Recently, Markdown Mom had the opportunity, if you can put a positive spin on a near disaster, of being acquainted with the devastating aspect of heat and your car. A vehicle overheating is not a pleasant experience. When the gauge indicator moves into the red zone, and the “low coolant” sign starts flicking, panic is the only word that comes into mind. Oftentimes, car problems–any car problems come without any warning. Here are some tips to avoid the pitfalls of a long hot summer on your car:

1. If the gauge indicator moves into the red zone, immediately turn-off the engine to prevent engine failure. If you are in the middle of traffic, turn on your flashers to indicate that your car is in trouble. Do not wait to try to find an opportunity to pullover. Better to receive a few horn blasts or yelling, than to ruin your engine! Make sure your car completely down before even touching the radiator cap and adding coolant/water.

2. Prevention is the word; however be careful of where you have any work done. There are many fast service places offering a radiator flush, or exchange. However, a radiator flush can result in disabling your thermostat, especially if the coolant is very dirty. Make sure that the service is licensed to replace the thermostat.

3. Go to summer weight oil as specified by the manufacturer of your vehicle. Viscosity of the oil will affect the running of the motor and you do not want to keep the thicker winter weight in your car unless the manufacturer states a particular weight can be used for both winter and summer.

4. Make sure that the radiator fan is working. The fan can work intermittently giving you probems that appear and disappear. Have an electronic diagnostic run if you notice that your car periodically starts to get hotter. Several things with the fan can be causing the trouble, a short, a faullty fuse or heat sensor, and ultimately the fan motor.

5. Check that your tires have the proper air weight. Under-inflated tires can cause the engine to work harder and will also use more gas. Additionally, this is true of any additional weight, so don’t use your vehicle as a storage area.

*photo courtesy of 2carpros.com‰™

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