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Take good care of your car on a regular basis to help avoid any problems this summer. Happy car = happy passengers and a very happy driver. One of the ways you can ensure that your passengers have enjoyable car rides this summer is by making sure that your car doesn’t overheat.
Here are a few precautions you should consistently keep tabs on to help prevent overheating. So put in a little extra effort now and make sure your auto insurance is up to date so your vehicle can do its best job.
1. Coolant Level
Engine coolant is the fluid that runs through your engine to regulate the operating temperature. If the level is below the minimum mark on the reservoir, then the engine is at risk of overheating. Low coolant level may also mean there is a leak requiring inspection by a professional technician.
2. Temperature Gauge
Your vehicle likely has many gauges and indicator lights to warn you of any issues. These offer very valuable information into the health of your vehicle. Use the temperature gauge to see if the engine is starting to run too warm, which could be indicative of a problem.
3. Regular Coolant Flushes
Coolant flushes are generally part of the routine maintenance schedule. Be sure these maintenance services are performed completely and on a regular basis. If coolant flushes are not part of your scheduled maintenance, it is crucial to at least change your coolant. If the manufacturer doesn’t specify an interval, or it seems too long, consider doing it every 50,000 miles or 5 years, whichever comes first.
4. Air Conditioning and Heater Usage
Using your air conditioner when it’s extremely hot outside can actually cause your vehicle to overheat. The running of air conditioning places a lot of extra strain on the engine. The harder work increases the temperature. As engines heat up, so does the coolant that is supposed to be regulating temperature. If it’s very hot outside, the coolant can’t release heat as fast.
If your engine does start to overheat, turn your heater on max temperature and max speed to help cool it down. The heater core is heated by engine coolant, so turning the heat and blower motor to max has the same effect as air flowing across the radiator.
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5. Sun Protection
Leaving your car parked in the hot sun is one of the fastest ways to lead to a hot interior. If possible, park your car indoors or in the shade during the hottest time of the day. If that isn’t possible for you, place a sunshade in your windshield while your car is parked outdoors. Trust us: your car (and your passengers) will thank you.
6. Inspections
Have your vehicle thoroughly inspected often and especially before any big road trips or strenuous drives.
A mechanic should check the entire car for damage or any other potential problems, including:
- Hoses
- Belts
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Tires
- Cooling system components
- Engine components
Don’t wait for a disaster to strike. Speak to a South Carolina car insurance agent about how you can be protected if something were to go wrong.
About Carolina Property and Casualty:
At CP&C, we offer auto insurance solutions that can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you have an old classic or a brand-new model, we have the right coverage for you. To learn more about our products, contact us today!
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