Five ways to prevent your vehicle from getting scorched

THORNHILL, ON, June 30, 2014 /CNW/ - During the summer months, the scorching sun and rising humidity can cause your vehicle to break down due to overheating. This season, avoid being left on the side of the road with these preventative measures which will help keep your vehicle running smoothly in the hot weather:

1. Coolant –  

Flush your cooling system with fresh coolant periodically, because it can deteriorate over time and can become acidic. This acidity can eat away at hoses and seals, cause damage and overheat your engine. 

2. Air conditioning – 

If your vehicle's air conditioning is not maintaining the interior temperature as well as it once did, it may mean the refrigerant level is low. Have your air conditioning system inspected by a certified technician.

3. Battery – 

Extreme heat can weaken a vehicle battery and shorten its lifespan. It's best to have a charging system test performed to check, not only the battery, but the entire electrical system of your vehicle.

4. Tires – 

Driving with improperly inflated tires affects the handling and braking of a vehicle, it can also cause tires to overheat and increase the chance of a blowout. Tire pressure should be checked when the car has not been driven recently and should be inflated to the manufacturer's recommendations.

5. Maintenance –  

Performing regularly scheduled maintenance, such as oil changes, or having a full mechanical inspection is recommended as the seasons change.

Meanwhile, the summer months are typically the second busiest time of the year for CAA South Central Ontario (CAA SCO). The auto club experiences a spike in battery-related calls and lock out service requests during July and August.

For over a hundred years, CAA has been helping Canadians stay mobile, safe and protected.  CAA South Central Ontario is one of nine auto clubs across Canada providing roadside assistance, automotive care, travel products, insurance services and member savings for more than 1.9 million members.

SOURCE: CAA South Central Ontario

Media Contact: Silvana Aceto, Media & PR Consultant, 60 Commerce Valley Drive East, Thornhill, ON L3T 7P9, [email protected], Office: [phone], Cell: [phone]