Summer is here and with it comes the scorching heat. As much as we enjoy the warm weather, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for your vehicle, especially when parked in the sun for extended periods of time. The high temperatures can cause damage to your car’s interiors, increase tire pressure, and even cause engine problems. Keeping your automobile cool during the summer is important not only for your comfort, but also its longevity. In this article, we’ll provide tips and tricks to teach you how to keep your car cool in the summer months.
While you were busy taking out your summer gear and running those extra laps to get your body ready for the season, many seem to forget that their car also needs to get ready for the summer heat. If you’re planning on hitting the road this summer, make sure you have the best auto insurance and follow these few tips to get ready:
9 Tips To Keep Your Car Cool In The Summer Heat
1. Check Fluids
By car fluids we mean the engine oil, antifreeze/coolant, windshield, power, steering, transmission and brake fluids. The main reason cars break down in the summer is from engine overheating and cooling system failure. The coolant must be replaced at least once every two years. Also, be sure to check the radiator cap before summer starts, as they tend to get cracked or damaged with the heat.
2. Check The Hoses And Belts
These can become brittle, loose, or cracked. Your vehicle’s hoses and belts are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, cooling system and power steering. Make sure to check that everything is in order before hitting the road.
3. Make Sure Your Air Conditioning Is Working
Don’t wait until the hottest day of the summer to find out your A/C system is broken. Make sure it’s running properly and that it won’t fail on you during the hottest day of summer by checking the filter. If it doesn’t feel as cool as it once did, take your car to be checked out ASAP.
Getting your air-conditioner serviced is essential to avoid heat, especially during the hot summer months. A well-functioning air-conditioner helps keep the interior of your automobile cool and comfortable, preventing heat exhaustion, discomfort, and distraction while driving. Furthermore, a poorly functioning air-conditioner can consume more fuel, increasing your fuel costs and reducing your car’s performance. Regular air-conditioner service not only maintains its effectiveness but also ensures that the refrigerant levels are at optimal levels, which is vital for the longevity of your vehicle’s air-conditioning system. Hence, it is crucial to get your air-conditioner serviced to ensure that it is working efficiently and to avoid the discomfort and potential danger of a hot car.
4. Window Sun Shades
Having window sun shades is important because it helps to avoid heat from entering the car and making it unbearable. When the sun’s rays directly hit the windows, it heats up the interior, making it uncomfortable and hot to sit in. This can also increase the temperature inside and cause damage to interiors, such as cracking the dashboard or fading the seat covers. These protect the vehicle’s interiors by blocking out the sun’s rays and reducing the amount of heat entering. They also provide privacy and reduce glare, making driving more comfortable and safer. Overall, it’s an essential accessory for any driver who wants to keep their car cool and comfortable in the summer.
5. Park In Shaded Or Protected Areas
Parking in shaded or protected areas when trying to cool down the temperature of your car is important for several reasons. First, the shade provides protection from the direct sunlight which can cause it to heat up quickly. Secondly, the shade can reduce the amount of heat absorbed by the vehicle, helping to keep the interior cooler. Additionally, parking in shaded or protected areas can reduce the risk of damage to the exterior, such as fading and cracking of the paint due to exposure to the sun’s UV rays.
Furthermore, it is also easier to get into a car that has been parked in a shaded area, as the interior will not be as hot, making it a more comfortable experience for the driver and passengers. Therefore, it is crucial to park in shaded or protected areas when trying to cool down the temperature of your car, as its multiple benefits include your well being.
During the summer it is also a good idea to park in a garage to take advantage of the shade.
6. Check The Tires
Tire care is essential. Make sure to include tire pressure and tread. Uneven wear indicates a need for a wheel alignment. Tires should also be checked for bald spots and bulges. Use a tire gauge to monitor your car’s tire pressure, but make sure to check them after they’ve cooled down, as pressure tends to rise in higher temperatures during the day. Also, be sure to have your tires rotated every 5,000 miles.
7. Check Lighting And Wipers
Check that all exterior and interior lighting is working properly and be sure to inspect and replace worn-out wiper blades. This will ensure that you can see as well as be seen on the road and will prevent you getting a “fix-it” ticket.
It is also recommended that drivers consider a brake inspection and tune-up to help the engine deliver the best balance of power and fuel economy. To further save on fuel costs, gas caps that are damaged, loose or missing should be replaced to prevent gas from spilling or evaporating.
8. Purchase a Solar-Powered Fan
Purchasing a solar-powered fan for your automobile is an important investment as it helps in keeping it cool, especially during hot summer days. With a solar-powered fan, you can enjoy cool and comfortable air inside your vehicle without having to worry about draining your battery or damaging the environment. The fan is powered by solar energy, which makes it eco-friendly and cost-effective. Additionally, the fan can be used for ventilation and improved air circulation, keeping the air inside your car fresh and free of unpleasant odors.
9. Harness the Power of Evaporative Cooling
While this option is more for classic vehicles, using an evaporative cooler can be an effective way to cool down your vehicle during hot weather. Evaporative cooling works by using the natural process of evaporation to reduce the temperature of the air entering your car. To do this, a device known as an evaporative cooler, or swamp cooler, is used. This device contains a reservoir of water that is pumped over a cooling pad. As air is pulled through the pad, the water evaporates, which cools the air before it enters the car. The result is a refreshing blast of cool air that can provide relief from the heat, especially in dry climates.
While evaporative cooling may not be as effective in humid conditions, it can still provide some relief and help reduce your dependence on air conditioning, which can save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint.
Last but not least, make sure you have the proper and cost friendly auto insurance coverage. If you’re planning on taking a road trip across several states or if you’re planning to cross international borders, make sure you talk to your Freeway insurance agent about the different types of auto insurance coverage available to you.
You can stop by any of our locations and have the experience of having our agents assist you or contact us at (800) 777-5620.
