Question:
The summer months are the busiest time for our road service fleet. Everything breaks when the mercury climbs, and nobody likes sitting on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck when it’s hot outside. By the time you read this, we could be closing in on 100 degrees! With summer just around the corner, what should you have done to your car to prepare it for the Arizona summer?

Answer:
Maintenance for Arizona’s severe heat is a little different than maintenance for the rest of the country. For example, all the rubber parts on your car wear out more quickly here in the desert. Things like wiper blades, motor mounts, belts, hoses and tires just don’t last as long due to the heat and the extreme dry conditions. So you will want to schedule your car in for a pre-summer inspection as soon as possible. Have all those rubber parts inspected for cracks and wear and have the coolant condition tested - it’s not just antifreeze, it’s also anti-boil protection. Of course the number one thing to check out is the air conditioner. Have the A/C system tested to make sure there are no leaks and that the vent temperature is nice and cold. Also, make sure that your mechanic tests the battery. Car batteries have improved in recent years, but they still don’t last nearly as long here as they do elsewhere. In addition, dust takes a toll on air and cabin filters. Both should be replaced annually for maximum benefit. Finally, make sure that you have bottled water in the car and keep your cell phone charged, just in case.

As I’ve said here before, the benefits that we humans come to Arizona to enjoy, like warmth and sunny days, can be hard on our cars and trucks. However, if we acknowledge this trade-off and are prepared to perform the added maintenance, we can reduce the likelihood of breakdowns this summer.