Essential Summer Car Care Tips In Canada!
Essential Summer Car Care Tips In Canada!
Posted on July 11, 2024
Service Department Parts Department Myers Tire Centre
As the temperature rises in Ottawa, Ontario, so does the importance of ensuring your vehicle is equipped to handle the heat. With long drives to Gatineau Park or weekend trips to the Rideau Canal, your car needs to be in top shape to tackle both the bustling city streets and tranquil country roads. Our guide below offers expert car care tips for summers that will help you understand the benefits of regular vehicle maintenance and enhance your driving experience.
Monitor Your Tire Pressure
Checking your tire pressure is crucial as fluctuating temperatures can cause changes in inflation. During hot summers, under-inflated tires can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and even tire failure. Ensure you check the pressure early in the morning before the day heats up for the most accurate readings. Maintaining proper tire pressure also helps prevent unnecessary wear and ensures you get the best performance from your vehicle.
Additionally, correct tire pressure ensures better handling and braking, which can be critical during sudden summer thunderstorms or on busy highways during holiday weekends. Regular monitoring can also extend the lifespan of your tires, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
Keep Your Cooling System in Check
Your car's cooling system prevents the engine from overheating, which is vital during summer. Check the coolant level on a regular basis and look for signs of leaks, especially around the hoses and the radiator. If you’re unsure, consider a coolant system service at Myers Auto Group to ensure your engine stays cool, even on the hottest days.
It’s also a good idea to inspect the radiator cap for any signs of wear— a faulty cap can cause coolant loss, leading to overheating and severe engine damage. Ensuring your cooling system is functioning properly will help you to avoid major repairs and keep your engine running efficiently throughout the season.
Optimize Your Air Conditioning
Nothing is more critical in the summer than a functional air conditioning system. If you notice your A/C isn't cooling the cabin efficiently, it could be a sign of a freon leak or an issue with the compressor. Regular checks for your air condition repair needs can save you from a sweltering drive. Remember to set your A/C to "interior circulation" to maintain cooler temperatures inside your vehicle without overworking the system.
If you're planning a longer trip, consider an A/C system service before departure to ensure it’s in optimal condition, helping you stay cool and focused on the road. Maintaining your air conditioning not only enhances comfort but also improves your fuel efficiency by reducing the need to lower windows, which increases aerodynamic drag.
Replace Windshield Wipers
After the harsh Ottawa winter, your windshield wipers might need some attention. Inspect them often for wear and tear such as cracks or stiffness. Efficient wipers are essential to combat the summer rainstorms that can decrease visibility dramatically. Replacing old wipers can improve windshield contact and clear your view significantly, enhancing safety during sudden downpours.
New wipers are an affordable upgrade that can make a big difference in adverse weather, ensuring you maintain good visibility during those frequent summer showers. Plus, proper visibility is key to safe driving, helping you to react more quickly to road conditions and other drivers.
Manage Engine Fluids
Engine fluids are an essential aspect of your vehicle. Before you embark on your summer adventures, check your oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. An oil change is often needed after the winter months as it helps your engine run smoothly and efficiently. Low or dirty fluids can lead to poorer performance and higher fuel consumption, which are both undesirable during peak travel season.
Additionally, check your brake fluid, which can absorb moisture and decrease braking effectiveness—a critical safety check before any summer road trips. Ensuring these fluids are at the right levels can prevent engine stress and potential breakdowns during long summer drives.
Clean or Change Air Filters
Your car’s air filters can clog up with dust and pollen during the summer. A clean air filter improves airflow, increases efficiency, and reduces emissions. If you haven’t checked your cabin and engine air filters recently, now might be a good time. A fresh filter can also prevent allergens from circulating within your car, ensuring a more pleasant and healthier environment inside.
Especially if you suffer from allergies, a clean cabin air filter can be a breath of fresh air during pollen season, making your car a safe haven from outdoor allergens. Regular replacement of air filters can also help your engine and A/C system operate at peak efficiency, ensuring your vehicle remains comfortable and responsive.
Protect Your Vehicle’s Interior
The sun’s UV rays can damage the interior of your car, causing upholstery and dashboards to fade. Use a sunshade to protect your interior when parked, and consider applying a UV protectant to your dashboard and seats. Regular vacuuming and dusting inside the car can also keep the interior fresh and free from debris and stains.
Additionally, consider tinting your windows, which not only helps reduce the interior temperature but also protects your skin and eyes from UV exposure during long drives. This window treatment can significantly enhance your comfort and protect your car’s interior from the long-term effects of sun exposure, like cracking and fading of the dashboard and seats.
Connect with Myers Auto Group
At Myers Auto Group in Ottawa, we understand how important it is to keep your car in pristine condition, especially during the Canadian summer months. Our team of experts is on hand to assist with any vehicle service in Ottawa, from routine check-ups to more specific issues like air condition repair and wheel alignment. Schedule a maintenance check today to ensure your vehicle is summer-ready.
*All pricing is based on Ontario MSRP and does not include taxes and fees. Dealer pricing may differ. Prices are subject to change anytime without notice.