Top Problems That Will Cause You to Need Summer Automotive Repair

Summer is arguably the biggest time of the year for automotive repair. The hot conditions can cause some parts to fail sooner than expected. To catch problems early, be sure to have your vehicle looked over before things really start to heat up. The last thing you want is to break down on a 90-degree day. Let’s take a look at the most common summer car problems.

Top 5 Automotive Repair Problems During the Summertime Heat:

Malfunctioning AC

While your vehicle’s AC isn’t a bare necessity, it sure makes life in the summer more enjoyable for Raleigh motorists. This is especially true when a heatwave is in the forecast. AC failure can definitely ruin your commute. Getting your system checked out ahead of time can save you a lot of stress.

If your AC stops working, automotive repair is definitely needed. Fortunately, the root of the problem is usually nothing major. Most people simply need a standard AC recharge, which involves topping up the refrigerant level using a special machine. On the other hand, you could also be dealing with a bad compressor or clogged condenser.

Overheating

It’s no surprise that overheating ranks among the most common summer car problems. As soon as you notice your temperature gauge rising or steam coming for underneath the hood, immediately pull over. Attempting to drive your vehicle any further could lead to major engine damage.

Before the summer kicks into full gear, automotive repair experts encourage you to have your vehicle’s cooling system inspected. The service technicians will check the condition of the coolant hoses and inspect for any leaks. At a certain point, your vehicle will also need a coolant system flush. This helps get rid of any built-up sediment.

Weak Battery

Many people tend to associate a weak battery with cold weather. While it does take more juice to start a vehicle in the winter, the summer can also wreak havoc by evaporating a battery’s vital fluids. The best approach is to replace an aging battery before the summer arrives.

Remember, it’s just as important to keep the terminals clean. Corrosion will cause a poor connection, thus making your vehicle more difficult to start. Your cables also need to remain snug at all times.

Broken Drive Belt

Many people are surprised to learn that a broken driving belt is a common summer car problem. This belt is responsible for transferring power to important components, including the alternator and water pump. If the drive belt breaks, the only solution is to bring your vehicle into the shop for automotive repair. Your vehicle will be not be drivable, so a tow will be necessary.

The mechanic will be need to replace the belt, which can last for more than 100,000 miles. To avoid the anxiety of your belt suddenly snapping while you’re on the road, have it examined every 10,000 miles. Cracks and cuts indicate the belt is on borrowed time.

Tire Bursts

While a tire blowout may occur at any time of the year, it’s more likely to happen during the summer. The scorching pavement can cause tread separation, which is a serious safety hazard. You could momentarily lose control over the vehicle. This means there’s a greater chance for you to be involved in a crash or rollover accident.

Make it a point to have your tires routinely inspected by a professional automotive repair technician. By examining tread depth, they can determine how many miles your tires have left. It’s also important to keep the tires inflated to recommended psi. Keep in mind that low pressure further increases the likelihood of a blowout. Taking a few minutes to check the pressure once a month can prevent a big headache.

If you think your vehicle may be in need of automotive repair, our ASE-certified Mechanics can help.