Summers can get pretty hot here in Iowa, and the last thing you want is to be that guy or girl parked on the side of the road, steam pouring out from under your vehicle’s hood, helplessly waiting for things to cool off so you can get back to your day. This is one situation where an ounce of prevention is truly worth a pound of cure, so we’ve compiled a list of tips for you to use to avoid an overheated car this summer.
1 - Check Your Coolant - Engine overheating is often caused by something completely avoidable - running out of antifreeze. Make a point of checking your levels often, but especially as the outdoor temperatures start to climb. If you can’t remember when you last replaced your coolant, now is a good time to do just that. A great practice is to have your coolant checked when you get your oil changed. This is definitely a job for a trained mechanic, as most states have strict rules for disposal of used radiator fluid.
2 - Check Your Drive Belt - The drive belt performs many functions, including driving the water pump for your alternator. If the belt breaks, your water pump stops functioning, your coolant stops circulating, and your vehicle will likely overheat within a matter of minutes. Next time you’re at your service station, have the technician check your drive belt for signs of wear and tear, including tears, nicks, or cracking. Catching and replacing a deteriorating belt before it fails will help keep your engine from overheating and leaving you stranded roadside.
3 - Check Your Radiator - Dirt, leaves, and road debris can build up in front of your radiator, blocking air and increasing the chances of overheating. Your radiator cap, whose job it is to keep the pressure regulated, can crack or loosen, leading to possible overheating. Be sure to only check the radiator cap when the car is cool, never when the engine has been running.
4 - What To Do If Your Vehicle Does Overheat - If, despite your best efforts, your vehicle overheats on the road, it’s important to pull over as soon as it is safe to do so, as driving an overheated engine can lead to very expensive repairs. Turn your engine off, open the hood, and allow the engine to cool off. Never try to take the radiator cap off while it is hot, as the sudden release of pressure and hot fluid can lead to some very nasty burns.
Have fun on the road this summer! For more summer driving tips see the great information that AAA offers. If your trailers needs any servicing Terry’s Auto Body & Trailer Sales is here to help! Give is a call at 641-985-2536 and follow us on Facebook.
