Nothing gets hotter than the South in the summer. Your Honda feels the heat, too. High temperatures affect your vehicle’s performance and can lead to problems in the short- and long-term. Luckily there are many things you can do to protect your Honda from the summer sun, and Hendrick Honda Bradenton is here to help.
Oil
One easy way to protect your vehicle is to stay up-to-date on your oil changes. When your engine is hot, it needs lubrication more than ever. Hot oil decomposes faster, causes certain additives to evaporate, and shortens the life of filters and seals, so making sure you give your car the freshest oil is especially important in the summer.
Tires
Between the high temperatures and the long road trips, tires are under a lot of stress during the summer. Tire pressure increases as the outside air temperature increases, so tires are in danger of inflating beyond safe levels. Before you start driving, check that your tires are at the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure, listed in your owner’s manual. Also, check that your tires’ treads are in good condition. Uneven treadwear, bulges, or lumps are all signs of unbalanced tires or tires that should be replaced. And don’t forget that your vehicle has five tires: Make sure the spare is inflated and ready to be called into service.
Driving
Your driving style can also affect your vehicle’s performance and longevity. Driving slower reduces the demand on the engine and transmission. This is especially important on long trips; your vehicle can get overheated if driven at sustained high speeds all day. When your engine is working harder, your gas is working harder, meaning worse fuel efficiency. If you see the temperature gauge rising, turning on your interior heat can paradoxically divert some of the heat from the engine. If the needle hits red, however, stop driving.
Cooling System
The cooling system is your vehicle’s best defense against the heat, and the radiator core keeps your engine from literally melting. If your vehicle runs even a little hot, let your mechanic do a “flow test” to make sure the right coolant is passing through the right tubes. Check the cooling system’s belts and hoses for proper tightness and to identify any cracks. If your air conditioning doesn’t work, that may be a sign that your cooling fan is malfunctioning. Also, make sure your coolant is not too old; waiting too long to change it out can lead to radiator corrosion.
Suspension, Steering, and Transmission
Some of the most important systems in your care are best evaluated by professionals. It is difficult to get to steering and suspension components, but those keep your vehicle attached to your wheels. Ask your mechanic to check the front and rear suspension components, the steering gear, tie rods, and ball joints. Your transmission is another part of your Honda that is stressed during the summer. If you are close to your regular maintenance date for your transmission, schedule a check-up now.
One of the most important things you can do for your Honda is let a professional make sure everything is in working order. Bring your Honda to Hendrick Honda Bradenton, and let our certified Honda mechanics make sure your vehicle is ready for the Florida summer.
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