Summer is here and the weather is right for going to the beach and relaxing. It’s great to kick back and enjoy the season, but don’t forget that your car still needs some attention. Many people forget that they need to maintain their vehicles during the summer months, and this can pose unexpected problems. At JD’s Auto Repair, we help all of our customers get their cars ready for summer and we’ve got 10 quick tips to help you get started.

1. Coolant

Keeping your car efficiently cooled during the summer is important to guarantee a satisfactory driving experience. You should make it a habit to check the coolant level of your car during the warmer summer months. In addition, you might want to check the hoses and the coolant reservoir, as well.

2. Wipers

Using worn wipers creates streaks on your windshield. It can also decrease your visibility when driving.  Replacing your windshield wipers is a quick and inexpensive process.

3. Belts

Checking your engine belts during the summer is important. You can check the serpentine belt which runs between the alternator and the fan. If this piece is loose or deteriorating, then it is probably a good idea to replace it.

4. Fluids

You’ll want to go a good job checking the brake, oil and power steering fluid in your car. These liquids are constantly being used inside a car, so it’s important to make sure that they are at the appropriate levels.

5. Air conditioning

Most of us love to ride in air-conditioned cars when summer arrives. If your system needs a repair, now is the time to do it. A car that is low on refrigerant likely has a leak somewhere. Have a qualified mechanic fix this and you’ll enjoy the cool air in no time.

6. Tires

It’s a good idea to have your tires checked several times a year. It’s important to have the correct tire pressure. Check for wear or cracks in your tires and think about carrying a spare tire if you don’t already.

7. Air filter

Summer is a great time to think about having your air filter replaced. If you don’t have it replaced, you should at least give it a good cleaning. If you have questions, be sure to consult with a qualified technician.

8. Interior and exterior

Keep your windshield cleaned so that you don’t experience glare on bright, sunny days. A good wash will keep your car’s exterior protected and will also keep its paintwork looking great.

9. Dashboard

Many people like to utilize covers on their dashboards for hot, sunny days. Some covers even have solar panels which will keep your car battery charged. You can even use shades on your rear windows, as well.

10. Paperwork

It’s a good idea to make sure that your driver’s license is up to date. You might also want to look into roadside assistance plan, such as AAA that can provide help during unexpected situations.