6 Summer Maintenance Tips

Just like in winter, it is important to keep up maintenance on your car for the Seattle summer season. Having a checklist of things to go over for your vehicle can be extremely helpful for keeping yourself and your passengers safe on the roads. 

Keeping your vehicle in good working condition doesn’t take that much time and the time you do take on the tasks will pay off in the end. Having a clean car with functioning features like wiper blades and brakes is essential for any driver. Read on for a list of more summer maintenance tips.

Summer Maintenance Tips

Replace Wiper Blades

Living in the Pacific Northwest means that the beloved rain can come upon us at anytime. That is why it is important to make sure that your windshield wiper blades are up to the challenge of the Seattle area’s moody weather patterns. Over time, wiper blades can break down, so they need to be replaced periodically.

You will see the signs of wear like streaking across the window instead of clearing water and debris from your view, which is a big issue when you’re trying to see clearly on the roads in the dark and rain. Take the time before your next big adventure to have your wiper blades checked and likely replaced. Being able to see is the number one requirement for driving! 

Check Tire Pressure

Your tires are hugely important to helping you get to where you need to go safely and year round maintenance. Having tires that are over- or under- inflated can be a big issue. An at-home tire gauge can help you easily check pressure without going into a shop. The exact PSI your tires should be at should be listed in your owner’s manual. Typically, most vehicles should at between 30 and 45 pounds per square inch. 

Tire pressure should be checked monthly. While you check tire pressure, it is also a good idea to take a look at the tread, as well as inspect each tire for superficial damages such as nails. While your tire may be working for now, a nail can weaken your tire, and increase your chances for a blowout. 

Top Off Fluids

Heat can negatively impact your vehicle, especially if your fluids are low. That’s why it’s important to check your maintenance and that all your fluids are topped off before any long summer drives. This can help to prevent any issues while on the road. 

Brake Check

When you step on your brake do you hear squealing? Grinding? If so, you should get your brakes checked out professionally. Issues with your brakes can have deadly consequences. If you hear sounds when braking or if the brake feels “spongy”, you should bring your vehicle in to your local mechanic right away. 

Replace Air Filters 

The air filter for your engine helps to keep dirt and debris out, which in turn can help keep your fuel economy up. Engine air filters should be changed every 15,000 to 30,000 miles to keep up with proper maintenance, depending on manufacturer. 

A/C Test

Even though it’s been a relatively mild summer so far, a functional A/C and regular maintenance is crucial to surviving summer heat. You don’t want to be caught in summer Seattle traffic when the sun finally decides to show up in full force. That’s why it’s important to have your A/C inspected before the weather changes too much. 

If you need to have a summer safety check done, come in to Superior Auto, your Seattle auto shop. Call today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to serving you soon!