AutoGlossy

How to Summer-ize Your Car

We go to great lengths to make sure our vehicles are ready for winter. Who wants to get stuck in sub-zero degree weather with a stalled car?

But what about during the summer? Believe it or not, the heat takes its toll on your car, too, so it’s important to keep your car serviced.

Periodic maintenance on your car will save you tremendous hassle in the long run. Your vehicle should last longer and command a higher resale price, too! I made it a point to get my car serviced according to the dealer’s schedule, and when I traded it in, I got far more than I expected due to the stellar condition of the engine.

Now I know this isn’t bedtime reading, but the owner’s manual can be your best friend – assuming you read it! At least take a look-through periodically. How about while you’re waiting to get your oil changed?

Follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedules. This could save you a major breakdown.

Have the air conditioning system looked over by a qualified technician. A check up here can save you a huge bill later.

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. Prevent this problem by making sure the cooling system is flushed and refilled as recommended.

Have your car’s belts, clamps, and hoses checked by a technician. This only takes a few minutes and is usually inexpensive.

Change your oil and oil filter every 3,000 miles or four times a year.

Replace air and fuel filters as recommended.

Get plenty of windshield washer solvent – we have a tendency to use a lot of this in the winter, so your fluids may be low.

Tires should be rotated every 5000 miles or so.

Check the spare tire to make sure it’s inflated properly. Also, make sure you have a jack along with it!

Transmission troubles equal money troubles equal emotional troubles! Have your transmission serviced periodically, and prevent big-time repair bills.

If you notice that your brakes are less efficient, get them checked out right away.

Have your battery checked periodically to see how much life it has left!

Inspect all lights and bulbs to make sure they’re working.

Carry a first aid kit, flares, jumper cables, a flashlight, and a cell phone.

There you go – a simple list to keep your car in great running shape. Remember, your car needs to be maintained and checked over even in the summer.

Taking care of your car takes only a few minutes each month, and pays you big dividends for the life of your vehicle!

Contributed by TheCarSites.com. Please visit http://www.TheCarSites.com for car articles and auto industry news.

Resources: Morocco Property Ayala Land Property For Sale Hungary New Car Tapas Catering

Related articles:

Buying Skidder Tire Chains
Anyone involved in the forestry or logging business knows a thing or two about skidder tire chains. Skidders, those heavy, four-wheel tractors used to haul logs - especially over rugged terrain, are a
2005-09-17 - by Elizabeth Morgan

A Look at Automatic Tire Chains
With technology always advancing, it is no wonder that automatic tire chains have made their way into the tire chain market. These tire chains take away the pain of attaching tire chains in wintry or
2005-09-17 - by Elizabeth Morgan

Thinking About Renting Tire Chains?
For anyone wanting to make a one-time trip to a cold locale, they may find themselves in need of tire chains. For warmer-weathered tourists, this may come as a brand new tool, and some may want to loo
2005-09-17 - by Elizabeth Morgan

An Introduction to Trailer Hitches
Pickup trucks and SUVs with trailer hitches have a wide range of uses. They can pull boats, campers, cargo trailers and a number of other items. There are several types of trailer hitches. Most picku
2005-09-17 - by Elizabeth Morgan

Truck Trailer Wind Stream Reduction Using Acoustic Transducers
Trucking companies are at a cross roads, fuel costs are $3.00 per gallon for diesel in many places. This puts a huge stress on the transportation sector and that stress can be felt in increased costs
2005-09-17 - by Lance Winslow