How to prepare your car for summer?

When the difference between the operating temperature of the engine and the ambient temperature decreases, a microcrack in the radiator pipe or a dirty air filter can significantly increase fuel consumption, and in the worst case, lead to engine overheating. What systems and components should be checked at a service center before the start of the summer season?

Preparing your car for the summer season
— Checking the cooling system

The greatest risks are associated with engine overheating, so in service centers, preparing a car for summer usually begins with checking the radiator, coolant pump, fan, thermostat, condition of pipes and hoses, and coolant level.

     A dirty radiator reduces heat transfer efficiency
     Rubber hoses of the cooling system are most vulnerable to temperature changes and increased loads; they are checked for cracks, leaks and reliability of fastening.
     When preparing a car for summer, the coolant level is measured; if it is insufficient to maintain the required temperature, a replacement is made.

— Checking the brake system

At high temperatures, the risk of overheating of the brake system increases: the pads and discs heat up more during braking. The heat generated by friction from pressing the brake pedal hard and for long periods of time can cause the brake fluid to boil. Therefore, it is advisable to check the level and condition of the brake fluid at a service center.

The second important aspect is checking the tightness of the brake hoses and replacing them if there are signs of microdamage or wear. In general, if you notice that when you press the brake, atypical sounds appear (creaking, grinding), it is better not to postpone a visit to the service center for the sake of safety on the road.
— Battery check

In 30-degree heat, increased evaporation of electrolyte occurs, so when preparing for summer, experts recommend checking the battery. The higher the temperature, the more intense the chemical reactions in the battery, so you should make sure that the electrolyte level is normal, the electrical system does not allow the battery to overcharge, and the terminals are clean.
— Replacement of filters

An air filter clogged with contaminants can increase gas mileage by 10%. In winter, filters become dirty faster than in summer, and on dirt roads faster than on asphalt roads. Considering the increased load on the engine at high temperatures, it is recommended to check the condition of the filter before the start of the season - an unscheduled replacement may be required.

If you plan to change the oil from all-season to a more viscous summer oil, you must immediately replace the oil filter. Service centers usually check the condition of the cabin filter when servicing the air conditioner - a clogged filter disrupts the air flow. If the filter is dirty, it makes sense to replace it earlier than the formal replacement date according to the maintenance schedule, for the sake of cleanliness of the air circulating in the cabin.
— Tire check

When the air temperature increases by 10 °C, the tire pressure changes by 7-14 kPa. Excessive pressure leads to reduced contact with the road, insufficient pressure leads to increased load on the sidewalls. If your tire tread is worn out, it can cause handling problems. Therefore, it is better to additionally check the tire balancing at a service center.
— Air conditioner maintenance

Checking the quality of the air conditioner is simple - if the temperature outside is 30 °C, the air conditioner should maintain a temperature in the cabin 10 °C lower, that is, 20 °C with minimum temperature settings and maximum air flow. If this does not happen, diagnostics are needed. In most cases, the problem is solved by topping up the refrigerant and replacing the cabin filter. What you can do yourself: reconfigure the climate control system so as not to direct the air flow to the windshield; this is not necessary in the summer.
— Replacing wipers

At dusk and at night, rain reduces visibility to 5 m. If you drive your car into a summer thunderstorm, the wipers should work flawlessly, but after the winter season it’s difficult to count on this - most likely there will be streaks and stains on the glass. With sudden changes in temperature, the fastenings of the wipers weaken, the rubber bands wear out and lose their elasticity. It is worth checking the condition of the brushes and fasteners; if you see damage, replace the wipers on your first visit to the service center.
— Care of paintwork and glass

After traveling outside the city, minor damage to the paintwork and traces of insects may appear on the car body, which at speed crash into the windshield and paintwork. If you want to protect your car, your summer preparation plan should include glass polishing and anti-rain coating treatment - this way traces of insects can be washed off with a regular high-pressure washer. To make car body care easier, the service center may offer you restorative and protective polishing, polymer coatings or the application of a protective film.
Basic preparation of a car for summer

— Check with

cooling systems, especially pipes and fastenings;

— Checking the brake system;

— Inspection of the battery and cleaning of terminals from oxides;

— Checking the quality of the air conditioner;

— Replacement of wipers damaged during the winter;

— Remember: in order to maintain the car’s warranty, all work must be performed in a specialized service center.