If you are planning to travel by car this summer, take steps to help
avoid ending up on the side of the road. Make sure your car is in good
shape so it won’t break down.
A properly maintained car gets you where you want to go, and saves you money getting there. Here’s what you need to check.
1. Radiator
Overheating is the number one cause of summer breakdowns, according
to the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). Make
sure your radiator is adequately filled with coolant at the right
concentration — usually a 50/50 mix of water and antifreeze, but check
your car’s specifications.
The radiator should be flushed every two years. If it hasn’t been
serviced, do so before you hit the road. If you’re a do-it-yourselfer,
make sure the engine has cooled before you open the radiator cap to
avoid being scalded by boiling coolant.
Check your dashboard temperature gauge while driving. If it moves
into the red, you’re going to have to turn your motor off or risk
damage. If your engine temperature starts creeping up, try turning your
air conditioning off and your heater on — all the way up. You may get
hot, but you might save your engine while on your way to get a
professional’s help.
2. Hoses
Your coolant is only as good as the hoses it flows through. Look for
leaks, cracks, peeling or separation. While the engine is still warm,
squeeze along the hose’s length — it should feel firm, but not hard. If
the hose is spongy or soft, even in one section, consider replacing it
before it fails and causes bigger problems.
3. Oil
The hotter the weather gets, the more important oil becomes. Oil
helps prevent overheating by lubricating many moving parts. However, oil
additives break down over time.
Oil change recommendations are as frequent as every 3,000 miles, but
makers of many modern cars say to wait until a maintenance-reminder
light brightens your dashboard.
According to the Car Care Council, “Though having to only change your
oil every 7,500 miles is something we would all prefer, 3,000 to 5,000
miles are numbers more representative of actual driving conditions. By
erring on the side of caution, you’ll help to extend the life of your
car.”
Check your oil between changes and add a quart or two of your car manufacturer’s recommended grade, if needed.
