The start of summer is fast approaching, and Milex Complete Auto Care can help you have fun in the sun by getting your car ready for warmer temperatures.

Warm weather, hot roads, long car trips, and humidity can damage your vehicle if it isn’t prepared to take the heat. Temperatures this summer are predicted to soar across much of the country, Weather.com reported. While the northeast will be cooler than last year, the northern and central Rockies into the northern and central Plains will be particularly sweltering.

Hot temperatures aren’t preventing Americans from hitting the road for vacations. Americans were forecasted to take 700 million trips last summer, according to research by the American Automobile Association. Although that number was down nearly 15 percent, compared with the summer of 2019, 97 percent of those travelers planned to take a road trip. While the vaccine rollout is giving people the confidence to resume travel, people are still opting to drive to reach their destinations.

There are steps you can take to minimize wear and tear and maximize efficiency during the summer. Milex Complete Auto Care compiled a list of things you should check on your vehicle before the weather heats up.

Air Conditioning

Riding with the windows down may provide a welcome balm of fresh air, but you don’t want to have to rely on the breeze to keep the inside of your car comfortable. For most Americans, getting your air conditioning system checked is put on the back burner once fall rolls around, and it’s overdue for a tune-up. It’s a good idea to take your car to your local Milex Auto Care shop and have their mechanics give your AC the once over before summer gets here. There are some steps you can take at home to ensure your air conditioning is in tip-top form.

1. Test the fans. Start the warm-weather season by turning your AC to low, and then slowly increase the fan speed. Make sure all your vents are blowing cool air.
2. Change your air filter. Change your air filter in May to ensure your AC has the tools to perform at its best.
3. Use the smell test. There is a chance your AC could have mold or bacteria in it and create a foul odor in your car. If you notice an unusual odor when you turn on your AC, take it in for a checkup to make sure it’s clean.
4. Pop the hood. Look under the hood to examine the AC’s coolant. Refrigerant is the compound that allows your air conditioning to produce cool air. Your refrigerant should be clean and free of bubbles or foam. If it has a milky appearance, the liquid needs to be replaced.

Tires

The AC isn’t the only thing that should be checked as temperatures increase, especially before embarking on an extended road trip or driving to the beach. Any change in temperature will cause tire pressure to fluctuate. Make sure your tires are at the recommended PSI so they wear evenly.

Get Oil Changed

Many people put more miles on their cars during the spring and summer months. Make sure to keep up with regular oil changes to keep your car running smoothly and prevent unnecessary wear and tear to the engine. Have the mechanic top off all your car’s fluids, like transmission, brakes, and the windshield wiper fluid, when you get the oil changed to ensure your car can run at peak performance.

Test the Battery

Warm weather is particularly hard on your car’s battery. Running the air conditioning puts a strain on your car’s battery, and you don’t want to be stuck in a parking lot on a scorching hot day if your car doesn’t start. Test the life of your car’s battery by heading to a mechanic or use a multimeter at home to get the job done.

Replace Your Wipers

Winter salt and snow are hard on your wipers. Having wipers that provide a streak-free effect during heavy summer downpours will keep you safe on the road.

Don’t be afraid to pack your suitcase and hit the open road later this summer. By taking easy steps and visiting your local MIlex Auto Care in the coming months, your car will be ready to take you on a much-needed summer escape.