Summer can be tough on cars, especially during high temperatures when heat can destroy batteries and stress the cooling system and tires. As a precaution, these vehicle components should be checked periodically during summer to help avoid breakdowns and car problems.
Excessive heat and overcharging shorten the life of a battery. Heat causes battery fluid to evaporate, which then damages the internal structure of the battery. A malfunctioning component in the charging system, usually the voltage regulator, allows too high a charging rate, which will eventually destroy a battery. your car’s battery is the type that needs to be topped off, check it often, especially in hot weather and add distilled water if necessary
The cooling system also works harder during hot temperatures to prevent overheating of the engine. To keep the cooling system working effectively, the coolant and distilled water mixture for a vehicle’s radiator should be 50:50. Remember to never open a hot radiator cap when checking the coolant level in the reservoir. As a rule of thumb, the coolant should be changed annually on most vehicles.
Tires also need special care in warmer weather as high temperatures put added stress on them. Summer heat will cause the pressure within a tire to rise, therefore, it’s important to check the pressure when tires are cold.
JK Volvo is located at 1587 East Walnut in Pasadena. You can reach JK Volvo at (626) 792-2240. You can visit them at www.jkvolvospecialists.com.
