Car Maintenance Tips for the Summer

The peak period of summer is finally upon us. While a long drive may seem like the perfect way to escape the monotony of daily life, most car owners overlook the fact that extreme heat and dust can be tough on your car, and can hinder its smooth functioning. While car insurance may cover expenses incurred on repairing the car, it would be advisable that you keep your car in the best condition possible to avoid making an unnecessary claim in the first place. So, this summer before you take your car, here are some precautions you must take to ensure that your drives are smooth and worry-free.

1. Coolant System

Keeping cool is of utmost importance in the summers; this is true not only for ourselves but also for our cars. In addition to checking the coolant level in your car, you do a bit extra and check the state of the hoses and coolant reservoir. Make sure that you keep an eye out for leaks, especially at connecting points, like the place where the hose connects to the engine block. Also, when the engine is cool, squeeze the hose once in a while to make sure they feel firm and not soft or squishy.  Engine Belts

An engine belt is a serpentine belt that runs between the alternator, the fan, and several other engine components. Over the course of time, engine belts can deteriorate, become loose or can sometimes just break. Engine belts need to be in good condition and at the correct tension. If you happen to see any cracks in the belt or a small piece missing, it is time to replace it.

2. Wipers

Yes, we know it is summer, and wipers might be the last thing you will need, but we are well aware of the unpredictability of nature, and that it can rain at any point. Worn wipers can create nasty streaks across the windshield. This, in turn, can affect your vision while driving. Replacing wipers isn’t costly but it can be a cumbersome task. So, when you take your car for an oil change, ask them to replace the wipers too.

3. Other Essential Fluids

Always check the oil, brake, power-steering and windshield washer fluids regularly. These liquids are constantly used and consumed. Talking of brake fluid, if your car brake feels lacking in a bite or feels a bit spongy, it is time to get new brake pads. This kind of periodic maintenance should be taken care of by your mechanic or dealership.  Remember, motor insurance usually doesn’t cover consumables like brake fluid and engine oil.

4. Air-Conditioning System

Air-conditioning is a must in summer. If your car’s air conditioning system hasn’t been working properly but wasn’t your prime concern due to winter, then now is the time you get serious about it. Have a qualified mechanic look at your air-conditioning system.

5. Air Filter

There might be a chance that leaves and other such debris might be clogging up drainage points, windshield-washer nozzles or the car’s air filter. Summers is the perfect time to get a new air filter or get the old one cleaned. Many modern cars also have pollen filters, so take a look at it too. Like always, consult a mechanic for cleaning and replacing go to your dealership’s service center. 

6. Tires

Tires actually need to be checked regularly all year around. Pressure must be correct, tires tread must be free of stones and the like, and all the four tires should be in good condition. A tire in good condition means no cracks, no uneven wear and plenty of tread depth. The space also needs to be in usable condition. Additionally, maintain the right pressure as recommended by the manufacturer to avoid unexpected tire bursts.

7. Battery

It isn’t only in winters when a drop in temperature affects your car’s battery; summer can strain it too. Excessive loss of battery fluids during summer can lead to oxidation of battery components, and battery failure can leave you stranded by the roadside. While a car insurance policy with Road Side Assistance (RSA) can help you in this situation, you can easily avoid it by checking your car’s battery regularly.

Apart from the aforementioned tips for the maintenance of your car during the summer, you can try to park your car under the shade. This will save the car from being baked in the scorching sun. It is also advisable that you protect your car with car insurance. For that, you can purchase car insurance online as well. Having adequate car insurance will ensure that you will enjoy a comfortable and stress-free drive.

Here are some benefits for car insurance

**To understand exactly about the policy coverage, exclusions etc read the Policy Wordings carefully.**