Summer is a perfect season for traveling by car, either for short trips or for long vacation tours. However, extreme heat can cause various problems to your Nissan if it is not properly maintained. Below are some of the most common questions people ask when it comes to summer car maintenance and care. Use the following guidelines to maximize your Nissan’s performance and maintain its dependability during summer.

Why is summer maintenance crucial for my Nissan?

Summer is characterized by hot temperatures and this may exert more pressure on your car. Heat impacts different components of your Nissan, including the engine, wheels, and other parts. Regular servicing of your Nissan means that you will have a car that is safe to drive, has minimal breakdowns, and will not cost you a lot of money to fix.

What Should I Check Under the Hood?

First, perform the ‘pop the hood’ move and check what is going on in the engine compartment. Check that your coolant is at the proper level and is not too old. Coolant assists in preventing your engine from overheating. If it is low or dirty, it needs to be refilled or, preferably, emptied and refilled with a fresh one.

Look at the condition and level of the engine oil that is in the Nissan. If the oil is dirty or if it has been longer than the recommended time for an oil change, then you should change the oil. New oil prevents the overheating of the engine as well as prevents friction and the subsequent rough performance of the car.

Check the belts and hoses to see if they are worn out or have any cracks on them. The heat from the engine combined with the summer heat can cause them to harden quickly and crack and in turn cause some complications to the engines. High temperatures are also known to cause faster discharge of battery power. Inspect the battery for signs of corrosion on both terminals and also make sure that the battery is well secured. If your battery is old, it is advisable to take it for a test and possibly get it replaced.

How do I Get My Tires Ready for Summer?

Tires play an important role in performance and safety during summer. Make sure you monitor the pressure of your tires as often as you can because, during summer, the extreme heat may increase the pressure inside a tire, making your tires overinflated. When your Nissan tires are inflated to the right pressure they consume less fuel and there is a lesser chance of a blowout occurring.

You should also look at the tread of your tires. Tires that are worn out should be replaced as soon as possible because they are very dangerous when used on hot or slippery roads. If the tread is low, you may need to consider getting your tires replaced. One last thing that should not be overlooked is the spare tire. Ensure you have it in good condition and well-inflated just in case you need it.

How Can I Make My Nissan Interior Less Hot?

Maintaining low temperatures inside your car during summer is very important for comfort. Switch on your air conditioner and ensure the air coming out of it is cold. If it is not as cool as it is supposed to be, then you need to recharge the refrigerant or get the system examined for any leakage. The cabin air filter should be replaced if it is dirty. This is because a clean filter enhances the circulation of air as well as the efficiency of your air conditioning system. Tint your windshield with sun shades so as to reduce heat build-up when you park your car. This also shields your dashboard and seats from the scorching sun and potential damage.

How Can I Protect My Car’s Exterior?

The summer sun can really take a toll on the exterior of your Nissan. Wash your car often to reduce the accumulation of dirt and other elements. Put a coat of wax to shield the paint from the sun’s ultraviolet radiation. If possible park your Nissan in a carport or use a car cover to reduce direct exposure to the sun.

Let Our Experts Help You

At Masters European & Japanese Auto Repair we are your preferred shop for your Japanese car needs in Mill Valley, CA. Since our establishment in 1978, we have expanded our service to drivers in Corte Madera, Larkspur, Sausalito, and Tiburon, CA. If you wish to have your Nissan ready for any summer travel, then we are here to assist you. Just give us a call at (415) 383-2382 and we will be more than happy to assist you.