Summer Tune Up Tips

By Author: Insurance Hunter
Total Articles: 15
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Summer is coming, and you’ve been getting your body into shape by throwing a few extra sit-ups into your workout routine – but what about your car? Surely your old reliable automobile requires a little bit of work before you cruise around town with the windows down all summer. The winter months can be tough on cars and people alike, so follow these helpful tips to give your car the summer tune-up it needs and you’ll be ready to hit the road and drive into the sunset every night of the summer.

Check tire pressure

Before you hit the road this summer you will want to check that your tires are inflated to optimal levels. Too little air reduces fuel economy, while too much air can increase the risk of a blowout. Check your tire pressure to make sure that your tires are inflated properly – doing so can save you some gas money and will actually allow you to navigate with greater reactivity in the event of an emergency.

Check tire tread

The ice, salt, snow, and sand that you conquered in the winter months may be gone but it left a mark on your tires. Winter driving conditions ...
... can be extremely demanding and your tire treads may be worn down after a long winter season. Make sure to check your tread before cruising this summer.

Cool it

Heat is a car’s worst enemy and is the number one cause of breakdowns. Before those scorcher days start rolling in make sure to check that your car’s cooling systems are functioning. Many cooling problems stem from poor airflow around the radiator; to improve airflow, remove any debris, leaves, or garbage in the radiator fins. It is also a good idea to check your radiator cap, as years of temperature changes can leave the cap hardened or cracked.

Check your gas cap

The gas cap is probably one of the simplest components of your car – what do you have to worry about, right? Nope. Despite being a simple component, the gas cap is crucial for engine performance. If the cap is not airtight, your car’s “check engine” light will be on, as the engine requires a vacuum to perform optimally.

Lights please

Check to make sure that your car’s headlights and taillights are fully functioning. Summer daylight hours can necessitate driving in sub-optimal lighting conditions and you can significantly minimize the chance of collision by having fully functioning brake lights and headlights.

Give your car a spa day

Okay, you shouldn’t actually give your car a spa day but you should spoil it a little. Summer is cruising season and nobody likes to cruise in a dingy, dirty, mud mobile. Visit a car wash or grab some soap and wax and do it yourself.

Summer is the time of year when driving is actually fun; take advantage of the sun by going on a road trip, driving to the lake, or just going for a spin. Just remember, winter is only a few months away.

For more information on auto insurance, maintenance tips and more, check out Insurance Hunter’s blog.

AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY:

Insurance Hunter is an online auto insurance quote provider who offers residents with free access to auto insurance quotes. Visit Insurance Hunter’s blog for more information.