Russell&Smith Ford Gets Your Car Road Ready For Summer

Winter has passed and temperatures are now nearing extreme highs and no relief until fall, every car owner has to consider the terrible effect that the heat can have on an unserviced vehicle. The service team at Russell&Smith Ford have offered to share this checklist that can save any car owner time, expense, and aggravation this summer.

The obvious first step is to check the tire pressure. As the weather changes the air pressure in the tires changes. Poor tire inflation affects ride quality and safety; remember that an over-inflated tire is just as potentially harmful as an under-inflated tire. Don’t forget to inflate the spare tire and check that the roadside tools (jack, lug-wrench, and wheel lock if necessary) are working properly.

Next make sure all of the fluids are topped off including radiator fluid, engine oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and wiper fluid. Make sure to pay close attention to the HOT and COLD level indicators and only fill to the proper line. Overfilling fluids is wasteful and could lead to premature malfunctions

Check that the battery is completely charged and the battery terminals are free of corrosion. Nothing is worse for a car battery than high heat combined with high humidity. Most auto parts stores will test a battery for free.

An oft-overlooked piece of safe summer driving is the condition of the windshield wipers. There should be no cracks and the steel clips should be clear of the glass surface. A new set of wiper blades costs around $20 and can really take the stress out of summer driving.

Once that is all complete check the serpentine belts for cracks and tightness. A repetitive squeaking is the first warning sign of impending belt failure. This belt typically runs the A/C compressor, alternator, and water pump so keeping a close eye on it can be the difference between a good running car and disaster.

If these tasks seem dauntings bring your car to Russell&Smith Ford’s Service Department. Don’t trust amatuer mechanics. Using OEM parts in a professional shop staffed with factory certified technicians, Russell&Smith Ford can provide a safe and trouble-free summer vacation. There can be lots of stress planning a summer trip, but a solid inspection can provide assurance that your vehicle won’t be a problem.