique challenges. Following a summer car maintenance checklist is one of the best ways to prevent unexpected breakdowns, save money on repairs, and keep your family safe on the road.
We understand the importance of preventive care. Our team treats every vehicle like it’s our own because earning your trust with honest, high-quality repairs is what we’re all about.
1. Battery Checks: Don’t Let the Heat Drain Your Power
Summer heat accelerates chemical reactions inside your battery, which can shorten its lifespan significantly. A weak battery may still start your car in mild temperatures but leave you stranded at a rest stop in 90-degree weather.
Signs Your Battery Might Be Failing:
- Slow engine crank: If your engine takes longer than usual to turn over when starting, it could mean your battery is struggling to supply enough power, especially after sitting overnight.
- Dimming headlights: When your battery is weak, it may not be able to fully power all of your vehicle’s electrical systems. If your headlights dim when you start your car or when other accessories are turned on, your battery may be near the end of its life.
- Corroded terminals: White, blue, or greenish powdery buildup on the battery terminals can interfere with the battery’s ability to deliver power to your vehicle. Corrosion also increases electrical resistance, which can affect performance and reliability.
- Electrical issues like flickering interior lights: If your dashboard, dome lights, or infotainment system flicker or reset unexpectedly, it could be a sign that your battery is not maintaining a stable voltage. This is especially concerning if multiple accessories malfunction at once.
We’ll test your battery’s health and inspect the terminals for corrosion. We use professional diagnostic equipment to ensure your battery is road-trip ready. If it’s nearing the end of its life, we’ll recommend a quality replacement.
Pro tip: Schedule your battery check before you leave town. Book your appointment today.
2. Check Tire Pressure and Tread for Safe Travels
Your tires are your only contact with the road, and their condition can make or break your road trip. As temperatures rise, so does your tire pressure by about 1 PSI for every 10°F increase in temperature.
How to Check Your Tire Pressure Before a Road Trip
- Start with cool tires: Check tire pressure when the vehicle has been parked for several hours or early in the morning.
- Find the recommended PSI: Look inside your driver’s door jamb or in your owner’s manual.
- Use a pressure gauge: Remove the valve cap, press the gauge onto the valve stem, and get your reading.
- Adjust the pressure: Inflate or deflate as needed to match the recommended level.
- Check the spare: Many people forget this, but it’s crucial in case of emergencies.
Pro tip: Keep a digital pressure gauge in your glove box for quick checks on the go!
Summer Tire Maintenance Checklist:
- Check air pressure when tires are cool: Tire pressure readings can be inaccurate if the tires are warm from driving.
- Inflate to the manufacturer-recommended PSI: Follow the guidelines in your vehicle manual or on the door sticker.
- Look for uneven tread wear or cracks: These could indicate alignment issues or potential blowouts.
- Don’t forget the spare! Ensure it’s properly inflated and ready if needed.
If your tires are underinflated, they’ll run hotter and wear faster. If overinflated, they lose traction, especially during summer storms. At Promex Auto in Newport, NH, we not only inspect and rotate tires but also offer tire sales and installation, including top-quality brands. Our Hunter alignment machine ensures your wheels are precisely aligned to prevent premature wear and improve fuel economy.
3. Keep Your Cool with a Coolant System Check
Your engine runs hot in the summer, and your cooling system is its first line of defense. Coolant (or antifreeze) absorbs engine heat and transfers it away to keep temperatures in check. Low or contaminated coolant can quickly lead to overheating and serious engine damage.
What We Check During a Coolant System Inspection:
- Coolant level and quality: We inspect whether your coolant is at the proper level and in good condition. If it’s dirty, rusty, or low, it won’t protect your engine from overheating.
- Radiator and hoses: Cracks, leaks, and worn-out hoses are common issues we look for. Any damage here can quickly lead to coolant loss and engine overheating.
- Cooling fan function: The fan helps regulate engine temperature, especially in traffic. We ensure it kicks on when needed and runs properly.
- Thermostat performance: If your thermostat sticks closed, coolant can’t circulate, resulting in overheating. We’ll test it to make sure it’s working as it should.
If you’ve noticed puddles under your car or your temperature gauge creeping up, don’t wait. We offer coolant flushes and leak repairs to keep your system in top shape. We use equipment like our evap leak machine to pinpoint problems fast.
4. Stay on Schedule with Oil Changes
While oil changes are a year-round necessity, they’re even more critical in the summer when your engine runs hotter. Heat causes oil to thin, reducing its ability to lubricate vital components. If your oil is old or low, it can’t protect your engine properly, especially during high-speed highway driving.
Summer Oil Service Tips:
- Use the right oil type: Hot summer temps can break down oil faster. We’ll help you choose between conventional and synthetic based on your vehicle’s needs and your driving style.
- Stick to your maintenance schedule: Your owner’s manual provides the best oil change intervals. Regular oil changes help prevent sludge buildup and engine wear.
- Pay attention to warning lights: If the oil light pops up on your dashboard, it’s not something to ignore. It could signal low oil pressure or levels, both critical issues in summer heat.
At Promex Auto in Newport, NH, we carry both conventional and synthetic oils, and our mechanics will help you choose what’s best for your car and driving habits. Our team doesn’t just do oil changes; we inspect for leaks and wear signs that could become problems down the road.
5. Don’t Sweat It: Inspect Your A/C System
Your vehicle’s air conditioning system is your best friend during summer road trips. But if it’s blowing warm air or not working efficiently, it could be due to a low refrigerant level, a clogged filter, or even a failing compressor.
A/C Service at Promex Auto Includes:
- Refrigerant check and recharge: We inspect the refrigerant level and top it off if needed so your system stays cold and efficient.
- Belt and hose inspection: Worn belts or leaky hoses can limit A/C performance or cause failure. We make sure everything is tight and in good shape.
- Compressor testing: The compressor is the heart of your A/C system. We test its function to ensure it’s cycling properly and not on the verge of failing.
- Cabin air filter replacement: A clogged filter can restrict airflow and reduce cooling power. We’ll replace it so your system breathes freely and your cabin stays cool.
We want your ride to be as comfortable as it is safe. And with our shop’s snap-on diagnostic tools, we get to the root of the issue fast. Schedule your summer A/C tune-up so you can cruise with confidence even during July’s heat waves.
Bonus Tip: BG Services for Ultimate Protection
For drivers who want to go the extra mile in protecting their vehicle, our BG fluid services offer high-quality maintenance solutions that help your car perform better and last longer, especially under the stress of summer heat and long drives.
Recommended BG Services:
- Coolant flush: Keeps your engine cool and prevents overheating or corrosion in the cooling system.
- Brake system flush: Removes old, moisture-contaminated fluid to ensure safe and responsive braking.
- Power steering and fuel induction services: Improve handling, fuel economy, and engine efficiency, ideal before a road trip.
Including BG services as part of your summer car care helps extend the life of critical systems and gives you peace of mind behind the wheel.
FAQs: Summer Car Maintenance
Q1: How often should I check my tire pressure in the summer?
A: At least once a month and before any long trip. Temperature swings affect pressure, so regular checks can help avoid blowouts.
Q2: Is synthetic oil better for summer driving?
A: Yes. Synthetic oil withstands higher temperatures and is ideal for long road trips. It offers better protection and longer intervals between changes.
Q3: Why does my car battery die faster in hot weather?
A: Heat causes the battery fluid to evaporate, damaging internal components. This weakens the battery and increases the risk of failure.
Q4: Can I drive with low coolant in the summer?
A: Driving with low coolant can lead to overheating and engine damage. If your level is low, get it checked and topped off before driving.
Get Road Trip Ready in Newport, NH – Schedule Your Summer Maintenance Today
Don’t let preventable car trouble ruin your summer adventure. Our team is ready to help you hit the road with confidence. From full inspections to specialty services like wheel alignments and BG fluid flushes, we’ve got your back.
Give us a call at 603-863-2704 or stop by our shop at 31 Elm St, Newport, NH, to schedule your pre-road trip maintenance.
Whether you’re heading to the lake, the mountains, or beyond, Promex Auto is your trusted local partner for honest, high-quality auto repair in Newport, NH.
