When heat advisories are in the air, it’s a sign to take extra precautions to stay cool wherever you are, including in your car. All types of vehicles can be susceptible to heat-related issues under certain circumstances—affecting both the functionality of the vehicle and the safety of those who are in it.
As temperatures throughout Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding suburbs soar, take extra steps to protect yourself and your vehicle.
Are Older Cars More Susceptible to Heat-Related Problems?
There’s no shame in driving that old 90s pick-up. It comes with so many great memories! But there’s also an elevated risk of heat-related issues the more you drive it. As vehicles age, so do all the key components that keep engines functioning as they should. It also gets harder to allow the flow of cooler air throughout the vehicle, as you surely know if your wheels are more vintage than modern.
New cars can overheat, too. No matter what you drive, making sure it’s humming during extreme heat will help keep you and your passengers safe while out on the road.
How Can You Keep Your Car From Overheating in Summer?
Don’t wait for problems to cast a cloud over your summer fun. Start with these five simple steps:
1. Examine your engine at least once a month.
Check your engine frequently, more often if you’ve had problems in the past or go on a lot of long drives. This process can involve a few steps, including checking your oil levels, keeping an eye on the check engine light, listening for unusual noises, and making note of any other signs that things aren’t in tip top shape.
2. Replenish coolant and other fluids.
Coolant is particularly vital to a well-functioning engine on steamy days. Its role is to circulate throughout the engine, regulating the temperature of internal parts by reducing heat (and avoiding freezes in the winter). Along with oil, coolant also helps keep things lubricated. Check your fluid levels and be sure they’re not dipping too low.
3. Inspect the radiator and hoses.
Some people overlook the importance of this one in summertime. However, it’s not like the radiator in homes that aren’t in use this time of year. Through years of driving, the radiator and parts that connect to it can sustain damage that should be addressed. Otherwise, typical wear and tear can keep the coolant from circulating as it should.
Have a mechanic examine it and other crucial components. Owners of older cars may want to flush their radiator regularly to reduce the buildup of debris.
4. Watch where you park.
Spend an extra minute to find parking spots that will be in the shade longer. It does make a difference. The interiors of cars can reach well over a hundred degrees, making it much hotter than if you find a nice shady spot and leave the windows cracked open. Your car will thank you.
5. Remain patient and avoid driving during the hottest hours.
Finally, keep in mind that how you drive matters, in more ways than one. Staying calm behind the wheel not only avoids accidents and keeps your car in better shape, but it helps keep things at lower temperatures. Meanwhile, aggressive driving habits put a strain on engines, another source of internal heat you don’t need.
Cash2Go Helps Drivers Stay Up to Date All Year
Don’t get caught on the road without up to date plates! Before your next road trip, take care of all your auto licensing needs at your nearest Cash2Go Financial location. We make registration and other routine tasks simple so you’re in and out in no time.
Give us a call at 847-269-2274 with any questions about fees or documentation
