Has your car ever overheated in the summer leaving you stranded on the side of the road? Not fun, right? You probably won’t like hearing this but that vehicle break down probably could have been avoided. Like winter, summer temperatures are harsh on vehicle engines. Without regular maintenance, your vehicle has a greater chance of succumbing to the perils of high temperatures. By doing these three things, you can avoid the most common summer car care problems.

1. Maintain the cooling system. When was the last time you replaced the coolant? This fluid is vital to keeping your car’s engine (which operates at temperatures between 195 and 200 degree Fahrenheit) from overheating. When it gets old, it’s not able to protect the various engine components, like the radiator and water pump, and can lead to engine overheating. Old, worn belts and hoses also pose a risk to engine overheating. To protect your car engine, change the oil and coolant on a regular schedule. Also, take the time to periodically inspect the condition of hoses and belts so you can replace them before they break. If you don’t know what to look for when it comes to the belts and hoses, don’t worry. When you bring your vehicle to Byram, NJ’s, Geller’s Automotive, we will inspect them for you and will let you know if they need to be replaced.
2. Take care of your car’s battery: Car batteries are just as likely to fail in the summer as they are in the winter. If your vehicle’s battery is approaching 4 years old, have it tested. We can do that service for you and will let you know if you need a new battery. It’s also a good idea to make sure the battery cables and terminals are clean. (Click here for information on how to maintain your battery)
3. Don’t neglect your car tires: It is recommended that car owners check the air pressure in their tires once a month. Hot temperatures cause the air to expand so check first thing in the morning before the vehicle is driven. It’s not safe to drive on tires that are under or over-inflated. Blowouts can occur, not to mention that you’ll be wasting money on gas and you’ll have to replace your car tires before you should. While checking the air pressure, take a look at the condition of the tires. Is there enough tread on the tires? Are they wearing evenly? Do they have any bulges? Are there any cracks in the tires? These are all signs that the tires need to be replaced. When it comes time for new tires, let us know. We can help you select the right tires for your vehicle and budget. We can also install them for you.

If you want to avoid these common summer car care problems, make a commitment to regular maintenance. Click here to schedule your summer car care maintenance with Geller’s Automotive in Byram, New Jersey.