PHOENIX (AZFamily) — As Heat Awareness Week continues, ADOT says now is the time to check your cars before the summer heat kicks in.
While summer road trip season gets underway, the department’s Kelsey Mo said it’s crucial to take preventative measures before Arizona reaches damaging triple-digit temperatures.
“An unexpected delay, maybe there’s a road closure or maybe your car breaks down or you catch a flat, we want to make sure that if you find yourself in those circumstances in extreme heat that you can stay safe,” Mo said.
Local auto repair shop Good Works Auto said prevention is key, and there are things drivers can do to help avoid costly breakdowns.
1. Test your battery
Summer heat can drain your battery. If it’s more than three years old, be sure to have it tested. A certified mechanic can determine how much longer it’s expected to last.
2. Maintain your AC system
Your vehicle should provide relief from triple-digit heat, so if you notice the air conditioning system is blowing low or warm, contact a certified technician. Newer models have cabin filters that block outside debris from entering the vehicle’s interior, and you may want to have it inspected and replaced if needed for maximum cooling and airflow.
3. Ensure plenty of fluids
Just like for humans, fluids are essential for cars. Not only do fluids lubricate parts, but they also carry heat away from important parts. Extreme heat will lead to evaporation and potentially reduce the cooling effect, which can lead to your car overheating.
Make sure engine (motor) oil, coolant/antifreeze, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power steering fluid are full. If you want to replace fluids on your own, be sure to check the owner’s manual so you use the right type for your vehicle.
4. Check tire pressure and condition
Properly inflated tires are important year-round, and during the summer it’s critical. Underinflated tires can overheat and increase the likelihood of a blowout. Overinflated tires can happen due to climbing temperatures. Generally, tires gain one pound per square inch (PSI) for every 10-degree change in temperature. Overinflated tires will wear prematurely and can interfere with braking.
Extreme heat can also cause sidewall cracking, which can lead to a dry tire that’s more likely to crack.
Good Works Auto owner Glen Hayward said all of these elements can lead to dangerous and damaging costs to your car and your family if you wait till the last minute.
“It can save you 80% of the cost if you take preventative measures versus an emergency repair,” Hayward said. “The heat itself damages a lot of things other climates may not, like belts, hoses, anti-freeze, brake fluid, all of these things people don’t think about.”
In case of an emergency, ADOT wants drivers to pack emergency kits that contain the following:
- Extra water
- Healthy snacks
- Fully charged cell phone and battery charger
- First aid kit
- Sun protection (sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, etc.)
- Prescription medication
- Flashlight and batteries
For more tips on helping your car beat the heat, CLICK HERE.
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