The Most Common Summer Car Problems in Everett, WA

The summer season is almost here! With its hot sun rays and warm breezes, summer weather is a sign that it’s time for road trips and outdoor fun. But just how ready is your vehicle to take on the heat? Will it be able to take you down every road marked on your map? Before you pack up your vehicle with your favorite people, tunes and foods, seriously consider calling your mechanic and scheduling a pre-season auto check.

Here are some of the most common types of reported summer car problems in Everett, WA:

• Air conditioner malfunction: There is no summertime problem worse than not having a working air conditioner in your car. A lack of AC makes driving on long road trips unbearable and running local errands unpleasant. Before the summer heat sets in, test your AC to ensure the blower motor works and that its fuses aren’t faulty. Your mechanic can figure out whether the cooling issue is a leak or if you just need a recharge.
• Tire trouble: Car tires tend to swell when they make contact with hot asphalt surfaces. Check that your tires are properly inflated, free of damage and still have an adequate amount of tread. Measure the pressure in each tire frequently throughout the summer months, and consider hiring an auto technician to perform a pre-trip tire inspection.
• Brake system problems: Your vehicle’s braking system can act differently from season to season. Of all the tell-tale signs of worn-out brakes, the most common include whining, squealing and high-pitched wheezing when the brakes are applied. Also take note of how the brake pedal feels. Don’t risk your safety—take your car in for an inspection as soon as possible.
• Power steering issues: The power steering in your vehicle makes turning a breeze. Without this function, turning the steering wheel becomes like a game of tug of war. This problem can affect your ability to drive safely, so take it to the shop, especially if you have trouble turning the wheel, hear squealing or see fluid puddles underneath your vehicle.
• Dead battery: Car battery health is weakened by extreme temperatures. During the hot summer months, heat can accelerate corrosion on battery terminals and around and inside the housing unit, but a leaking battery can cause damage to other components under the hood. A mechanic can test your battery the next time you bring your car in for service.
• Leaks: Every time you back out of the driveway or a parking spot, take a moment to inspect the area beneath where your vehicle sat. Be wary if you see puddles. Damp spots that don’t evaporate could be an oil leak, fluid from the brake system or fluid from the transmission.

Auto Truck Service Inc. is here to diagnose and fix everyone’s summer car problems in Everett, WA. We are an experienced, full-service, family owned and operated automotive shop with more than 50 years under our belt. Come see us or call ahead to schedule an appointment!

Categorised in: Car Repairs