With temperatures approaching extreme highs and no relief in sight, every driver has to consider the damaging effect that the heat can have on a poorly serviced vehicle. Leo Kaytes specialize in new Ford Edge Warwick New York, new Ford F-150, new Ford Focus Warwick cars. The Ford Service team at the Warwick, New York dealer have assembled this this checklist that can save any driver time, expense, and headaches this summer.

An easy first step is checking the tire pressure. Seasonal temperature changes affect tire pressures. Improper tire inflation affects ride smoothness and gas mileage; remember that an over-inflated tire is just as bad as an under-inflated tire. It’s easy to forget to inflate the spare tire and check that the roadside tools (jack, lug-wrench, and wheel lock if necessary) are working properly.

Next make sure all of the fluids are topped off including radiator fluid, engine oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid and wiper fluid. Pay close attention to the HOT and COLD level indicators and only fill to the correct line. Adding too much oil or fluids can damage sensitive engine components.

Check that the battery is fully charged and the terminals are corrosion-free. The heat can kill a car battery quickly and summertime humidity will lead to rust formation on the battery terminals.

An oft-overlooked piece of safe summer driving is the condition of the windshield wipers. They should be free of cracks and the steel hooks should be clear of the windsheild surface. A new set of wiper blades costs around $20 and can really take the fear out of summer driving.

Once that is all complete check the serpentine belts for fissures and tightness. A constant squeaking noise is the first warning sign of imminent belt failure. This belt typically runs the A/C compressor, alternator, and power steering so keeping a close watch on it can be the difference between a good running car and catastophe.

If you don’t want to do your own pre trip inspection bring your car to Russell&Smith Honda’s Service Department. Trust the experts. With their well-equipped shops, OEM parts and the factory certified technicians, Russell&Smith Honda can insure a wonderful and trouble-free summer vacation. There are many potential headaches involved with summer driving, but with proper maintainance car trouble doesn’t have to be one of them.