Most drivers think winter is the hardest season on a vehicle, but summer heat and your vehicle can be an equally challenging combination. It’s not a real surprise to Akron, Ohio drivers that extreme temperatures put serious strain on critical systems, and you may know that breakdowns tend to spike during the hottest months of the year. Understanding why that happens, and what you can do about it. can save you a lot of frustration, money, and safety concerns.
How Summer Heat Stresses Your Battery
Summer heat and your vehicle’s battery are not a good pairing. Heat actually accelerates the chemical reactions inside a battery, which causes faster wear and shortens its overall lifespan. A battery that seems fine in cooler weather can fail quickly once temperatures climb. If your battery is more than 3 years old, it’s worth having it tested before the hottest stretch of the season hits. Many Akron drivers are surprised to learn that heat, not Ohio’s brutal cold weather, is often what finally pushes an aging battery over the edge.
Your Cooling System Works Overtime in Summer
The cooling system is one of the most stressed components during hot weather. It’s responsible for keeping your engine within a safe operating temperature range, and when outside temps are high, it has to work that much harder to do its job. Low coolant levels, a worn hose, or a failing thermostat can all lead to overheating. Summer heat and your vehicle’s cooling system require close attention this time of year. Check coolant levels regularly and look for any signs of leaks before they become bigger problems.
Tires and Fluids Feel the Heat, Too
Hot pavement combined with underinflated tires significantly increases the risk of a blowout. Heat causes the air inside your tires to expand, and if the pressure was already low, you’re heading toward trouble. Check your tire pressure at least once a month during summer, and always when the tires are cool for the most accurate reading. Other fluids also degrade faster in the heat. Engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake fluid all work harder when temperatures are elevated. Keeping up with your regular fluid checks is one of the simplest ways to avoid a breakdown.
Preparing Your Chevy for the Heat
The good news is that most summer-related breakdowns are preventable with some basic maintenance. A quick inspection of your battery, cooling system, tires, and fluid levels goes a long way toward keeping your Chevy running smoothly all season. Chevrolet’s certified service program is designed to help with exactly this kind of maintenance. Whether you drive a Silverado, an Equinox, a Trax, or any other model in the Chevy lineup, keeping up with seasonal service can help you avoid the inconvenience of an unexpected breakdown.
Visit VanDevere Chevrolet Before the Season Gets Too Hot
A little preparation now can prevent a much bigger headache later, especially during the peak heat of summer when repair shops tend to get busiest. If you live or work in the Akron, Ohio area and you’re not sure whether your vehicle is ready for the season, bring it in to us at VanDevere Chevrolet for a checkup. Our team is here to help keep you safe and your Chevy running at its best, no matter how hot it gets outside.
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