The Impact of Extreme Heat on Your Vehicle
Extreme heat can be more than just uncomfortable for drivers; it can significantly affect the performance and longevity of your vehicle. Local mechanics in Springfield, Missouri, emphasize the importance of regular maintenance to ensure safety and reliability during hot weather.
Anthony Ferrara, a local driver who spends a lot of time on the roads, has firsthand experience with how extreme heat impacts vehicles. He notes that the heat can cause considerable damage. “The hot road on the tires. The heat takes away more from mechanical than the cold,” he says. To stay safe, Ferrara conducts daily safety checks before and after each trip. “Before we go into the car, we go through everything, all the fluids, and check them. We make sure everything’s right. Then we leave. When we come back, we check them again to see if something goes off, then they fix it.”
Tips for Staying Safe During Hot Weather
Local mechanic Travis Comfort offers several tips for drivers to maintain their vehicles during extreme heat. One key point is checking your car’s battery. “Just like the batteries in extreme cold, it can be taxing on that battery. So, always get your battery checked with an oil change,” he advises.
Comfort also recommends checking other essential components during routine oil changes. “Always make sure your fluids are good. If your fluids are old and worn down, the heat is going to affect it and it could cause issues,” he explains. This includes coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid, which can degrade faster in high temperatures.
Another sign to watch for is unusual noises when the air conditioning is running. “If it starts to idle very rough when you’re running your A/C, you might have a small issue that it’s intensifying it, and it kind of shows those,” Comfort warns. Drivers should pay attention to how their engine behaves under the load of the AC system, as it can place extra stress on the engine.
The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is crucial, especially during peak summer months. Comfort emphasizes the value of staying on top of your car’s upkeep. “I can’t really stress enough just make sure you’re getting those checks properly with your oil change on normal maintenance, that way when these times come you’re not fumbling and your car’s not going to break down,” he says.
Ferrara agrees with this advice, noting that small issues can escalate quickly. “One thing can lead to another. One little thing becomes big. No more engine,” he adds. By addressing minor problems early, drivers can avoid major breakdowns and costly repairs.
Additional Considerations
Mechanics also note that gas mileage may decrease during hot weather due to the increased use of air conditioning. “Your AC runs harder to keep up with the heat, which can impact fuel efficiency,” Comfort explains. This is something drivers should be aware of, especially if they’re planning long trips or commuting in high-temperature conditions.
In summary, taking proactive steps to maintain your vehicle during extreme heat is essential. From checking fluids and batteries to monitoring engine performance and fuel efficiency, there are several measures drivers can take to ensure their cars remain reliable and safe. By following the advice of local mechanics, drivers can reduce the risk of breakdowns and enjoy a smoother, more comfortable driving experience.
