10 ways to prepare your car for the summer heat

The sudden oven-like airburst that came from opening the automobile door. The burning upholstery's sting. The scorching heat of the seatbelt clasp. Welcome to the uncomfortable and occasionally painful reality of returning to a car that has been scorching under Philippine summer.

But how can you make your car a less hostile environment in the summer if you can't get that elusive shaded parking spot? We've got ten suggestions to get your automobile ready for warmer weather and the summer's sweltering days.

Care for tires

Change your tires: Summer or all-season tires are more stiff and handle better on hot pavement.

Rotate your tires: Rotating your tires involves alternating the front and rear tires, and it's equally crucial. This will increase your car's performance and safety in the warmer weather, as well as decrease its gas mileage.

Monitor tire pressure: Did you know that as temperatures rise, tire pressure can rise as well? In fact, for every 6 degrees of temperature increase, tire pressure might rise by 1 or 2 PSI. Thus, what worked for your driving during a rainstorm won't work in the summer.

Overinflated tires will perform poorly and may even burst, while underinflated tires will put unnecessary pressure on the sidewalls. After visually inspecting your tires for cracks and bulges, use the gauge to confirm that the pressure is set in accordance with the owner's manual for your vehicle.

Care for the AC

The air conditioner in your car is hopefully modern enough, but chances are you never turn it off. Make sure the somewhat mistreated air conditioner is working correctly and circulating cool air into the cabin at this point. If not, you might need to top off your refrigerant. Alternative treatments include a complete fluid evacuation and recharge by a mechanic, but they are typically last resorts.

Get fresh filters

You must make sure the airflow to your engine and to the cabin is flawless because you'll be rolling down the windows and cranking the AC. For your health and the health of the vehicle, examine the cabin air filter for any indications of discoloration or moisture. Inspect your engine's air filter as well; a healthy filter will benefit your car and increase fuel efficiency.

Top up the fluids

You probably check your oil frequently, but how frequently do you check the other essential fluids your engine depends on? It's simple to overlook.

To avoid overheating, you should pay close attention to your coolant levels as the summer approaches. Checking your transmission and brake fluid makes sense while you're getting your hands filthy. For information on where to find each fluid and related dipstick, consult your vehicle's handbook.

Swap the battery

A dead battery is a misery no matter the season, whether you're stranded in a sweltering parking lot or on a roadside drenched in rain. The stress of air conditioning, cooling fans, and your sound system contending with ambient noise during the summer can be hard on a charging system. Examine your battery for any symptoms of deterioration. If it's outdated, look about getting a replacement as batteries last for four years on average.

Brake check

Your car's brakes suffer damage from driving on the wet, so you must be careful to ensure they are prepared for the summer. There are several mechanics and car businesses that offer brake inspections. They will check the brake rotors and pads and inform you if they need to be replaced. This will enhance the performance of your vehicle and the safety of everyone around you.

Protect the paint

Summer heat is not a massive fan of your car's paint job. The exterior paint may fade, dry out, or even develop cracks after being exposed to the sun for an extended period of time. Try to park in a shaded area if you don't have access to a garage, but keep in mind that trees can present their own hazards, such as bird droppings or sap. For the car's optimum sun protection, it's also wise to take into account a UV protectant wax coating.

Replace the wipers

In the rainy season, you undoubtedly used your wiper blades frequently. Your wipers may not have had much left in the tank from the frequent removal of grime and sand and salt. In the summer rain, you don't want your wipers to leave streaks. Wipers are simple to replace and will greatly enhance visibility.

Prepare an emergency kit

Nothing compares to taking the highway in the summer to go camping or spend some quiet time in a cottage. You are mentally prepared for the journey, but is your car in the same state? Keeping a preparation package in the car will protect you and your family from the unforeseeable.

In case of a distant breakdown, we're talking about flashlights, blankets, water, and a spare tire kit. A good time to consider roadside assistance coverage is now. For those solo drives where you might need mechanical assistance, a few dollars a month could buy you a lot of peace of mind.

Adapt your driving style

Driving in the summer and in the rainy season might be very different. When the roads are slick, your main concern is avoiding flooding and the possibility of your car losing control.

Throughout the summer, roadwork and construction projects tend to produce additional congestion, which makes traffic worse. It means spending extra time in the hot automobile, which is why it's crucial that your air conditioner is in working order. Moreover, summertime street activity includes an increase in walkers and bikers. Make careful to use greater caution and keep an eye out for non-motorized activity. Modern drivers need to be especially attentive to their surroundings this summer as electric bikes, e-scooters, and e-boards all take to the roadways.

Photos from Dylan Afuang and Roy Robles