Tips for Extending the Life of Your Vehicle in the Florida Heat
How Does Extreme Heat Effect Cars
With summer weather rolling in, Florida vehicles are faced with scorching temperatures. From uneven tire pressure to battery functions suffering, each element of your car must work harder than normal leading to more wear. All the extra heat can lead to complications that ultimately reduce your engine’s performance and life.
9 Ways to Protect Your Car from Heat
Find out the best ways to combat the Florida heat by reading our pro tips below.
1. Monitor Fluid Levels
Evaporation is an increased threat during hot weather, straining your car even further There a few key fluids to keep an eye on for your car’s health:
- Motor oil – Keeping up with regular oil changes will improve your car’s efficiency and safety.
- Coolant – Conduct a quick check and top it up — unless it’s cloudy, then replace it.
- Transmission fluid – When you go in for regular maintenance, ask your mechanic to flush your transmission fluid.
2. Get Your Car Waxed
Sealants and waxes are effective ways to protect your car’s paint from heat damage. This is especially important if you don’t have a shaded parking car. Next time you have your car washed, wax can be added on as a preventative measure.
3. Test Your Battery
The chemical processes that enable the battery to function are significantly impacted by heat. On top of this, your air conditioning puts extra strain on your battery. You can have your mechanic run a battery test next time you go in for an oil change.
4. Monitor the Tire Pressure
Just as cold temperatures cause tires to lose pressure, hot temperatures cause pressure to rise. The easiest way to keep up with it is to check the pressure and refill the air if needed at the gas station.
5. Take Care of Your AC
Your air conditioning is vital to comfort in the Florida summer. To help the AC system combat rising temperatures, it’s important to change the air filter and check the refrigerant.
6. Wash Your Car Regularly
Any bugs or dirt that land on your vehicle will end up baked onto the exterior if they aren’t cleaned in a timely matter. This can lead to paint damage and cracking that’s costly to repair. Instead, keep up a good cleaning routine and look out for debris on your vehicle.
7. Park in the Shade
If you have the ability to park in the shade, take full advantage of it. Months of full-day sun exposure is damaging to your whole vehicle but especially the paint. Another tip to remember is to keep your sunroof closed when possible.
8. Invest in Seat Covers or a Car Cover
A way to prolong your car’s lifetime if you’re unable to park in the shade is to use seat covers or a car cover. Seat covers have the added benefit of protecting from accidental spills and daily wear, and car covers can protect from the unpredictable weather of Florida.
9. Consider Getting Window Tints – UV Protective
An alternative to covers is UV protective window tints. If you decide to go with a window tint, make sure to verify that it has UV protection or you’ll end up with a purely cosmetic tint that won’t help with sun damage.
Consult City Auto for Your Summer Car Needs
When you purchase a car, you’re looking for a long term investment. The Florida heat can shorten the lifetime of your car if you aren’t aware of the necessary, preventative care.
Don’t wait until your paint is damaged or your battery has died to reach out for help. Contact our team to stay ahead of the summer heat and ensure your car is ready for all of your adventures!