The hot summer months can be rough on your car. Regular maintenance each season will help keep it in tip top shape. If you followed the tips to winterize your car, now it’s time to get it ready for summer. Follow these 4 summer car care tips:

1. Replace your Windshield Wipers Winter weather can do a number on your wiper blades, so be sure to replace them with new ones.  Summer often brings sudden thunderstorms and torrential downpours. You’ll need windshield wipers that can do the job.

2. Check the Fluids Check your car’s motor oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid regularly. Check your oil and get it changed regularly based on the manufacturer recommendations and type of oil used.² To check and refill your windshield washer fluid, simply open the hood and locate the reservoir. In most cars, the reservoir is close to the base of the windshield. Engine coolant, also known as antifreeze, is one of the most important fluid levels to monitor because it prevents your engine from overheating.¹ Ask your automotive technician to make sure it’s at the proper level. Opening a radiator cap can be dangerous so be extremely careful if you choose to check your own engine coolant.

3. Maintain the Tires If you had snow tires on your car, be sure to replace them. Heavy snow tires make your car work harder than it needs to. In the summertime, switch to regular tires to save on fuel. Check the tire pressure before a long road trip and adjust if necessary. Consult your manual or the tire placard (usually located on the driver’s side pillar when you open the door). Look at the overall condition of your tires, paying close attention to worn tread, and don’t forget about your spare! The spare tire is no good to you if it’s not maintained. Get your tires rotated about every 6 months or 7,500 miles.³

4. Clean the Undercarriage Sand and salt that’s used to treat snowy roads can build up underneath your car, causing the metal to rust. If this buildup prevents air from ventilating, the engine and transmission can run hot. Clean the debris away with a hose.

Do you want to learn more car maintenance tips and tricks? Check out our blog or turn your passion into a career! At Porter and Chester Institute, we offer hands-on training in Automotive Technology. Find out if it’s the right career path for you with this infographic. With nine convenient locations across Connecticut and Massachusetts call (800) 870-6789 today to learn more.

¹http://www.autotrader.com/research/article/car-news/170070/hot-summer-car-care-tips.jsp
²http://business.time.com/2011/12/19/stop-changing-the-oil-every-3000-miles-already/
³https://www.cars.com/articles/2013/05/how-often-should-you-rotate-your-tires/