Summer Car Tips

With so many people saving money these days by driving to their vacation destination rather than flying, we thought it would help if we pointed out some ways of prolonging the life of your car, truck or SUV.

If you haven't had your car in for routine maintenance in the last few months, try and get it into the mechanics shop a week or so before you leave on your trip. (If you need a list of trusted mechs feel free to call us.) It's better to catch a problem now than at 9:00 pm somewhere in the middle of nowhere. Have your mechanic check the following:

Air Conditioning system. Nothing is worse than sitting in traffic in a car with A/C that doesn't work. Especially if it's sunny and 95, which as Murphy's law would have it, is the weather when your A/C decides to fail on you.

Cooling System. If you haven't had the cooling system of your car flushed recently, I recommend you do so. This will help prevent your car from overheating.

Do your belts and hoses show cracking or wear? If they do have them replaced.

Change your oil frequently. Most engines in new cars have longer oil change intervals than cars from a few years ago. Follow your manufacturers guidelines and make sure that you hang on to the receipts.

Check or replace your filters.

Check to make sure that your lights are functioning properly. Have someone confirm your blinkers are working.

Replace your windshield wipers. We recommend replacing your wipers 2 times a year… once before winter so you have a new set to get you through bad weather, and once in the spring to handle those rain storms.

Inspect your tires. Make sure that your tires are wearing evenly and that they do not need to be replaced.

After the mechanic gives your car a once-over, take the time to pack some backup items:

One gallon of 50% coolant to 50% water.
2 spare quarts or oil.
One Gallon of windshield washer fluid
A good flashlight with spare batteries
A disposable camera in case of accident or a good photo opportunity
A piece of carpet or a door mat, in case you have to kneel down on the ground in bad weather
Drinking water. People always get thirsty.
Sunblock and insect repellant.

These are just a few items that can make your life a littler better when out on the road this summer. And remember when driving long distances, take breaks ever couple of hours and stretch. Enjoy your summer!

For more advice, call Kimmer Transmission & Gear 303-693-1400.

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