Hot summer days are great for heading out to the beach, but they may not be as great for your vehicle. This post can help you learn about how the heat can affect your vehicle and what to do about it.

The Effects of the Heat on Your Vehicle

If you have ever worried about how the heat may cause issues for you car, you are right to worry. The sun's rays are powerful enough to cause sunburns, so why wouldn't they affect your vehicle? To learn more about how the heat can cause issues for your car, keep reading.

Tire Pressure

Your tires can be affected by a couple factors over the summer. Higher than usual temperatures can cause the air in your tires to expand, leading your tires to be over inflated. Another factor that can contribute to this same result is the hot asphalt. Your tire tread will constantly be subjected to extremely hot surfaces, leaving you in danger of blowouts. The best thing you can do is keep an eye on your tire tread, looking out for damage and other issues. Be sure to also check your tire pressure monthly with a pressure gauge. Adjust the pressure to the right amount to be sure you're safe on the road.

Battery Power

Winter is known to take a toll on car batteries, but the summer can be just as bad. Think about the long drives to the beach, the constant use of the a/c, and how often you charge your phone while driving. All of these factors can contribute to a weaker battery. To avoid getting stranded in the middle of a trip, always carry jumper cables in your car. It's also a good idea to check the battery terminals for corrosion or rust that may interrupt a good connection.

Your Vehicle's Oil

Your car's motor oil is basically its main bloodline. Without enough oil or without clean oil your vehicle will suffer. The extreme summer temperatures can cause your oil to evaporate faster or burn off much quicker. There are a couple things you can do to be sure your engine is always well lubricated and protected. Start by checking on your oil level and the condition of the oil regularly. This will help prevent driving around with oil that can no longer do its job properly. Another thing you can do is get a synthetic oil change. Synthetic oil resists evaporation better than conventional oil, helping keep your engine well lubricated in the hottest of conditions. To learn more about the many benefits of using a synthetic oil, contact ALF Marketing at (301) 416-0575. Not only can they inform you about the benefits of synthetic oil, they can also recommend the best products for you vehicle. Be sure to stop by their online shop to browse their full range of AMSOIL Oil products.

Keep Your Engine Cool

Even if you're not exactly sure how coolant works, its name gives you and idea of the main job it performs. Temperatures under the hood rise as the tiny metal parts in your engine get to work. This is quite normal, but when combined with high summer temperatures this can lead to an overheating engine. This won't just happen because its hot; its usually the result of an issue in the cooling system. This may be anything from low coolant levels to a malfunctioning fan. Be sure to keep an eye on your coolant this summer and top it off when necessary. We recommend carrying some in your trunk just in case your engine starts heating up too much while on the road.

Important Fluids

Your coolant and oil are hugely important, but there are also other fluids to keep an eye on. For example, the heat may affect your transmission fluid and your power steering fluid. These don't have to be checked as often as the other fluids, but it is recommended that you check on them every once in a while. Remember that your gas may also evaporate faster due to the heat. To prevent this, park in a shady area that will help your car keep cool.

Interior Damage

The sun also has the potential to damage interior components in your car's cabin. Use a sun shield in your windshield and try to park in the sun to keep the cabin protected from sun damage. Exposing your car to the sun can cause plastic parts to become dry and even crack. If you have leather seats, keep them covered and condition them often to ensure they stay at their best.

Get a Synthetic Oil Change in Chambersburg

Now that you know how to keep your car well protected this summer, don't put off getting a synthetic oil change in Chambersburg any longer. Find the perfect products for your car by contacting the experts at ALF Marketing at (301) 416-0575. If you prefer, you can also browse their products in their online shop.