How Summer Heat Affects Your Car or Truck and How to Avoid Damage

Summer has just begun and already an intense “heat dome” is expected to affect more than half the US population this week. And, as the mercury rises, your car or truck faces a host of challenges. Because the extreme heat doesn’t just affect us mere mortals; it can also affect your car, truck, or jeep. In fact, everything from your battery to your tires are affected by the heat. And understanding how summer heat impacts your vehicle and taking preventive measures can help you avoid breakdowns and costly repairs.

So, in this blog, the experts at Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive  in Downtown Wichita look at the common issues your vehicle experiences during the summer heat and how to mitigate them.

1. Battery Stress

Impact:

• • High temperatures can accelerate the chemical reaction inside your battery. And this can cause it to overcharge.
  • Excessive heat can also lead to the evaporation of the battery fluid, causing corrosion of the internal plates.

Prevention:

• • Regularly check the battery fluid level and top it off with distilled water if necessary.
  • Ensure the battery is securely mounted to minimize vibrations.
  • Clean any corrosion from the battery terminals and connections.

2. Tire Pressure Fluctuations

Impact:

• • Heat causes the air inside your tires to expand. And this leads to over-inflation.
  • Over-inflated tires can result in uneven wear, decreased traction, and an increased risk of blowouts.

Prevention:

• • Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.
  • Inflate your tires to the manufacturer-recommended pressure, adjusting for the heat if necessary.
  • Inspect tires for any signs of wear or damage. Also, rotate them according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

3. Cooling System Overload

Impact:

• • The cooling system works harder to keep the engine at an optimal temperature.
  • Overheating can cause engine parts to warp or crack, leading to serious damage.

Prevention:

• • Ensure the coolant is at the proper level. Also, replace it according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
  • Check the radiator, hoses, and water pump for leaks or damage.
  • Consider having your cooling system flushed and refilled to maintain its efficiency.

4. Oil and Lubrication Breakdown

Impact:

• • High temperatures can cause engine oil to thin out. And this can reduce its ability to lubricate and protect engine components.
  • This can lead to increased friction, overheating, and premature wear.

Prevention:

• • Regularly check the oil level and condition.
  • Schedule regular oil changes with Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive. (And consider more frequent changes in hotter climates).
  • Use high-quality oil and consider synthetic options that perform better under extreme conditions.

5. Air Conditioning System Strain

Impact:

• • The air conditioning system works overtime in the summer. And this can lead to potential wear and tear.
  • A malfunctioning A/C system not only affects comfort but can also impact fuel efficiency.

Prevention:

• • Check the refrigerant level and top off if necessary.
  • Have the A/C system inspected by the professionals at Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive to ensure all components are functioning properly.
  • Clean or replace the cabin air filter to improve airflow and system efficiency.

6. Fuel System Issues

Impact:

• • Heat can cause gasoline to evaporate more quickly. And this can lead to potential vapor lock in older vehicles.
  • High temperatures can also cause fuel lines to become more brittle and prone to cracking.

Prevention:

• • Keep your gas tank at least half full to reduce the chance of evaporation and vapor lock.
  • Inspect fuel lines for any signs of wear or damage.
  • Use a fuel system cleaner to keep the fuel injectors and intake valves clean.

The Summer Heat Can be Tough on Your Car, Truck, or Jeep. But Tracy’s Cares and Can Help.

Regular maintenance at Downtown Wichita’s Tracy’s Tire Pros, along with a few preventive measures, can ensure that your car or truck runs smoothly throughout the season. Because by staying proactive, you can avoid heat-related damage and enjoy a trouble-free summer on the road. And, as always, Tracy’s Tire Pros and Automotive is here to help.

Tracy’s Tire Pros cares about our Wichita community and is ready to help with all your car or truck care needs in Wichita and Goddard: West Maple Street auto care and auto repair, East First Street N. and West 21st Street N.

Tracy’s Automotive is a proud dealer for Jasper Engines and Vogue Performance Exhaust systems.

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