As the summer months arrive, you need to remember to care for your vehicle. Just like anything, automobiles need proper maintenance, and a changing of the seasons is a great time to make sure you are up to date on all of the basic maintenance issues. Every car needs to be cared for properly so it can reach its maximum potential and enjoy a long lifespan. This is especially true if you have a used car or one that was purchased at an auction. A public auto auction in Portland is a great place to get a vehicle, but you need to keep up with maintenance just like with any car. Use these tips to ensure your vehicle stays in good shape over the summer.
Check the Engine
Basic engine maintenance is a must during the summer months. You will want to make sure you are up to date on any oil changes, as well as checking your oil filter. Once those are ready to go, you want to make sure your engine belts and hoses are in good shape as well. If those wear out while you are driving, you could be in trouble. Have a trusted mechanic check the status of your belts and hoses if you are unsure about what to look for.
Replace Windshield Wipers
While it may seem a little strange to worry about your windshield wipers during the summer months when rain is not as common, it is actually the best season to change them. Windshield wipers take a beating during the winter, and getting new ones as the rain dies is a great way to ensure you always have wipers that work properly. Summer is also notorious for sudden thunderstorms that can send pounding rain on top of you at any time. If your wipers are leaving streaks and look broken, replace them to ensure top performance.
Check Brakes
Your brakes are essential to a good driving experience, as they assure you can stop when you need to. For this reason, it is always a good idea to get your brakes checked as the summer months roll around. Winter can be harsh on your brakes, so getting them checked by a trustworthy mechanic is the best way to keep them in good shape. When it comes to brakes, catching problems early means you won’t have to spend as much on repairs, so do not wait too long or else you will have to spend a lot more money.