Cars feeling the heat this summer

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    By Rebekah Kunz

    Summer brings vacations, pool parties and barbecues, but with the summer heat, not everything is fun and games. Summer heat can be harmful to cars if they aren”t maintained and cared for properly.

    According to the American Automobile Association, Utah”s extremely hot temperatures can damage important vehicle components and can cause major problems for both the short-term and the longevity of the car. Of particular importance are the car”s fluids.

    “Check and refill your oil when you fill up gas,” said Glen Trammel, the assistant manager for the Orem Autozone.

    Trammel also said checking the battery, the radiator and tire pressure are important in the summer.

    “Things that are relatively cheap can prolong the life of your vehicle,” said Rolayne Fairclough, the AAA Utah spokeswoman.

    Summer is also a time for road trips. Some things Fairclough said drivers can do before going on a trip to maintain the car include taking it to a mechanic to do a general check and doing additional maintenance that may be needed for cars with higher mileage. For long trips, the AAA also recommends an emergency kit be kept in the car, especially if traveling to an isolated area.

    Checking the tread on the tires as well as looking for any nails or things that could cause the tire to blow out is important before long trips, said Tom Crofts, a BYU graduate and crew chief on a local NASCAR team.

    Crofts also said checking alignment frequently as well as before trips can help prevent accidents.

    The summer heat can also be a new experience for parents with newborns or young children. According to AAA, a parked car can reach temperatures as high as 190 degrees. Parents need to make sure to air out the car before putting children in, use sunshades and cover knobs in the car with a blanket so children don”t burn themselves.

    -AAA released a few tips to keep cars healthy, including:

    * Fluids – All fluids should be clean and full. The coolant needs to be checked and may need to be flushed and replaced (with the proper 50/50 mix of coolant and water).

    * Make sure the oil and lubricants are also clean and full. Check your owner”s manual for oil and lubricant specifications.

    * Belts and Hoses – With the engine off check that they aren”t cracked or damaged.

    * Batteries- Batteries are weakened by temperature changes. Have it checked before summer to see that it can last the hot months.

    * Wires – Have a mechanic check wire coverings for excessive wear. Wear can cause a short and possibly a fire.

    * Fuses – Make sure that replacements are the exact same amp value. A higher amp can cause the car to overheat.

    * Tires – Examine tires for uneven tread, or excessive wear. Check the tire pressure of all the tires, including the spare, as temperature changes can cause fluctuations in pressure.

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