Summers in Austin are brutal. They’re hard on you, and they’re hard on your car. So, we want to share some summer car tips to help keep you and your vehicle cool. Giving your vehicle extra TLC during the hottest part of the year can help ensure your summer adventures don’t end with an overheated vehicle and a tow truck bill.

1. Think About Where You Park

Not surprisingly, a lot of our summer car tips will have to do with heat. We know parking in Austin can be challenging, but it’s worth spending some extra time to be picky. If you can park in a shaded spot or indoors, that’s best. Leaving your car in direct sunlight for extended periods can cause damage to the paintwork, which can affect the resale value.

When you’re looking for that perfect spot, don’t just grab the first shady one you find. If you’ll be parked for a while, the shade will shift. So, also think about where the shade will be, not just where it is.

Also, consider that while you’re enjoying your breakfast taco, your car’s interior is quickly heating up. Extreme heat inside the vehicle can make driving uncomfortable and even dangerous. Have you ever sat on a hot leather seat while wearing shorts? You won’t forget it. Invest in a window shade and/or dash cover to block the sun’s rays and keep the interior cooler.

To help alleviate the buildup of heat in your car, consider leaving the windows slightly cracked to allow for ventilation. Be mindful of security and only do this in safe locations. You don’t want to leave enough space that someone could get a hand in through the window.

If you do end up with a scorching interior, you can move the hot air out faster with this method. First, roll down one of the front windows. Then, head to the opposite side of the car and open and close the door a few times. This should help clear out some of the hot air.

2. Keep Your Car Clean

Here’s one area of summer car tips you may not have thought of. No matter where you’re parked, the heat of summer can accelerate the deterioration of your car’s interior. Plastics can melt, food can rot, and unpleasant odors can develop. Regularly cleaning or replacing interior parts can help prevent costly damage and maintain a pleasant driving environment.

Leaving a water bottle in your car can actually get dangerous. According to ABC News, there is a non-zero chance of a water bottle causing a fire in your car. Basically, if there is enough light shining through the clear bottle and liquid, other objects in the beam can heat up enough to ignite. There is also a possibility of the water in a hot bottle becoming contaminated with toxins. Just in case you needed a reason to buy yet another giant Stanley Cup.

This big, dumb cup could save your life.

While you’re at it, remember the outside of your car. Cleaning the exterior of your vehicle helps protect the paint from the harsh effects of the sun and other environmental factors. Regular washing and waxing can preserve the shine and finish of your car.

3. Have an Emergency Kit in Your Car

Having an emergency kit ready isn’t just one of our summer car tips. It’s something we recommend, no matter the weather. The change of seasons is the perfect opportunity to make sure you have the right equipment for seasonal weather conditions.

Summer means being specially prepared for hot weather emergencies. Include essentials such as plenty of water (not in a clear plastic bottle, of course), emergency food, basic first aid supplies, and sunscreen (which you should be wearing anyway).

Additionally, include items such as a visibility kit (reflective triangles or flares), a flashlight, and a multi-tool in case of emergencies. If you find yourself stuck on the side of the road, you’ll want to be as visible to other drivers as possible.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to use your kit. However, it’s better to have it and not need it. Take some time before you hit the open road to restock your supplies. Being prepared ensures you can stay safe and hydrated during unexpected situations.

4. Summer Car Tips for Maintenance

Of course, we have to leave you with some summer car tips about regular vehicle maintenance. Pay close attention to your tires during the summer months. That means you should periodically check the tire pressure and tread depth. Remember that hot roads increase the risk of tire blowouts, especially if the pressure is low. If you’re concerned, consider having your tires inspected by a professional to ensure they are in good condition.

Fluid levels can evaporate faster in hot weather, so keeping an eye on fluids such as coolant, oil, and transmission fluid is essential. Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for proper fluid levels and recommended maintenance intervals. Regularly check and top up vital fluids to keep your engine in top shape.

Wrapping Up

By following these summer car tips, you can protect your vehicle from the damaging effects of heat and maintain its performance and value. Enjoy the summer with a well-maintained and comfortable car!

Remember, if you have any concerns or need assistance with car maintenance, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional mechanic or auto service center for expert advice. Schedule an appointment with Juke Auto today, and we’d be happy to make sure your car is summer-ready!