Build It Up: Tips For Customizing Your Truck

Posted on: 3 March 2015

Car owners spend a lot of time winterizing their cars to prepare for snowy, icy, salty roads, but what about getting your car ready for summer? There are actually several steps car owners should take to make sure their cars are ready for the hot summer months that lie ahead. Here are five things you can do to keep your car in great shape for the summer.

Get Your Cooling System Flushed

One of the biggest nightmares in the summer months is having a car that overheats. You don't want to get stranded in a hot car on a sweltering day, especially not when the best way to fix an overheating car is to actually turn on your car's heat. Your automotive repair shop can flush and refill your cooling system to prevent overheating and to keep your car running smoothly all summer long.

Change Your Tires

If you invested in snow tires to get your car through the winter, you'll want to change them out before summer hits. This will preserve the treads so your snow tires perform at their best all winter long. Summer tread tires can serve your car well in the spring and summer, as it can keep a tight grip on the roads in wet or arid conditions. You can also opt for all-season tires if you decide that you don't want to change your tires twice every year.

Replenish Your Emergency Kit

Your roadside emergency kit should be replenished before the summer starts. Pack extra bottles of water and check the expiration dates on energy bars and other snacks. Add a few instant ice packs for injuries or to help stay cool in hot weather. This is also a good time to check the batteries in your flashlights and other emergency equipment.

Have Your Air Conditioner Inspected

Most automotive repair services providers will inspect your car's air conditioning system for you. From cleaning out the vents to checking and changing the belts, your technician should do a full inspection to ensure your system won't give out on a hot day. This can be done at the same time that you have your cooling system flushed.

Replace Your Fluids

Before you hit the road for the summer, be sure to have your car's fluids changed and replenished. An oil change at the start of the summer will keep your car running smoothly throughout the hot weather. Your brake fluid, coolant, windshield wiper fluid, and refrigerant should all be checked as well. Talk to a mechanic (such as one from Ericson Automotive) about inspecting and cleaning your car's battery. By removing corrosion and testing your battery's strength, you can reduce your chance of a frustrating breakdown this summer.

Use these five steps to get your car ready for drives to the beach, parks, and other summer attractions. You won't have to worry about whether or not your car will get you everywhere you need to go, and you'll be able to enjoy more of the great weather.