The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of the hot months of summer ahead will take a toll on your vehicle. With the added effects of winter just past, you could be headed for a breakdown before summer is over. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure with regular auto repair services.
Some of the following auto repair tips you may be able to take care of yourself. Others will require a trained technician at a reliable auto repair shop:
- Air Conditioning – A Have your A/C system inspected by a qualified auto repair technician. A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather.
- Cooling System – Overheating is the most common cause of summer breakdowns. The cooling system should be flushed and refilled about every 24 months, but don't forget to have it inspected periodically.
- Oil -- Change your oil and filter as specified in your manual. If you make frequent stop-and-go trips, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer, an oil change service should be performed about every 3,000 miles.
- Engine Service -- Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended, but more often in dusty conditions. Engine repair problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) can be corrected at your trusted auto repair shop.
- Windshield Wipers -- A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and have lots of windshield washer fluid on hand.
- Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs and replace any burned out bulbs. Periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses.
- Tires -- Check tire pressure at least once a month. Don't forget to check the spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine the tread for uneven wearing and cupping, and the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side. Your tires should be rotated about every 5,000 miles.
- Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Take care of brake problems right away.
- Battery -- Routine professional care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
- Emergencies -- Carry basic car tools, including a first aid kit, blanket, snacks, water, flares and flashlight.
For quality auto repair, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
The heat, dust, and stop-and-go traffic of the hot months of summer ahead will take a toll on your vehicle. With the added effects of winter just past, you could be headed for a breakdown before summer is over. You can lessen the odds of mechanical failure with regular auto repair services.
Some of the following auto repair tips you may be able to take care of yourself. Others will require a trained technician at a reliable auto repair shop:
- Air Conditioning – A Have your A/C system inspected by a qualified auto repair technician. A marginally operating system will fail in hot weather.
- Cooling System – Overheating is the most common cause of summer breakdowns. The cooling system should be flushed and refilled about every 24 months, but don't forget to have it inspected periodically.
- Oil -- Change your oil and filter as specified in your manual. If you make frequent stop-and-go trips, extended trips with lots of luggage, or tow a trailer, an oil change service should be performed about every 3,000 miles.
- Engine Service -- Replace other filters (air, fuel, PCV, etc.) as recommended, but more often in dusty conditions. Engine repair problems (hard starts, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc.) can be corrected at your trusted auto repair shop.
- Windshield Wipers -- A dirty windshield causes eye fatigue and can pose a safety hazard. Replace worn blades and have lots of windshield washer fluid on hand.
- Lights -- Inspect all lights and bulbs and replace any burned out bulbs. Periodically clean dirt and insects from all lenses.
- Tires -- Check tire pressure at least once a month. Don't forget to check the spare, and be sure the jack is in good condition. Examine the tread for uneven wearing and cupping, and the sidewalls for cuts and nicks. An alignment is warranted if there's uneven tread wear or if your vehicle pulls to one side. Your tires should be rotated about every 5,000 miles.
- Brakes -- Brakes should be inspected as recommended in your manual, or sooner if you notice pulsations, grabbing, noises, or longer stopping distance. Take care of brake problems right away.
- Battery -- Routine professional care: Scrape away corrosion from posts and cable connections; clean all surfaces; re-tighten all connections. If battery caps are removable, check the fluid level monthly.
- Emergencies -- Carry basic car tools, including a first aid kit, blanket, snacks, water, flares and flashlight.
For quality auto repair, contact our ASE-certified technicians today at Express Auto Service & Repair by calling 507-625-8005, or go on-line at www.expresscareautomn.com for more information. Our auto repair shop serves vehicle owners in Mankato, MN, and the neighboring communities of North Mankato, MN, New Ulm, MN, and St. Peter, MN.
