Summer brings road trips, beach getaways, and long drives under blue skies—but it also brings heat, high mileage, and hidden wear on your vehicle. In this month’s blog post, we discuss why you should not put off hot weather maintenance at this time of year and why that delay could take a toll on your vehicle and your wallet. We examine why you should stay on top of oil changes, have periodic inspections of vital components, and service your vehicle’s A/C.
Motor Oil Changes
High temperatures cause engine oil to break down faster, especially during stop-and-go traffic or long hauls. Without timely oil changes, your engine loses protection, leading to friction, overheating, and potential long-term damage. Think of fresh oil as sunscreen for your motor—it’s not glamorous, but it saves you from burns you don’t want.
Component Inspections
Summer heat can wreak havoc on tires, batteries, belts, and hoses. A quick seasonal inspection can catch cracked rubber, worn treads, or a weak battery before they leave you stranded in a parking lot or on the side of the interstate. Consider getting a summer check-up designed to look for heat-related stress.
A/C Checks
It’s not just about staying cool—your air conditioning system helps reduce humidity inside the vehicle, which can keep windows clear and prevent fogging. If your A/C is blowing warm air or making unusual sounds, get it looked at before triple-digit days arrive. The fix might be as simple as recharging refrigerant or replacing a clogged cabin filter.
The Cost of Delay
Skipping summer maintenance is not just a gamble—it’s an invitation for costly repairs. Engines do not appreciate being ignored. Belts snap, tires go bald, and systems fail—usually when you are least prepared.
Instead, think of seasonal upkeep as a favor to your future self. Set reminders, book that oil change, and treat your A/C to a checkup. Your vehicle will thank you—with quiet performance, cool air, and stress-free miles ahead.
If you would like a hot weather check-up for your vehicle, contact the service professionals at Colonial Service Station to schedule an appointment.