You may not have any summer road trips planned just yet, but with all this extra time at home you’re bound to be daydreaming of all the things you can do outside of the house once summer rolls around. Getting your vehicle in it’s best shape before the Maryland heat arrives will help ensure your future travels are safe and comfortable. Here are some important auto maintenance tips to use in the coming months:
Tip #1 – Check Your Oil
Skipping oil changes can lead to engine problems that have the potential to leave you stranded on the road. If your vehicle uses conventional motor oil, we recommend changing the oil every 3,000 miles. For vehicles using synthetic oil, it’s best to bring your vehicle into a Maryland auto maintenance shop every 5,000 miles for an oil change.
Checking your oil levels on your own is simple and can be completed right in the driveway:
- Remove the dipstick.
- Wipe it clean with a rag.
- Insert the dipstick back into the pipe.
- Remove the dipstick once again.
- Visibly assess how high the oil reaches on the end of the stick.
If the oil is only near the bottom tip of the dipstick, that’s a sign you’re running low and should get an oil change as soon as possible.
Tip #2 – Check Your Vehicle’s Coolant
Due to the Maryland heat, your car’s radiator will be working overtime during the summer months. Coolant keeps your vehicle from overheating, prevents corrosion, and lubricates the water pump in order to ensure your radiator operates well under pressure. Over time, this solution will degrade and lose effectiveness, so you should have your vehicle’s coolant changed every 2-3 years.
Tip #3 – Check Your Battery
Winter is known for being especially hard on car batteries, but summer heat can do similar damage. It’s best to get your car’s battery replaced every 3 years or so, but harsh temperatures can lead to premature failure. Check your battery’s charge and condition at home using a multimeter, or bring it in to your local auto maintenance shop to have a professional take a look.
Tip #4 – Check Your Car’s A/C
No one likes getting stuck on a road trip in a vehicle with a malfunctioning air conditioning system. Taking preemptive action and having your car’s A/C system checked by an auto repair specialist can help you keep the cool air blowing all summer long.
Tip #5 – Check Your Tires
It’s widely known that you should always check your vehicle’s tire pressure before heading out on a long trip, no matter what time of year it is. Although your car might have a sensor that indicates when you have low tire pressure, it’s important to check the PSI levels manually at home or at a nearby gas station and ensure each tire has the manufacturer’s recommended amount of air before you begin your journey. This will help you avoid an accident or unexpected tire blowout when you’re on the road this summer.
Your Best Choice for Maryland Auto Maintenance
At Choisser Import Auto Services, we’re dedicated to making sure your vehicle performs its very best while keeping you safe on the road. If you’re a Honda, Acura, Lexus, or Toyota driver, bring your vehicle into our Maryland auto maintenance shop for routine maintenance or contact us to schedule a repair today.