Get Ready for Summer!

As an Amazon associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Summer can be extremely hard on a vehicle and it’s components. Not only does the temperature rise dramatically, putting a strain on the engine and the cooling system, but people tend to drive more during summer months (for "day" trips, family vacations, etc.).

Obviously, the combination of increased driving plus higher temperatures during the summer months can lead to major problems down the road. To help in preventing such problems, we've put together a list of items to check before summer arrives so you can spend more time enjoying your car instead of repairing it.

Maintain the air conditioning system

Run the air conditioner several times during the winter months. The only time the air conditioning system is being lubricated is when it is running. This simple step will help you prolong the lifespan of your air conditioning system dramatically.

Check the cooling system

BE SURE to let the engine cool COMPLETELY before checking the cooling system. Engine coolant/antifreeze can reach temperatures above 200ºF (93ºC), and can cause serious burns.

Check the drive belts and radiator hoses

Make a visual check of all drive belts. Look for cracks, splits, fraying edges or glazing. If any of these conditions are noted, replace the belt.

Make a visual check of all radiator hoses. Look for cracks, splits, pinholes or bumps. If any of these conditions are noted, replace the belt.

Squeeze each radiator hose. The hose should feel firm, but flexible. Replace any hose that feels brittle or excessively soft.

Check fluid levels (coolant/antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, etc.)

Remove the radiator cap and check that the radiator is filled to the proper level with the correct mixture of water and coolant/antifreeze. Add coolant as needed.

DO NOT add plain water to the radiator except in case of emergency. Plain water will reduce cooling system efficiency, and can cause rusting and early failure of the radiator, water pump and/or engine. Coolant should be replaced in accordance with the manufacturers stated lifespan. Despite retaining its color, coolant can degrade over time and become much less effective than it was originally. An inexpensive tool, called a “hydrometer”, can be purchased at most Auto Parts stores to check the condition of the coolant/antifreeze.

Other fluids, such as windshield washer and brake fluid, are checked by simply looking at the reservoirs and verifying they are correctly filled (see your vehicle’s “Owner’s Manual” for details).

Check the radiator pressure cap

Make a visual check of the radiator cap, spring and gasket. If the gasket is worn, or the spring looks damaged, replace the cap. If the cap appears to be in good condition, have it pressure tested to verify it can hold the required pressure for your vehicle. Replace the cap if it fails the pressure test.

Check the fan and fan blades

For mechanical (engine-driven) fans: Check the fan blades for straightness. Check for cracks or loose rivets. If any damaged is noted, replace the fan immediately.

For electric fans: Make a visual check of the fan blades. Replace the fan if any damage is found. Check the fan operation with the engine running. If the fan fails to activate when appropriate, have it checked by an authorized repair technician.

Check the fan clutch

Make a visual check of the fan clutch for dirt or oil streaks on the clutch housing. If any streaks are noted, replace the fan clutch immediately.

If the fan clutch passes the visual check above, verify that it is operating properly. BE SURE to wear heat protective gloves when performing these checks.

First, check fan’s “stability” by grasping two fan blades opposite each other (such as the 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock positions) and try to shift the fan from side to side. Any movement in excess of ¼-inch (25 mm) indicates a faulty fan clutch. Replace the fan clutch if it fails the “stability” test.

Finally, start and run the engine until it reaches normal operating temperature, then turn the engine off. Using gloves (fan may be hot!) try to spin the fan with only one finger. The fan should turn no more than twice. Replace the fan if more than two rotations are observed.

Check the water pump

Checking the water pump is typically very simple. Look over the entire body of the water pump to locate a small hole (somewhere around the main portion of the pump). Normally, this hole will leak coolant/ antifreeze when the pump needs to be replaced. If the hole is clean and there is no evidence of leaking, the water pump should be in good condition.

Check for internal leaks

Check the coolant/antifreeze for signs of oil. Carefully remove the radiator cap (be sure engine is cool), and make a visual check of the fluid. If a gray, brown, or white slime is in the radiator is observed, a serious problem may be indicated. Have your vehicle inspected immediately if this type of residue is present.

Even if an oil leak is not indicated, you may not be in the clear just yet. Although rare, another form of internal leak, caused by a failed gasket, can allow engine exhaust to make it’s way into the coolant. The easiest way to check for this condition is to have a service technician check the pressure and integrity of your vehicle’s coolant system.

Check the vehicle’s brakes

Because there are many different types of brake systems on today's vehicles, always refer to the manufacturer's service manual for your vehicle before attempting to check, service or repair your brakes. Your best bet is to have the brakes inspected and serviced by a qualified service technician.

Check the tires

The minimum tread depth that is considered safe and acceptable is 1/16-inch. Fortunately, there are a couple of simple ways to check tire tread depth. The first, and most accurate way, is to measure tread depth with a tread depth gauge. This method is extremely accurate, however, not everyone has access to this type of gauge.

The second method uses a more commonly available item (just check your pocket!). Simply take a penny and insert into the grooves of the tread, with Abe Lincoln’s head pointing down. If the top of Abe’s head is visible, then the tire needs to be replaced. If the top of Abe’s head is covered by the tread, then the tire should still have adequate tread remaining.

Check all lights, turn signals, etc

Almost all the lights can be checked by yourself. Simply turn the ignition key "on" (you don't need to start the engine), turn the headlights on, and walk around vehicle to ensure all lights are working. Actuate the turn signals, and make sure they work properly at both the front and rear of the vehicle.

A helper is needed to check the brake lights. Have the helper press the brake pedal while you stand behind the car. Make sure the brake lights come on when the brake pedal is pressed, and turn off when the brake pedal is released. If any lights are not functioning correctly, see the manufacturer's service manual for your vehicle for proper removal and installation steps.

Back to Blog Academy