Winter has passed and temperatures are now approaching record highs and no relief in sight, every car owner must consider the damaging effect that the heat can have on a poorly serviced vehicle. The Factory Certified Technicians at Mike Davidson Ford have put together this checklist that can save any driver time, money, and headaches this summer driving season.

The obvious first step is to check the tire pressure. As the weather changes the air pressure in the tires changes. Improper tire inflation affects ride smoothness and safety; remember that an over-inflated tire is just as bad as an under-inflated tire. It’s easy to forget to inflate the spare tire and check that the roadside tools (jack, lug-wrench, and wheel lock if necessary) are working properly.

Next make sure all of the fluids are topped off including radiator coolant, engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and wiper fluid. Make sure to pay special attention to the HOT and COLD zones on the dipsticks and only fill to the correct line. There is no benefit to overfilling your fluids

Check that the battery is fully charged and the battery terminals are free of corrosion. Scorching summer heat can kill a car battery in no time and summertime humidity will accelerate build-up on the battery terminals.

People often ignore shoddy windshield wipers until it is to late and they are in an unsafe driving condition. They should be free of cracks and the steel hooks should be clear of the windsheild surface. A replacement set of wiper blades costs around $20 and can really take the stress out of summer driving.

Once that is all complete check the serpentine belts for fissures and tightness. A cyclical squeaking is the first warning sign of impending belt failure. This belt typically runs the A/C compressor, alternator, and water pump so keeping a close watch on it can be the difference between a good running car and disaster.

If these tasks seem dauntings bring your car to Mike Davidson Ford’s Service Department. Don’t trust amatuer mechanics. With their well-equipped shops, OEM parts and the factory certified technicians, Mike Davidson Ford can insure a fun and trouble-free summer vacation. There are many possible pitfalls involved with summer driving, but with proper maintainance car trouble doesn’t have to be one of them.

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