6 ways to summer-proof your car

FRIDAY last week saw the temperature rise to 40 degrees Celsius, making it the hottest day of the year so far. This takes a toll on your car as its various systems strain to keep the heat at bay.

Here are some ways to help your car run safely and smoothly even under the scorching sun.

Radiator. The most important component to check in preparation for summer heat is the cooling system. The main part here is the radiator. It should be kept clean and unclogged.
Accumulated dirt and rust may already be in the radiator, so it’s a good time to consider having it flushed and cleaned.

Replace the coolant with a reliable brand capable of transferring heat without boiling over.
If you’re going to dilute concentrated coolant with water, use distilled water.

Check if the radiator fans are running once the engine reaches its operating temperature, or around the middle of your car’s temperature gauge (if it still has one).

In case you do experience an overheating situation, know what to do by reading the owner’s manual. Operating the heater may help cool the engine.

Never remove the radiator cap to add water while the engine is running as this may cause hot coolant to scald you. Add fluid only via the reservoir.

Air-conditioning. Driving anywhere would be unbearable if the air-conditioner suddenly stops working. Following Murphy’s law, it usually conks out on the hottest time of the day.
According to the Automobile Association of America, a vehicle without air-conditioning can be a hot and potentially dangerous environment for travelers during the summer months.

Automotive air-conditioning systems do not require routine maintenance, but a system that is operating marginally is more likely to fail in hot weather.

If you have noticed a decrease in cooling capability, have your air-conditioning system examined by a qualified technician before setting out on a trip.

Have the air-conditioning system checked for leaks, as this is the main cause of failure. After checking for leaks, if it is low on refrigerant (previously known as freon). have it refilled. This will ensure that your air-conditioner provides cool air and not warm dog breath from the vents.

Tint. One effective way to keep the car’s interior cooler is by installing tint. Not just any old brand being waved by vendors as you drive along Banawe. These are likely to turn eggplant purple and develop air bubbles before you can say, “Ang init!”
From experience, Vkool tint is very effective in repelling solar heat. Vkool uses a proprietary process of suspending metal particles within the film, resulting in an equivalent sun protection factor (SPF) of 200. Your skin (your own and your leather seats) will thank you for it, too.

Tires. Even as the concrete becomes nearly hot enough to fry an egg, your tires can cope with it—if they are properly inflated. Underinflated tires are more likely to overheat and fail.

Parking. Choose a parking spot that’s covered or at least shaded. This will keep the interior cooler and won’t tax the air-conditioning as much, once you get moving.

Keep the driver cool as well. Even as you prepare your car for summer, remember to bring water to keep the driver and occupants hydrated especially during a long trip.
Air-conditioning may make you feel cool, but you still need to replenish fluids.