Proper maintenance is key to maintaining your vehicle before your next big summer road trip
By Cesare Manansala
Summer is here, and you know what that means: make way for that scorching Florida heat!
We Floridians are more than familiar with those uncomfortable and sometimes painful sensations when entering our vehicles on a hot summer day. A ghastly, overpowering wall of heat first greets us, followed by the burning sting of sitting on hot vinyl seats. We can’t wait to switch the AC on and let cool, refreshing air fill into our vehicle. But instead of that refreshing cool drop in temperature, hot air flows through. Some AC units do take a short while for the cooler air to flow. But if hot air still blows no matter how long you wait, there is something really wrong with your vehicle’s air conditioning unit. Of all the days for the AC to go out, too!
Not only is a defective air conditioner on a hot, humid day inconvenient, an overheating car can be physically dangerous and even lethal to some passengers, including small children, pets, and the elderly. Proper vehicle care during the summer—starting with a working air conditioning system—is essential for the comfort and safety of you and your passengers.
Hence, Kelly Ford offers the following valuable maintenance tips and practices to keep your car cool and effectively running, just in time for your next big summer road trip.
Air Conditioning and Cooling Systems
In order to keep your AC properly running before summer’s arrival, we recommend these preventative measures:
- Replacing the Cabin Air Filter – A dirty, clogged air filter can disrupt flow, making the AC unit working harder and delaying the release of cooler air. You or a professional can check the filter and remove dirt or debris that may cause clogs.
- Checking Refrigerant Leaks – Refrigerant leaks (typically a gas used in refrigeration or air conditioning units for heat and transferring absorption) caused by broken hoses or cracks in the compressor may affect the flow of cooler air. A professional service is recommended to check for refrigerant leaks or for system repair.
- Monitor Cooling Systems – As with refrigerant leaks, monitor your cooling system and ensure there are no leaks in its hoses or radiator.
To prevent your vehicle from overheating while parked, try parking in the shade, or use a windshield cover, or window tinting, to block the sun’s rays from entering inside.
Tires
Tires require full maintenance in the summer. Consider the following steps to ensure your tires’ safety and performance:
- Ideal Tire Pressure- The recommended tire pressure is typically between 30 and 35 psi (pounds per square inch). You can find the ideal psi on the driver’s door jamb sticker or in your vehicle manual.
- Inflation- Avoid both overinflating and underinflating your tires—either can lead to a rougher ride, uneven wear, potential damage, and reduced fuel efficiency.
- Fluctuations in Temperature- Much like in the wintertime (if you happen to be in colder climates), tire pressure can fluctuate due to the heat. Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly, especially in rising temperatures
- Rotation and Alignment- Tires require regular rotation every 5,000 to 7,500 miles to ensure proper, even wear. Periodic wheel alignments help prevent uneven tire wear and ensure proper handling for a safer, smoother ride.
Windshield Wipers
When it rains, it truly pours here in Florida. Always be sure to replace worn or cracked windshield wipers for clearer, better visibility during summer rainstorms.
Engine Oil
Periodic oil changes are especially required during the summer when road trips are more frequent. Check your oil regularly for optimal engine performance and enhanced protection.
Battery
Be sure to inspect your battery’s power before your next big summer road trip. Check your battery’s terminals thoroughly so that they are free of dirt and debris.
Brakes
Checking your vehicle’s brake pads, discs, and fluid levels ensures your brakes are in top form.
Need help? Call Kelly Ford!
If you lack the confidence in your own car maintenance practices, don’t fret! You can always count on Kelly Ford’s Service Department for all your vehicle’s care and repair needs—from engine work to tire service.
Additionally, you don’t have to leave your home or workplace for minor vehicle service needs. Kelly Ford’s Mobile Service brings expert care right to your driveway—for oil changes, recalls, tire rotations, and more. In addition, our Mobile Service can perform a complimentary multi-point vehicle check with every remote service appointment. The Kelly Ford Mobile Service also provides work on vehicle fleets and can service them all day or evening.
To schedule your Service Department appointment, please visit https://www.kellyford.com/ or call 321-401-5093. To schedule our Mobile Service, please visit https://www.kellyford.com/remote-service-program.htm.
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