Most car owners are unaware of the fact that their car, too, is affected by seasonal changes. People who drive in regions with extreme climate will know the struggle of endless attempts to start the car on a chilly winter morning. And, during summers, the last thing a car owner would want to see is ‘Overheat’ warning light flashing at him while stuck in a traffic jam with sun shining over head.
In Melbourne, Australia, summers have already arrived and are going to be there till March. So, if you own a car that you often drive during warmer time of the day, here are a few things you should regularly keep a check on to avoid inconveniences.
Fluid Level in Radiator
During summers, the fluid level in the radiator is expected to go down more often than not. This could be due to intense environmental heat, causing water in the cooling system to escape in the form of vapours. Though the radiator cap maintains desired pressure level to keep water from boiling, but if there is a tiny hole anywhere within the system, the radiator will lose the fluid faster than it should be. So, make sure you keep checking your coolant level on a regular basis and in case you find the level has dropped, get it checked by a trusted mechanic to save yourself from the uncalled hassles. And, do not forget to prepare a 50-50 mix of coolant and water for maximum efficiency of your engine’s cooling system.
Window Tinting
Melbourne summers can be harsh – not only because of the soaring temperature but also because of the harmful U.V rays that become more intense during warmer months. To protect yourself from the effect of UV rays while on the move is to get car tinting in Melbourne. Tinting is done on windows and windscreen to ward off sun and its atrocity so that you and your family can travel around in your car without worrying about getting skin rashes. Having your car’s windows tinted will also help air conditioning system to cool the cockpit faster.
Air Pressure in Tires
During summers, asphalt road can hot up to 90 degree Celsius and this high temperature can alter air pressure in the tires. The higher the temperature, the more will be the air pressure in your tires after driving a mile or two. Therefore, during summers, it is advisable to keep the air pressure in tires a little lower than usual. This will prevent tires from deforming or bursting unexpectedly. You should know that once the tire is deformed, there’s no way back; you will have to get a new one.
Freon
During warmer months, you will want your air conditioning system to provide maximum cooling and this can be achieved by filling more freon in the compressor than the recommended level. While there is no harm in exceeding the recommended level, you must consult with your car AC specialist before taking this advice. Extra cooling will help quickly offset the greenhouse effect, which takes place due to your car parked under the sun for long.
Water Bottle
Most of us carry a water bottle in the car. While you park your car in an open parking lot and leave the bottle inside for a few hours, it is advisable not to drink from that bottle after it has absorbed the heat. Upon heating, plastic bottles release their molecules into the containing water and make it unfit for drinking. So, make sure that you or anyone traveling with you do not drink water from the bottle that has been there in your car for more than a day.
Conclusion
Cars offer a great deal of relief during scorching summers, and it’s your duty to be equally considerate of its maintenance. If you take care of the aforementioned things, you will never have to bear the inconveniences most car owners complain about.
