Prepare your car for the summer
Summer beckons with road trips, beach days, and adventures under the warm sun. But before you hit the road with air conditioning on and the music up, it’s wise to give your car a once-over to ensure a smooth and safe journey.
Here’s a helpful guide to get your car summer-ready:
Beat the Heat
- Coolant Check: Your car’s cooling system is vital in summer. Check the coolant level and top it up if necessary, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for the coolant mix.
- Air Conditioning Service: A frosty A/C is a must-have for those sunny summer days. Schedule a service to ensure your air conditioning system is functioning optimally.
- Battery Blues: Hot weather can put a strain on your battery. Check the terminals for corrosion and get us to inspect the battery’s health, especially if it’s nearing its lifespan. All of our branches have equipment to test your battery for efficiency.
Tyre Time
- Pressure Up: Fluctuating temperatures can affect tyre pressure. Regularly check your tyre pressure, including the spare, and inflate them to the recommended PSI as indicated on the sticker inside your driver’s door.
- Tread Talk: Don’t wait for a flat tyre to ruin your summer fun. Inspect your tyres for any cracks, bulges, or uneven wear. Ensure the tread depth is within the legal limit for safe driving.(legal limit 1.6mm is but we recommend fitting new tyres at 3mm for safety reasons) – check out this video from our friends at Continental Tyres https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-V88FuTdJo
Safety First
- Lighten Up: Check all your car’s lights, including headlights, rear lights including brake lights, and indicators. Faulty lights can pose a safety risk at any time.
- Wiper Check: Don’t underestimate the importance of good wiper blades. Replace worn-out wipers to ensure optimal visibility during summer downpours. And don’t forget to ensure your wiper water reservoir is topped up.
- Emergency Essentials: Review your emergency kit and restock any expired items. Consider including a torch, jump leads, a first-aid kit, and a water bottle in case of unforeseen situations.
Sun Smarts
- Sunshade Saviour: Invest in a windscreen sunshade to keep the car’s interior cool when parked in the sun. This will prevent scorching seats and a stifling environment when you return to your vehicle.
- Cleaning Crew: Give your car a thorough wash to remove winter grime, salt, and built-up dirt. Regular washes will help protect your car’s paint job from the summer sun’s harsh rays.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your car is ready to embrace the sunny season. With a well-maintained vehicle, you can focus on creating happy summer memories on the road!
We are specialists in all aspects of vehicle repair and maintenance so we can help you with these summer checks; contact us at any of our branches for help, advice or to book your car in for a safety check.
To find your local branch, check here, https://www.treadfirst.co.uk/branches/
For reservations: https://www.treadfirst.co.uk/car-servicing-repair/air-conditioning/
