Summer Heat and Driving
When temperatures soar, special precautions are needed to help ensure safe driving.

Tips for staying cool:

• Batteries:
  • Heat can be as tough on vehicle batteries as the coldest winter weather.
  • Batteries more than 2 years old should be tested to ensure they have the starting power to handle the stress of extreme temperatures.

• Motor oil:
  • It plays an important role in keeping the engine cool.
  • Check oil level and condition.
  • If driving under extreme conditions (hills, towing a heavy trailer) switch to a motor oil with higher viscosity. Check owner's manual for specific oil recommendations.

• Check brake fluid level & condition:
  • It's vital to maintain proper fluid levels.
  • The fluid should be free of contaminants to ensure reliable hot-weather braking.

• Antifreeze:
  • Inspect antifreeze/coolant level and condition.
  • Make certain the proper 50/50 mixture of water & coolant is present.

• If your vehicle overheats:
  • Never remove the radiator cap until the engine has cooled.
  • Coolant in the radiator is under pressure and can flash into steam, causing severe burns.

• Belts & hoses:
  • They are stressed by extreme heat.
  • Inspect them regularly for cracks or signs of wear.

• Keep cool:
  • When parked, use a sun shield to cover the windshield to minimize heat build-up.
  • Check the air conditioning system for possible leaks and to ensure sufficient cooling.
  • To avoid a burn on bare skin, protect metal seatbelt buckles with a cloth or by parking in the shade.
  • Ensure that child car seat buckles are shaded from the sun to prevent burns.