Media post: 6 Reasons Summer Weather Is Ruining Your Car — And What You Can Do About It Today
Temperatures across the globe are sweltering this summer, with heat waves across Europe and extreme temperatures spanning from the western U.S. all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. And while extreme heat can be hard on your body, it can also be hard on your vehicle—both internally and externally.
Fortunately, awareness of prolonged heat damage combined with a little preventive maintenance can help prevent expensive repairs. Here are six ways summer weather can ruin your car — and what to do about it today.
1. Your Battery Is Working Harder
When high temperatures take hold, it accelerates chemical reactions in your car’s battery. That can cause your battery to degrade or fail faster than it would otherwise. Signs that might indicate battery failure include slow engine cranking, dim headlights, or corrosion on the terminals. If your battery is more than 3 years old, heat can be the thing that pushes it over the edge.
There are ways to extend your battery life, however. Keep terminals clean, ensure your battery remains securely mounted since vibration increases wear, and have it tested regularly.
2. Tire Pressure Changes Faster Than You Think
Did you know that for every 10°F increase, your tire pressure can rise by about 1 psi? That might not seem like much, but tire overinflation reduces traction and increases the risk of a blowout, which is the last thing you want when you’re on that summer road trip or a long drive across the country. Tire blowouts are also more likely when you have worn or underinflated tires.
Check your tire pressure at least once a month and always before long trips. The best time of day to check the pressure is in the morning, when temps are cooler, so you have a more accurate reading. Always inflate tires to your manufacturer’s recommended psi. If you’re going on a road trip, consider keeping a portable tire inflator in your car, just in case.
3. Your Engine Is More Likely to Overheat
Your engine already generates a ton of heat, and in hot temperatures your cooling system has to work even harder to keep up. That’s why low coolant levels, a failing radiator or a worn water pump can quickly lead to engine overheating. Other warning signs include a rising temperature gauge, steam coming from under the hood or a sweet smell from leaking coolant.
If you notice any of these, pull over as soon as it’s safe to do so. Continuing to drive with an overheated engine can cause severe damage to your car. Fortunately, you can prevent these issues by regularly checking coolant levels and scheduling maintenance before a trip.
4. UV Rays Damage More Than Paint
The glaring sunlight that beats down on your hood, dashboard, and seats does more than just make your vehicle exceptionally hot. It can literally deteriorate your car’s interior and exterior. Over time, your dashboard can crack and interior upholstery may fade. You also might notice plastic trim in your vehicle getting brittle. Prolonged UV exposure also can lead to oxidation of your car’s exterior paint, making your vehicle look older than it is.
To protect your car, park in shaded areas when possible, use a windshield sunshade, and consider applying protective coatings to both the exterior and interior.
5. Your Air Conditioning Works Overtime
You know the drill. It’s 100 degrees outside, and it’s not much cooler in your vehicle, so you blast the AC and sometimes it takes awhile to cool you down. Just like your home’s AC, your car’s system has to work harder to cool down when outside temperatures are hot. This constant use can lead to low refrigerant, clogged cabin filters, or worn components, which in turn, reduce cooling performance.
If your AC isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, takes longer to cool the cabin, or gives off unusual odors, it may need service. Preventive maintenance before summer — like replacing the cabin air filter and checking refrigerant levels — can keep your system running efficiently.
6. Fluids Break Down Faster
Heat speeds up the breakdown of, well, everything in your car. That includes all the fluids your car needs to run. Engine oil can thin out, reducing its ability to lubricate and protect. Coolant may evaporate or lose effectiveness, while brake fluid can absorb moisture and degrade under high temperatures. Even windshield washer fluid becomes more important in summer, especially with dust, bugs, and road debris. To keep everything humming along, check fluid levels regularly, and follow your vehicle’s recommended service intervals.
Extreme heat can take a serious toll on your vehicle, but most issues are preventable with routine care. By checking your battery, tires, fluids and cooling system, you can reduce the risk of breakdowns and extend the life of your car. And, from an auto insurance perspective, avoiding heat-related damage can also help you steer clear of unexpected claims. Whether you’re shopping for auto insurance or looking for cheap car insuranceoptions, keeping your vehicle in good condition is one of the smartest ways to protect both your car and your wallet.
