Spring is finally here! Though this doesn’t always mean warmer weather in the Black Hills, sunny days are somewhere around the corner. Now is a great time to prepare your vehicle for the summer heat. Here are a few helpful tips:
Air Conditioning Systems
Don’t get stuck sweating in your vehicle on a hot day. Have your climate control system inspected for proper function. Keep an eye out for any belts or hoses that may be worn or cracked from the cold, such as your serpentine belt, for example. This belt powers the air conditioning compressor. Also, inspect your belt tensioner. To avoid overheating, ensure you have plenty of fresh coolant. Consider replacing your cabin air filter to help prevent spring allergens from being sucked into the cabin.
Filters and Fluids
To protect your engine from debris, check your air filter. Inspect your wiper blades for any extreme wear from the winter ice and grime. You should change your wiper blades every 6-12 months. Our parts department supplies genuine Motorcraft wipers if you’re due for a replacement, and our service department can install them if needed. These will come in handy during the upcoming thunderstorms. Make sure your washer fluid is full, and opt for a summer solution.
Check Your Tires
It’s about time to swap out your winter tires for all-season/summer sets. While tires may lose pressure in the cold winter months, the opposite happens as temperatures rise. Avoid overinflation and premature wear by ensuring your tire pressure is at the appropriate PSI. Check your tire tread as well – it should be at least 5/32 inches. An easy way to check your tread is by placing a penny into the track. If you can see all of Abraham Lincoln’s head, your tread is too thin! Inspect the sidewalls for any damage that could lead to a potential blowout. Moreover, ensure your car is aligned correctly to avoid premature wear. These tips will help lengthen the life of your tires and save you money on gas while prices are at an all-time high.
Battery Health
Believe it or not, hot temperatures can be harder on your battery than cold. Battery corrosion accelerates in the heat, and water in the battery’s liquid electrolyte can evaporate, leading to a weakened battery with a shorter lifespan. Have your battery checked before the temperatures begin to rise.
Spring Cleaning
Don’t forget about your vehicle when it’s time for spring cleaning! Salt and grime from the winter can eventually damage your vehicle’s exterior, so set aside time to scrub the outside, including nooks and crannies like your undercarriage or engine bay. Applying a coat of wax will help protect your paint from the hot sun. While you’re at it, clean the inside, too! Get rid of any clutter and clean your surfaces. Lastly, replace your winter emergency kit with a summer one. Check out this article for more tips on what you should have on hand.
White’s Canyon Ford is Here For You
White’s Canyon Ford is ready to help you with your vehicle needs this season. Whether it’s preventative maintenance or a particular part or accessory, give us a call! If you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned vehicle for those long summer road trips, we have a great selection. Our dealership dedicates itself to excellent customer service. Let us show you the difference between us and our competitors this season!
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