AN ARIZONA SUMMER…
It's a dry heat!
Whether you’re an Arizona Native or just visiting the Grand Canyon State, it’s no secret that Arizona summers are hot. But have you ever heard the saying, “it’s a dry heat?” As temperatures soar this season there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to maintaining your vehicle.
In Arizona we experience a low percentage of humidity. As a result, we enjoy a rust-free vehicle exterior. Rust often comes with moist, salty-air climates. BUT ~ because our climate is dry we must pay close attention to our car’s performance inside & out while preparing for the warm days of summer. Remember, it’s a dry heat ~ stuff tends to
dry out. What kind of stuff?
- Belts & Hoses ~ Have a summer “check-up” at Sun Devil Auto ~ we’ll examine all your belts & hoses. The industry recommends replacing the hoses every 3 to 4 years to ensure they’re in good shape with no blistering, cracking or cuts to the rubber. Since hot summer temperatures accelerate the rate at which belts and hoses break down, now is the perfect time to survey their condition and make any necessary replacements.
- Tires ~ Check the air pressure, wear & tread on all four tires, and the spare. When you come in for an oil change, we’ll rotate your tires for free…our techs can check the integrity of your tires then, or anytime you may be in doubt.
- Cooling System ~ Have the cooling system flushed and refilled. It can help you prevent the possibility of your engine overheating.
- Fluid Levels ~ Summer, it’s a great time to check your vehicle’s fluid levels. Check out the oil, brakes, auto transmission, power steering, windshield washer and coolant fluids.
- Wiper Blades ~ Arizona summer monsoons! Need we say more? It’s no fun getting caught in the middle of the monsoon with no wiper blades! Remember, things tend to dry out in Arizona ~ these rubber blades are susceptible to the summer heat. If they aren’t in good condition, have them replaced.
- Air Conditioning ~ Check AC performance, especially before that anticipated vacation/road-trip. The principles of evaporation and condensation are utilized in your car's A/C system by a series of components that are connected by tubing and hoses. There are six basic components: the compressor, condenser, receiver-drier, thermostatic expansion valve, the evaporator and the refrigerant. If your AC isn’t blowing cold, there are three things to check:
- Duct temperature
- Visually assess AC hoses and other components for leakages
- Deodorize system
