Summer is finally here and we know you can’t wait to hit the road for some summer fun! But before you do that it is best to get your ride in tip-top shape to avoid any breakdowns, overheating, or any other repair that might cost you more than you were hoping. The best way to avoid any of the above is to regularly service your Kia and give it some well-deserved TLC! That’s why this week we have summer car care tips for you to help make sure you’ve checked off all the boxes! So if you’re a car owner that likes to roll up their sleeves and get a little dirty, you’ll like to hear that the below maintenances are all DIY friendly! If you’re too busy to do it yourself or just don’t know much about under the hood, no problem! Just head over to our site and schedule your service appointment now or stop in whenever works best for you! 

Make sure your battery is prepared for high temps

Many people think battery issues only happen in the wintertime but that’s not true. In fact, extreme temperatures have an impact on your battery, no matter if it is the heat or the cold. Heat and vibration are your battery’s worst enemy which will lead to an internal breakdown and eventual failure. So, make sure your battery is securely fastened in your vehicle, properly cleaned, and charged ready to go. 

Keep your tires properly inflated

Your tires should always be filled to proper PSI levels, but driving on under-inflated tires can cause tires to overheat and eventually blow out which is extremely dangerous to yourself, your passengers, and other drivers. Make a note to check your tire’s PSI at least once a month (even the spare) and be sure to do so when they are cold for the best, most accurate reading. 

Keep your engine cool 

An overheated engine is very common in the hot, summer heat. But if you keep your coolant at the proper levels and periodically flush out your engine, the chances of your engine overheating are slim! If you choose to top off your coolant yourself, be sure to let your vehicle cool down and NEVER open your radiator cap when the engine is hot! 

Inspect what’s under the hood

Oftentimes, we forget about all the components that are working hard under the hood to help get us to where we want to be during the summer months! Well, we’re here to remind you to give them a look over. Check on your engine’s hoses, drive belts, and anything susceptible to heat-related deterioration. These things can lead to a breakdown which is what we’re trying to avoid. So, spend a few minutes when your vehicle is cool & make sure there are no cracks, soft spots, or any other signs of poor condition!