As the cold winter weather fades and spring and summer take over in Illinois, many drivers breathe a sigh of relief. No more ice, snow, or salt-covered roads. But while warmer months bring better driving conditions, they also introduce new challenges for your vehicle. Heat, longer trips, and the wear from previous seasons can all add up quickly.
At Pit Shop Auto Repair in Lombard, we encourage drivers to view the spring and summer months as the perfect time to catch up on—or stay ahead of—important maintenance. Here’s why preventative care matters now more than ever.
Summer Heat Can Strain Your Engine
Your vehicle’s engine generates heat every time it runs. Add hot pavement and rising temperatures, and you’ve got a recipe for overheating—especially if your cooling system isn’t in top condition.
Warm weather can cause:
- Faster evaporation of engine fluids
- Overheating due to low coolant or worn-out radiator components
- Cracked hoses and brittle belts
By scheduling regular oil changes, coolant flushes, and inspections, you ensure your engine stays cool, even on the hottest days.
Tire Pressure Changes with Temperature
Tire pressure naturally fluctuates with temperature changes. As the weather warms, tire pressure often increases, which can lead to overinflated tires. This reduces traction and increases the risk of blowouts, especially at highway speeds.
At the same time, worn tread from winter driving can reduce your tires’ effectiveness, especially in spring and summer rainstorms. Checking pressure and tread depth regularly keeps your vehicle safe and your fuel efficiency optimized.
Your Battery May Be Weaker Than You Think
While cold weather is known for draining batteries, heat can be even tougher on them. Warmer temperatures can speed up chemical reactions inside the battery, leading to a shorter lifespan and potential failure.
At Pit Shop Auto Repair, we recommend testing your battery at the start of the season and cleaning any corrosion from terminals to prevent unexpected breakdowns.
Air Conditioning Is a Summer Necessity
When temperatures rise, your air conditioning system becomes essential for comfort and safety. If you haven’t used your AC in months, now’s the time to check it.
Preventative maintenance can:
- Identify refrigerant leaks
- Ensure the blower motor and condenser are working properly
- Prevent complete AC failure during the hottest part of summer
There’s nothing worse than discovering your air conditioning doesn’t work during a heatwave or long road trip.
Longer Trips Mean More Wear and Tear
Summer often means vacations, weekend getaways, and longer daily drives. More miles mean more stress on your brakes, tires, suspension, and fluids. Preventative maintenance helps catch small problems before they become major repairs, keeping your summer plans on track.
Regular brake inspections, tire rotations, and fluid checks ensure your vehicle can handle the extra mileage.
Why Preventative Maintenance Saves You Money
It might seem like regular maintenance costs add up, but the truth is, preventative care saves money in the long run.Addressing minor issues early can prevent expensive breakdowns, tow charges, and even costly engine or transmission replacements.
It also helps maintain your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and extends the overall lifespan of your car, truck, or SUV.
Trust Pit Shop Auto Repair in Lombard for Summer Maintenance
At Pit Shop Auto Repair, we specialize in helping drivers in Lombard, IL, keep their vehicles running smoothly year-round. Our experienced technicians can create a customized preventative maintenance plan based on your driving habits, vehicle type, and seasonal needs. Schedule your summer maintenance appointment today and enjoy peace of mind all season long. Don’t wait until a small problem turns into a major repair—stay ahead with Pit Shop Auto Repair.
