Summer in Los Angeles can be equal parts glorious and miserable. Though the sun boosts serotonin and makes outdoor adventuring easy, it’s hot! Sometimes, it gets a little too hot, and your car feels the discomfort just as much as you do.
If you don’t pay special attention to your vehicle in the summer, it can overheat and suffer other issues that are expensive to fix. Fortunately, you can stay ahead of mechanical troubles by following these helpful car-care tips for summer in Los Angeles.
Use Sunshades in the Windows
Park your car in the shade whenever possible, and use sunshades in the windows if you have to park in the sun. Sunshades are simple and cheap, yet they work wonders for keeping your car’s interior temperature down. This protects your dashboard and upholstery from sun damage. Plus, it makes stepping into your car way more comfortable—say bye-bye to scalded thighs and burning air.
Check Your Tire Pressure
Temperature affects air pressure; lower temps decrease pressure, and higher temps increase pressure. Therefore, check your tire’s air pressure often throughout the summer, especially right after winter ends. If you don’t, you might drive on improperly inflated tires, which can lead to blowouts or decreased fuel efficiency.
Top Off All Fluids—Especially Coolant
Maintaining the proper fluid levels is important all year round, but especially during the sweltering summer months. Be sure to top off your engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant. Be extra vigilant about coolant, as this is the substance helping your engine maintain a safe temperature despite extreme heat.
Replace the Air Filter
Pollen, dust, and other airborne particles abound during the summer, and they can infiltrate your car’s engine and interior via shoddy or old air filters. If you get a new air filter, you upgrade protection for your engine and your cabin’s air quality.
Clean the Exterior Often
Cars get dirtier in the summer because of more dust and pollen in the air, as well as the fact that most people take long car trips during the hotter months. This is unavoidable, but it’s important to stay on top of cleaning. If you don’t, the aforementioned debris can scratch and rust your vehicle. Therefore, detail your car at home at least several times throughout the summer. Additionally, it’s recommended to get a protective wax coating to provide additional assurance.
Summer in Los Angeles can get brutally hot, but these helpful car-care tips will safeguard your vehicle from the consequences of heat. A little maintenance now will prevent a lot of headaches later, so don’t skimp on this care.
