10 Things To Remember During Summer Months
1. Mark your calendar to perform your vehicles weekly checks
2. Check your tire tread depth. It you lack a depth gauge, then using a penny
can also work. Place the penny with Lincolns head towards the tire into the tread gap, if the depth is below the top of his head, then time to replace your tires.
http://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/pennytiretest/Take the penny test
3. Check to insure your spare tire (for those vehicles that have them) to make sure your spare has the proper amount of air pressure. Nothing more embarrassing than to have a spare as flat as the one you are trying to change out.
4. Check/Change your engine oil. Oil is the lifeblood of your car. It keeps hardworking engine parts running clean, smooth and cool. Most owners’ manuals suggest that you change your oil and oil filter every 7,500 miles (12,070 kilometers). Oil change specialists suggest every 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers) or three months. The fact is, most of us do a lot of heavy driving during the summer when an engine is more likely to overheat. So at least check your oil before you head out on that road trip with the family.
5. Check all your engine fluids, transmission, power steering, brake, coolant and windshield wiper fluids. They all play a vital role in keeping your car operating at its peak performance.
6. Check your engine drive belts. Heat and cold temperatures play havoc on their longevity. Inspect for cracks or chunks missing on the belt.
7. Check your hoses for softness, cracks, and leaks at the clamps or seeping.
8. Check your air filter. During winter and summer months, dirt can build up in and around your air filter. They are relatively inexpensive to replace. If your air filter becomes dirty, it can cause loss of power and will consume excessive amounts of gasoline.
9. Brakes, Your brakes are the single most important safety feature on your car. Don’t put yourself or your family at risk this summer by riding around on worn down or faulty brakes. Many shops offer a free safety inspection.
10. Lastly, check your engines battery. A weak battery can cause your summer plans to have a bump in the road. Having it checked is very important to keeping your engine running. Many shops and auto parts stores offer a free battery check. It can give you a piece of mind.
Remember to check your owners manual, it is a wealth of information on how to check your fluids and the location of where they are located.