If you live in Southern Ontario, you’re no stranger to unpredictable weather. As summers grow hotter, your car could be at greater risk than you think. Extreme heat doesn’t just make your daily drive uncomfortable. It can cause real damage to your vehicle if you’re not prepared.
From your battery to your tires, the summer sun can take a toll on your car’s performance and safety. In this blog post, we’ll explore how high temperatures affect your vehicle, what warning signs to watch for, and how a few simple maintenance steps can help you avoid costly repairs.
1. Heat and Your Car Battery
Most people associate battery problems with winter, but extreme heat is just as damaging. High temperatures speed up chemical reactions inside your battery, which can lead to overcharging and shortened battery life. Heat also causes the battery fluid to evaporate faster, damaging the internal structure.
What you can do:
- Have your battery tested regularly, especially during the summer.
- Make sure the battery terminals are clean and corrosion-free.
- Park in shaded or covered areas to minimize heat exposure.
2. Tire Blowouts: A Summer Hazard
Hot pavement combined with underinflated tires is a recipe for blowouts. When the air inside your tires heats up, it expands. If your tires are already worn or underinflated, this extra pressure increases the risk of failure while driving.
What you can do:
- Check your tire pressure at least once a month, and always before a long trip.
- Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Inspect your tires for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear.
3. Engine Overheating: A Common Summer Breakdown
Your engine runs hot even in the best conditions. Add in a 30+ degree heat wave and your cooling system works overtime. If there’s a coolant leak or your radiator is clogged, the engine can overheat quickly, leading to major damage.
What you can do:
- Check your coolant levels regularly and top up with the proper antifreeze mixture.
- Watch for signs of overheating like steam under the hood or your temperature gauge spiking.
- Make sure your radiator and cooling fan are in good working condition.
If your car is overheating, don’t ignore it. Bring it in for a cooling system check right away.
4. Air Conditioning: Don’t Sweat It
A failing air conditioning system not only makes driving uncomfortable, it could signal a deeper issue. Low refrigerant, leaks, or a broken compressor can all reduce A/C performance. Over time, ignoring the problem can damage other components and lead to more expensive repairs.
What you can do:
- Test your A/C at the start of summer. If it’s blowing warm or inconsistent air, get it checked.
- Don’t rely solely on DIY recharging kits. They can cause more harm than good if used incorrectly.
- Have your A/C serviced by a qualified technician to ensure everything’s working efficiently.
Not feeling that chill? Book an A/C inspection and get back to driving in comfort.
5. Fluids Break Down Faster in Heat
Engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid all help your vehicle run smoothly. But in hot weather, these fluids can thin out and degrade more quickly, reducing their effectiveness.
What you can do:
- Follow your manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for fluid changes.
- Check fluid levels monthly and top up when needed.
- Look out for burnt smells, discolouration, or leaks under your car.
Regular oil changes are one of the best ways to protect your engine from summer heat.
6. Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid
Summer storms can roll in fast, and visibility is key to safe driving. Heat and sun exposure can dry out your wiper blades, causing them to crack and leave streaks behind. Likewise, running out of washer fluid when your windshield is dirty from dust or pollen can be dangerous.
What you can do:
- Replace your wiper blades every 6 to 12 months.
- Keep your washer fluid reservoir full with a summer blend that handles bugs and road grime.
- Clean your windshield regularly for better visibility.
7. Interior Damage: Sunlight Takes a Toll
Your dashboard, seats, and steering wheel can get dangerously hot in direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure can cause cracking, fading, and warping of interior materials. Leather seats especially can dry out and lose their colour and texture.
What you can do:
- Use a windshield sunshade to block UV rays.
- Park in the shade or use a car cover when possible.
- Apply UV protectant to your dashboard and interior surfaces.
8. Belts and Hoses: More Prone to Cracking
Your vehicle’s belts and hoses are made of rubber-based materials that degrade faster in heat. A cracked hose or snapped belt can leave you stuck on the side of the road with an expensive tow and repair bill.
What you can do:
- Have your belts and hoses inspected every time you service your vehicle.
- Listen for squealing noises or check for visible cracks.
- Replace aging components before they fail.
Our technicians at Dial A Tire Waterloo check these components as part of every routine inspection.
Driving Tips for Hot Weather
Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable, it creates real driving hazards. Here are a few extra tips to protect your vehicle and yourself during hot days:
- Avoid driving during the hottest parts of the day, usually between 12 PM and 4 PM.
- Keep a sunshade and a few bottles of water in your car in case you get stuck.
- Monitor your dashboard for any warning lights or unusual sounds.
And don’t forget: if something feels off, trust your instincts. Getting your vehicle checked early can save you from major headaches later.
When to See a Mechanic
If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to bring your car in for a professional look:
- Engine temperature gauge running hot
- Air conditioning blowing warm air
- Squealing or grinding noises from under the hood
- Fluid leaks under your car
- Poor fuel economy
- Warning lights on your dashboard
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to serious and expensive issues. Regular maintenance, especially during the summer, is one of the best ways to extend the life of your car and keep your family safe on the road.
Stay Cool with Dial A Tire in Waterloo
At Dial A Tire, we understand how extreme heat affects vehicles in Southern Ontario. That’s why we offer complete summer auto maintenance, from A/C repair to battery checks and everything in between. Our expert technicians provide fast, honest, and reliable service that puts your safety first.
Whether you’re prepping for a road trip or just trying to survive the daily commute in a heat wave, we’re here to help you drive with confidence.
Book your summer checkup today at dialatire.ca
235 Weber St N, Waterloo, ON
519-578-8473
