Summer can bring car trouble all over the United States. In Florida, the problems can be particularly troubling. April is already the hottest on record in Florida, so we are buckling down for a scorcher of a summer. It is vital to take proactive measures to keep your car in good shape during the brutal heat.
Here at Gulf Breeze Automotive, we are here to help the residents of Gulf Breeze and Pensacola with your auto repair needs. Our mechanics are here to get your vehicle summer-ready so you can rest easy knowing you can take whatever Florida throws at you.
4 Tips To Get Your Car Prepared For The Florida Heat
#1 – Protect The Paint
The hot summer sun and the daily torrential downpours during a Florida summer can cause some serious damage to your car’s paint. It is essential to wash and wax your car regularly during the summer months in order to keep it free from grime, dirt, and bugs that would otherwise get baked onto the surface. You can also use sun protection film per your manufacturer’s recommendations to help avoid issues with your paint. If you can, you should park your vehicle in a garage or under some shading to help keep it out of the sun and away from debris like leaves and salt air.
#2 – Protect The Interior
The interior of your vehicle can get incredibly hot in the Florida summer sun. We already know that extreme heat is dangerous for living beings, but it can also cause a lot of issues with your vehicle. While they may look cheesy, a windshield sun protector can really help your vehicle stay cool and protect the expensive leather and electronics inside.
#3 – Prep Your Engine
Your engine uses antifreeze and coolant to stay running smoothly, and it needs these in particular during the summer months so that it doesn’t overheat. Your engine also needs oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. You should ensure that all these fluid levels are good to go before summer really gets going. You should also drain and replace them per the recommended intervals in your manufacturer’s guide.
#4 – Check Your Tires
Hot air rapidly expands, and this can do a number on your tires. A blow-out will be costly, so it is important to check your tire pressure before the summer begins. It is also recommended to fill your tires on the lower end of the recommended spectrum in the summer so that you avoid any issues if your tires get even hotter for any reason.
Now is also the time to check your tire’s tread. The rainy season is upon us and the daily drive home from work will likely be in a torrential downpour. Not having enough tread puts you at risk of hydroplaning. If your tires are still in good shape, it is not a bad idea to have them rotated before the summer kicks off.
If you need help getting your car ready for another brutal Florida summer, the mechanics at Gulf Breeze Automotive are here to help. To make an appointment, call 850-990-0185 today.