BEATING THE SUMMER BLUES
AS THE MERCURY RISES, FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO KEEP YOUR CAR IN GREAT SHAPE
WWhen it comes to climate, we get the most varied kinds in our country. The smouldering summer is now on its way, with the pouring monsoons thrown into the mix later on. Such immense changes in temperature and weather conditions every few months have an adverse effect on everything that is exposed to the elements. Naturally, cars too are extremely vulnerable to the ravages of climatic variations, since they are often parked in the open. To minimise the effects of weather on your car, we have a few pointers that will not only keep your vehicle in good health this summer, but also save you some money that you might otherwise spend in order to keep it running.
COOLING SYSTEM
Cars these days are made to be virtually maintenance-free and the days of looking at the radiator and coolant levels are passe, but just like you need the air-conditioning to keep cool, your car needs to run at optimum temperatures to perform well. Running the car in high temperatures at high engine speeds can do damage to the powerplant if the cooling system is not in the pink of health. Get the radiator flushed to rid it of any residue, rust and metal particles that might have built up. Checking coolant level is not too difficult either as the coolant reservoir is marked with max and min level indicators. The important thing to keep in mind is the viscosity of the fluid. If it’s too thin, then the coolant needs to be topped up.
BATTERY
High ambient temperatures are one of the main causes of battery trouble. Since the air-conditioner is in constant use during the summers and the blower fan is working overtime, it takes a toll on the battery. Get the terminals and cables inspected for corrosion and get them cleaned. Sulphuric acid, which usually builds up with use, corrodes the terminals and plays havoc with the connection. This can also lead to a dead battery. Batteries are also more prone to losing electrolyte as a result of evaporation during the summer.
ENGINE OIL
Oil keeps the engine lubricated and prevents wear and tear of moving parts like the piston and cylinder. If used over a prolonged period, the engine oil loses viscosity and fine metal particles build up as metal parts wear down. This prevents the
oil from providing the desired lubrication and can even lead to damage of the engine. In a worst case scenario, this can even lead to engine seizure. Check the engine oil level using the dip stick and make sure oil level is maintained up to the recommended level by the vehicle’s manufacturer.
PAINT
Continuous exposure to sunlight can lead to slow fading of the paint work. Washing the car on a regular basis keeps dirt and corrosive elements at bay and reduces their effect on the car. Getting the car pressure washed is also a good idea as it forces dirt and grime out. Finally waxing, polishing and also a new age ceramic coating helps reduce paint fade. As far as possible, park the car in a shaded area.
TYRES
First check the tread depth and replace a worn tyre if the tread is found to be too worn. Avoid driving with under or overinflated tyres. Temperatures also vary highly between day and night and that again has an impact on the tyre, with the rubber expanding and contracting, causing what is called ‘dry rot’. This could lead to tyre walls cracking.
AIR FILTER
Dry weather and fast winds result in dust storms, especially in the northern part of the country. This has an impact on the way the engine breathes. The air filter’s job is to keep the dust and grime out of the air that enters the engine and with dust storms a common thing, a choked air passage leads to a drop in fuel economy. The air filter also needs fairly regular maintenance if you drive on dirty and gravelly roads. The air filter is not an expensive replacement. If required, it must be changed immediately.
CARING FOR YOURSELF
It is also important to take care of yourself on the road. Start by ventilating the car before getting into it and switching on the AC. Most modern cars come with connected features and it is advisable to use them to switch on the AC and cool down the car. Needless to say, keep enough water in the car to hydrate yourself. Something as simple as sunshades work wonders in reducing fatigue. When you are driving for long periods of time in the scorching sun, your body loses a lot of essential salts and electrolytes through sweat. Be prepared for emergencies and keep packets of electrolytes in your first aid kit.