Summer may be the season for road trips, but it’s also one of the most demanding times of year for your vehicle. High temperatures, stop-and-go traffic, and increased travel all put extra stress on your engine, tires, and fluids. That’s why preventative maintenance becomes even more important in hot weather.
At Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions, we want our customers to stay safe and avoid unexpected breakdowns—especially during the hottest months of the year. Here’s why summer maintenance matters and what you should be checking right now.
1. Your Engine Works Harder in the Heat
Your car’s engine generates a lot of heat even in winter. Add soaring summer temperatures, and it’s under serious stress. Without regular maintenance, components like your radiator, belts, and hoses can fail—leaving you stranded with an overheated engine.
Preventative tips:
- Check coolant levels regularly
- Have your radiator flushed if it’s been over 2 years
- Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or soft spots
2. Battery Failure Is More Common in Summer
Many drivers think cold weather is hardest on car batteries—but heat is just as damaging, if not more. High temps accelerate internal corrosion and evaporation of battery fluid, which can shorten battery life.
Preventative tips:
- Have your battery tested during routine service
- Check for signs of corrosion on terminals
- Replace it if it’s more than 3–4 years old
3. Tires Are Under More Pressure—Literally
Hot pavement and rising temperatures can cause tire pressure to increase rapidly, which raises the risk of blowouts—especially on older or underinflated tires. Combine that with long drives, and you’ve got a recipe for roadside trouble.
Preventative tips:
- Check tire pressure at least once a month
- Inspect tread for wear and sidewalls for cracking
- Rotate tires regularly for even wear
4. Fluids Are Your Car’s Cooling System
From oil to transmission fluid, your vehicle relies on a range of fluids to keep things running smoothly. In hot weather, these fluids break down faster and can’t protect your engine as effectively if levels are low or the fluid is old.
Preventative tips:
- Stay up to date on oil changes
- Check brake, power steering, and transmission fluids
- Top off or flush systems as recommended by your owner’s manual
5. Your A/C System Needs Attention Too
Driving without air conditioning in the summer isn’t just uncomfortable—it can be dangerous, especially for kids or pets. An underperforming A/C system may indicate a refrigerant leak or failing compressor.
Preventative tips:
- Have your A/C system inspected if it’s blowing warm
- Look out for odd smells, weak airflow, or strange noises
- Don’t ignore refrigerant leaks—they’ll only get worse
Don’t Wait for a Breakdown to Take Action
Summer heat doesn’t just affect your comfort—it can affect your car’s performance, safety, and longevity. Preventative maintenance is your best defense against breakdowns, expensive repairs, and ruined travel plans.
At Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions, we offer comprehensive summer maintenance services, from fluid checks to A/C inspections, tire evaluations, battery testing, and more. So if you’re ready for a worry-free summer behind the wheel, schedule your seasonal maintenance check today at Ken’s Automotive & Transmissions in Frederick, MD—and drive with confidence, no matter how high the temperature climbs.
