This content is sponsored by Jiffy Lube. It’s a nice summer day. You’re about to leave the house to go…
This content is sponsored by Jiffy Lube .
It’s a nice summer day. You’re about to leave the house to go on vacation. You double check you have your sunscreen, sunglasses, and bathing suit, but have you checked your car? Regular summer maintenance will keep your car in great condition so you’re ready for your next vacation. Here are eight car maintenance tips for smooth summer travel.
Get an oil change
Extreme weather, hot or cold, puts more demand on your oil. Car oil keeps car parts lubricated and protected from wear and tear. An oil change is the simplest thing you can do to keep your car protected.
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Getty Images/iStockphoto/smiguli
Check car fluids
C ar fluids are more likely to evaporate in the summer. Pay close attention to coolant and other fluid levels to keep your car engine from overheating.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto/Milan Krasula)
Getty Images/iStockphoto/Milan Krasula
Replace windshield wipers
Don’t overlook your windshield wipers when doing summer maintenance. Wipers can dry up and crack in the heat. Stay prepared for unexpected summer storms by changing your wipers once every six months.
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Getty Images/iStockphoto/humonia
Check for overinflated tires
As the temperature rises, so does tire pressure making your tires susceptible to damage from potholes and other road debris.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto/Koonsiri Boonnak)
Getty Images/iStockphoto/Koonsiri Boonnak
Check you car AC
Don’t get stuck in summer heat with bad AC. If you notice any problems, an expert technician can get your AC ready for your summer trips.
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Getty Images/iStockphoto/simpson33
Test your car battery
Frequent heat spells can cause car battery fluid to evaporate, making its life shorter. Make sure your battery is in good health by regularly checking for any corrosion and testing its electrical levels. You can purchase an inexpensive multimeter online and test your battery at home.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto/Somsak Saeueng)
Getty Images/iStockphoto/Somsak Saeueng
Inspect brakes
The downside of summer vacation is that everyone is on vacation. It’s important your brakes are functioning properly, especially with high traffic levels during the summer. Get a brake inspection if you hear grinding noises, feel your car vibrate or notice any other inconsistencies when braking.
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(Getty Images/iStockphoto/Burcak Gozcu)
Getty Images/iStockphoto/Burcak Gozcu
Don’t wash your car in direct sun
Don’t torture yourself by washing your car in direct sunlight. Spraying cold water onto a hot windshield can crack your windshield. Plan car washing for before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. when the sun isn’t directly overhead.
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Getty Images/iStockphoto/sutteerug