Summer is prime time for road trips, beach days, and spontaneous drives, but it’s also one of the busiest seasons for car breakdowns. Heat can push your vehicle to its limits, and without proper preparation, you could find yourself stranded under the blazing sun. D&R Towing is always available when you need towing services, but it’s always preferable to avoid breaking down if you can.
Taking a road trip this summer? Here are the three most common summer-related breakdowns and how to prevent them.
Overheating Engines
High temperatures put extra strain on your car’s cooling system. If the radiator, thermostat, or coolant levels aren’t in top shape, your engine can quickly overheat.
Prevention Tip: Check your coolant level regularly and top it off with the appropriate mixture of antifreeze and water. Inspect hoses and the radiator for leaks, bulges, or cracks. If your temperature gauge starts to rise, pull over and let the engine cool before continuing.
Dead or Weak Batteries
Summer heat can be just as hard on your battery as winter cold. Excessive heat accelerates corrosion and evaporates battery fluid, leading to reduced performance and eventual failure.
Prevention Tip: Have your battery tested at the start of summer, especially if it’s more than three years old. Keep the terminals clean and free of corrosion, and ensure the battery is securely mounted to prevent vibrations that can cause internal damage.
Tire Blowouts
Hot pavement and underinflated tires are a dangerous mix. As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure in your tires, and if they’re already worn or improperly inflated, a blowout becomes more likely.
Prevention Tip: Check your tire pressure at least once a month, preferably when the tires are cool to the touch. Use the PSI recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer (not the max pressure listed on the tire). Don’t forget to inspect the tread depth and sidewalls for signs of wear or damage.
NH Towing Services | D&R Towing
Preventive maintenance goes a long way toward avoiding summer breakdowns. Schedule a trip check before you leave on a road trip, keep an emergency kit in your car, and save D&R Towing’s number in your phone! We’re ready to help you out whenever you need towing services.
