Summer Car Maintenance Tips to Avoid Breakdowns

Hot weather can be brutal on your car, leading to overheating, battery failures, and even blowouts. Follow these essential summer car care tips to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly breakdowns.

🌡️ 1. Prevent Overheating

Check & Top Off Coolant

• Low coolant is the #1 cause of summer breakdowns.

• Ensure the coolant reservoir is between MIN/MAX marks.

• Use a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water for optimal cooling.

Inspect Radiator & Hoses

• Look for leaks, cracks, or bulging hoses.

• Replace worn-out hoses before they burst in extreme heat.

🔋 2. Test & Protect Your Battery

• Heat accelerates battery fluid evaporation.

• Clean corroded terminals (use baking soda + water).

• Check voltage (12.4V–12.7V = good, below 12V = replace).

• Park in shade to extend battery life.

🛞 3. Avoid Tire Blowouts

Check Tire Pressure Weekly

• Underinflated tires overheat faster and increase blowout risk.

• Follow PSI recommendations (found in the door jamb or manual).

Inspect Tread & Sidewalls

• Bald tires + hot pavement = disaster.

• Use the penny test (insert upside down—if you see Lincoln’s head, replace tires).

🛢️ 4. Keep Engine Oil in Check

• Summer heat thins out oil, reducing lubrication.

• Switch to synthetic oil (better heat resistance).

• Change oil every 5,000–7,500 miles (or as per manufacturer).

🪟 5. Maintain AC Performance

Recharge if Weak

• If AC isn’t cooling well, it may need a recharge (R134a refrigerant).

• Check for leaks (hissing sounds = possible refrigerant leak).

Replace Cabin Air Filter

• A clogged filter reduces airflow and strains the AC.

• Change every 12,000–15,000 miles.

🚗 6. Protect Interior from Sun Damage

Use a Sunshade

• Prevents dashboard cracking and keeps cabin cooler.

Condition Leather & Vinyl

• Apply UV-protectant wipes to prevent fading and cracks.

🚘 7. Emergency Summer Car Kit

Pack these essentials in case of a breakdown:
✔ Coolant + distilled water
✔ Jumper cables (heat kills batteries!)
✔ Tire repair kit & portable inflator
✔ Extra water & sunscreen (for you!)

🚦 Final Tip: Watch for Warning Signs

• Temperature gauge rising? Turn off AC, blast heat, and pull over.

• AC smells musty? Mold in vents—clean with an antibacterial spray.

• Squealing belts? Heat worsens wear—get them inspected.

Stay Cool & Drive Safe!

🚗 Need help diagnosing your car’s issue?

Call us: +971 558370358

Website: AMA Auto