Car Cooling Tips for Summer

The scorching sun can be unforgiving to our cars. It not only heats up the car cabin, but also takes a toll on the engine. Here are some simple ways to beat the heat.

Cars take a severe beating during the summer heat with mechanical parts pushed to the edge of their operating window. No matter how sophisticated the cooling system, it may fail at extremely high temperatures, severely damaging the engine, sometimes leading to complete breakdown.

Under-inflated tyres and dirty air filters are also not recommended in summer months with both being capable of reducing your car’s fuel efficiency. Hence, here are some pointers to keep your car in prime position for the next few months

Use electrostatic sheet

Finding parking in shade isn’t an easy task, especially if you live in a major town or city. So if you are forced to park your car in direct sunlight, make sure you cover all the windows and the windshield with an electrostatic sheet. It’s a simple and efficient method to prevent the interiors of the car from being exposed to direct sunlight.

Rolling tint

On similar lines to the electrostatic sheet, a rolling tint may be fitted on top of the windshield. After your car is parked, simply roll the tint downwards. This will prevent direct sunlight from entering the car from front.

Carry extra coolant, water, emergency kit and a spare tyre

Chances of your car breaking down in summers is far higher than in cooler conditions. Therefore, extra coolant, water and emergency supplies always come handy. Tyres are also pushed to the limit in the heat. So make sure you have a spare one in your car’s boot space. Ensure that the spare wheel has correct air pressure as recommended by the automobile manufacturer or as mentioned in the car manual.

Weekly wash

Everyone likes his/her car to look shiny and new. That’s why we wash it at regular intervals. However, little do we know that regular wash prevents the car from damage by sunlight, UV rays, salt, dirt and air pollution. Hence, it is advisable to get your car washed once a week and waxed every six months.

Service your in-car AC

In-car AC needs to be serviced as frequently as its home/office equivalent. With dust and grime protruding the compressor frequently on Indian roads, the need to service the AC becomes all the more important. So before you head out for a long drive or a short trip around the city, make sure the air conditioner is working efficiently.

Check air filter

Air filter is to ensure dust and grime do not enter the engine. Over time, this dust accumulates in the filters and blocks the air passage. Result? Fuel efficiency takes a major dip and the engine gets choked. Therefore, one must regularly get the air filter replaced, especially if you travel frequently on dusty and gravel roads. Always refer to the car guide manual which will tell you exactly when to replace the air filter.

Changing the engine oil

In summers, engines require more lubrication than in winter season. Hence, one may switch to a higher viscosity engine oil to better protect the power unit. Synthetic oils are also recommended although they command a premium over conventional engine oils.

Check hoses and belts

Hoses are the weakest component of the cooling system whose failure may result in overheated engine, loss of power steering and loss of electrical charging system. Hence, it must be visually inspected to find cracks and leaks.