While crews aim to get motorists back on the go, without having to tow them, the heat can lead to more electrical and cooling system breakdowns and more cars being towed as a result.
AAA automotive experts say many of these breakdowns can be prevented with the following routine maintenance:
Check tire pressure and condition monthly: Changes in temperature can affect tire pressure, which can cause uneven wear and shorten the life of a tire. In addition, worn tires can't grip the road during wet weather conditions, which can lead to hydroplaning.
Check battery twice a year: Vehicle batteries typically last three to five years. Heat degrades a battery's interior components of and shortens its life. Depending on the demands of the vehicle electrical system and driving habits, prolonged heat can even be harder on a battery than cold.
Maintain engine cooling system: Cooling systems must work extra hard during hot weather to keep engines from overheating. Coolant protects the radiator and internal engine components. Over time coolant degrades, and needs to be changed. Neglecting this can lead to long-term engine damage. Rubber cooling system components will also deteriorate in extreme heat. Motorists should inspect hoses and drive belts for cracking, bulges, soft spots or other signs of poor condition.
Top off fluids: Most fluids not only lubricate, but also serve as coolants by carrying heat away from critical engine components. When fluid levels are low, this cooling effect is reduced, and the probability of overheating increases. It's important to keep up on routine oil changes, as reputable shops will also inspect other fluid levels when changing the oil.
Even with proper maintenance, summer breakdowns can still occur. Just as motorists prepare an emergency kit for their cars during winter driving conditions, they should also be ready for the summer driving conditions. Back-ups and delays caused by heavy traffic volume or vehicle crashes can result in drivers being stranded on the highway for extended periods of time.
AAA fleet supervisor Mike Sharp offers these important safety tips to keep drivers safe:
• During the summer months drivers should carry a minimum of five bottles of water for each person in the vehicle.
• Carry a windshield sun shade in your vehicle to provide some protection from the sun.
• If traffic is not moving, then do not use the accessory setting to listen to the radio or use any other devices that could drain the car battery.
• While running the air conditioner drivers should keep an eye on the dash. If the vehicle starts to overheat, then shut it off immediately and open the hood to allow the engine to cool off. The vehicle may need to be off for a minimum of 45 minutes. When restarting the vehicle leave the hood open.
• If you cannot operate the vehicle’s air conditioning, then open windows on both sides of the car to cross ventilate.
• Staying in your vehicle is usually the safest option. If however the heat becomes too oppressive and traffic shows no signs of moving, then consider seeking shelter in the shade. If there are trees or an overpass nearby that would provide shade, take a break and give your body time to cool off.
About the Author