Indonesia is known for its warm tropical climate all year round. This hot weather can have an impact on various aspects of life, including your vehicle. It is important for car owners to understand how hot weather affects their car and how to maintain it to keep it in optimal condition. Here are some tips that can help you keep your car in tip-top shape during the summer.
High temperatures can cause the car engine to overheat easily. When the ambient temperature rises, the car engine has to work harder to maintain optimal operating temperatures. Overheating if not treated immediately: Overheating can cause serious damage to the engine, such as damage to the cylinder head, leaking gaskets, and damage to other internal components. This can lead to expensive repairs and potential permanent damage to the machine.
Excessive heat can accelerate the decline in engine oil quality: Engine oil functions to lubricate and protect engine components from friction and heat. At high temperatures, oil tends to become thinner and loses its lubricating ability. Damaged engine oil does not protect the engine properly: Decreased oil quality can cause increased friction between engine components, which can accelerate engine wear and damage.
High temperatures can certainly shorten battery life. The electrolyte fluid in the battery can evaporate more quickly at high temperatures, reducing battery efficiency and life. A damaged battery can cause problems when starting the engine: A battery that is not functioning optimally can cause difficulties when starting the engine and can affect the performance of the car's electrical system.
Heat can cause the air pressure in the tires to increase. As the temperature rises, the air inside the tire expands, increasing the tire pressure. Potential tire blowout if not checked regularly: Too high tire pressure can increase the risk of a tire blowout, especially if the tire is worn or has hidden damage. This can be very dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds.
Strong sunlight can damage the interior of a car: Exposure to UV rays can cause interior materials such as seats, dashboards, and trim to fade and crack. Discoloration and damage to interior materials: This not only damages the aesthetics of the car but can also reduce the comfort and resale value of the car. Plastic and leather materials are susceptible to cracking and peeling when exposed to excessive heat.
Read Also: Causes of Car Engines Overheating Quickly and How to Overcome Them
To keep your car in the best condition during the summer, here are some maintenance tips that you can apply:
Make sure the radiator and engine cooling fan are functioning properly. The radiator and fan are important components that keep the engine temperature stable. Always check the radiator for leaks or damage and make sure the fan is spinning properly. Check the coolant level and top up if necessary. Coolant helps maintain engine temperature. Make sure the level is sufficient and add it if necessary. Use the coolant recommended by your car manufacturer for best results.
Change the oil regularly. The engine oil should be changed according to the maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer. New oil will be more effective in lubricating and protecting engine components from heat. Use oil with a viscosity suitable for hot weather conditions. Higher viscosity oils are usually better for hot weather because they are more resistant to thinning due to heat.
Make sure the battery terminals are clean and tight. Dirty or loose battery terminals can disrupt the flow of electricity and cause problems when starting the engine. Check the battery fluid level and add if necessary. Some types of batteries allow you to check and add electrolyte fluid if the level is low. Make sure the battery fluid is always within the appropriate limits to maintain battery performance.
Check tire pressure regularly, including the spare tire. Proper tire pressure is critical to safety and fuel efficiency. Tire pressure tends to increase in hot weather, so be sure to check it often. Make sure the pressure meets the manufacturer's recommendations. Tire pressure that is too low or too high can cause uneven tire wear and increase the risk of accidents.
Use a glass cover or park in a shady area. Direct sunlight can damage the car's interior, such as fading the color of the seats and dashboard. Using a window cover or finding a shady parking spot can help protect the car's interior. Use dashboard and seat protectors. This protector can help keep the car's interior temperature lower and protect the material from damage caused by UV rays.
Make sure the AC system is functioning properly. AC that works optimally is very important for driving comfort during the summer. Check the performance of the AC and make sure there are no leaks. Don't forget to clean the AC filter regularly. A clean filter ensures a smooth flow of cool air and helps maintain air quality in the car. A dirty AC filter can reduce the effectiveness of the AC and make the system work harder, which can cause damage.
Read Also: Quick Solution When Car AC Isn't Cold
Taking good care of your car during the summer will not only maintain your vehicle's performance and safety, but also increase driving comfort. By regularly checking the cooling system, oil, battery, tire pressure, as well as protecting the interior and maintaining AC performance, you can ensure your car remains in optimal condition even in hot weather.
To ensure your car gets the best care, leave it to Prima Autocare and Sales. We provide professional and reliable car maintenance and repair services. With experienced technicians and state-of-the-art equipment, we are ready to keep your car in top condition all year round. Don't let hot weather damage your car, trust us to care for it Prima Autocare and Sales.
