Summer heat can be fun for drivers, but it’s also hard on vehicles. Two local garage owners and experts at Canada Drives say summer car maintenance is simple, important and often overlooked.
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“At Tirecraft, one of the most important things drivers should check … is all the wear and tear on your tires,” said Bart Prochera, owner and manager at Tirecraft. “Whatever tires you have, make sure they are going to last you through the summer.
Canada Drives agrees, calling tires “one of the most common causes of vehicle breakdowns.” It urges drivers to check tire pressure, tread depth, and for any uneven wear. Uneven tread may also be a sign of a mechanical issue, something Prochera sees, too.
“If your tires are wearing uneven, then you do have a mechanical problem somewhere else,” he said.
Cracks in sidewalls, low tread and poor air pressure can all be warning signs.
“You should be looking for cracking on the side walls, on the face of the tire. Make sure there’s enough tread wear left, going by your treadwear indicators,” said Prochera.
Tire pressure is also key. Canada Drives says pressure rises in summer heat, which can hurt handling and wear tires faster.
Robert Herle, owner and manager at Herle’s Truck and Auto Specialists, also puts tires at the top of his summer checklist. “Tire is No. 1, tire wear, tire pressure etc.” he said.
Both owners say fluid levels and belts matter, too.
“Main thing … make sure all your fluid levels are topped up, belts are checked,” said Prochera.
He warns summer heat can lead to overheating.
“In regards to fluid levels, the vehicle can heat up if you don’t have the right coolant. That’d be the main thing that would cause your problems.”
Herle gave similar advice before heading out on long trips over the warmer months.
“Make sure you’ve had an oil change in your car, you have checked fluids and check your belts, your hoses,” he said.
Canada Drives also recommends checking coolant, oil, brake fluid and
transmission fluid. A full fluid check helps keep the engine cool and protects the car on longer trips.
Before heading out in the hot weather, Prochera notes, it’s important to make sure vehicle occupants are able to stay cool.
“Air conditioning would be a major concern,” he said.
Canada Drives adds weak AC might mean a leak, and fixing it early could also save fuel. A properly working system helps avoid strain on the engine and keeps drivers comfortable in long traffic or hot weather.
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