Be A Summer-Ready Driver

Summer's heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic will take their toll on your vehicle. Add the effects of this past winter, and you might be poised for a breakdown. You can decrease the odds of auto mechanical failure through regular maintenance. By taking the advice of Jungerman CARSTAR in St. Peters, MO, your motor vehicle will last longer and command an increased resale price, as well!
Many of the tips below are really easy to do; others call for a skilled auto technician.

Air Conditioning

A marginally operating system will fail in warm weather. Have the system inspected by a qualified technician in the St. Louis, MO area. More recent models include cabin air filters which clean the air getting into the heating and air conditioning system. Check your owner's manual for location and replacement interval.

Cooling System

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. The cooling system ought to be completely flushed and refilled about every 24 months. The level, condition, and concentration of the coolant ought to be checked regularly. A fifty-fifty mixture of antifreeze and water is usually recommended. DIYers, don't remove the radiator cap until the engine has thoroughly cooled! The tightness and condition of drive belts, clamps, and hoses should be checked by a professional like those at Jungerman CARSTAR.

Oil

Many factors affect how often you need to switch out your oil and oil filter. The standard rule of thumb is every 3,000 miles, but some of the factors that might make you need to switch out your oil include making lots of short trips, making big trips with a lot of weight, or hauling a heavy trailer.


Engine Performance

This may sound like a daunting task, but it is actually very easy to take some simple steps to keep your engine working properly. The biggest thing that you can do besides oil changes is replace the filters. PCV, fuel, and air filters all have to be switched out every once in a while, particularly in dusty environments. Also do not forget to have an auto body shop immediately take care of funny noises and feelings, like hard starts, reduced power, stalling, and turbulent idling.

Windshield Wipers

It’s a bad idea have a dirty windshield. That could lead to eye fatigue after long trips on the road and ultimately it’s a safety hazard. Get rid of your blades when they get worn out and do not forget to keep plenty of windshield washer solvent on hand.

Lights

You’re going to want to keep your lenses clean of dirt and insects by cleaning them regularly. Don’t use a dry rag because that could actually scratch the lens. And do not forget to check all of the bulbs regularly to make sure that they are not burnt out.

Tires

Getting your tires rotated every five thousand miles to assure even rotation on them. Be sure to check your tire pressure every month. Also, when the weather gets colder, check them before you drive too far. Also, regularly inspect your spare tire and jack. Look for uneven wear on your tires, cupping, and tread life. Look for lacerations in the sidewalls. You should get your tires realigned if you discover uneven tread wearing or whenever your car pulls over to the side.

Brakes

Brakes ought to be inspected as suggested in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Even minor brake problems ought to be fixed promptly.

Battery

Batteries can fail at any time of the year. The only accurate way to detect a weak battery is with professional equipment. Routine care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are detachable, check the fluid level every month. Avoid contact with corrosive deposits and battery acid. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves.

Emergencies

Carry some standard tools -- ask a technician for suggestions. Also have a first aid kit, flares, and a flashlight.