What You Should Know About Summer Related Automotive Problems
S
ummer is a favorite season for many of us, but if our cars could talk, they'd probably be complaining about the demands heat places on an automobile. Here are four summer-related automotive problems with suggestions for combating each one.Hot weather is an enemy of your car's interior. Depending upon window size, glass tint, altitude, and other factors, parts of the interior may reach temperatures in excess of 200 degrees. Over time, this intense heat can soften glue, causing the headliner (ceiling fabric) and mirror to loosen. Once this occurs, gravity goes to work, pulling these items to the floor. Even if your car's interior were immune to extreme temperatures, the items in it may not be. Cameras and film are sensitive to direct sunlight and hot spots. An audio cassette can warp at 198 degrees while an aerosol can may explode at just 120 degrees.
Several solutions can alleviate heat build-up. Some are as simple as parking in a shady spot or cracking a window. In this age of automobile theft, another option is a sun visor that covers your windshield. More expensive wrap-around visors are also available. These cover the windshield as well as the windows. Professional window tinting is a good idea, but be aware that many states have laws governing this practice.
The sun's rays are tough on a car. Like human skin, the vinyl dash and doors are sensitive. To keep them from fading and cracking, use a cleaner with ultraviolet ray protection. This saves maintenance costs down the road.
Speaking of the road, when the highway is clogged with cars and you're stuck, turn off the air conditioner. As miserable as it sounds, it's not as bad as being stalled with an overheated engine. In fact, it's actually wise to turn on the heat. The heater is a little radiator that will increase the circulation of the engine's coolant.
Finally, pay close attention to the conditions of your car's battery during the summer months. Although cold weather decreases a battery's efficiency, warm weather decreases its life expectancy. To be certain your battery won't give out in the middle of a summer excursion, have it checked. This way you'll feel safe and secure before getting too far from home.
[This article was reprinted from articles appearing in the Car Care Council's web site http://www.carcarecouncil.org]