With so many travel plans over the summer – out of town getaways, beach days, or other outdoor activities – reliable transportation is a must. Before you put these plans into action, here are five tips to prepare your car for fun in the sun.
How to Prepare Your Car for the Summer
1. Make Sure Your AC System is in Working Condition
Sometimes stepping into your car in the summer can feel like stepping into a sauna on a hot day. Making sure your air conditioning is in top shape can minimize your car as a heat box. The best time to get your AC system serviced is before summer, so you can be prepared before it becomes a necessity to use.
2. Replace Your Windshield Wiper Blades
Your wiper blades have been working hard over the past few rainy months. The general rule of thumb is to replace your wiper blades twice a year, at the beginning/end of each season. This will ensure fresh blades to wipe away any of that summer dust you find coating your windshield.
3. Get an Oil Change and Check Your Tires
Vehicles need an oil change every 3,000 miles. Keeping your car well oiled will allow for smooth summer driving. Another part of your car to pay attention to is the tires. The last thing you want is a flat tire to spoil a trip, so making sure your tires are without damage, your car steers straight, and you have proper air pressure will lower those chances.
4. Purchase a Few Car Accessories to Cool Your Car
When your car is sitting in the sun, everything inside can be too hot to touch. Small items like steering wheel covers or windshield sunshades can make a big difference on the inside temperature. For a more permanent solution, look into window tinting for an overall way to block the sun from the inside of your vehicle.
5. Clean Your Car Inside and Out
Over the winter months, gunk and junk can accumulate in your car. A thorough wash and wax of the outside will help protect the paint from the harsh summer sun. Also, taking the time to clean the inside will create space to pack your car for exciting summer getaways.
Once you follow these basic tips for car preparation, your summer adventures can be worry free!