Summer Maintenance Tips
Summer Maintenance Tips in Mobile, AL
When the weather is warm and summer is in full swing, it’s the perfect time to jump in the car and take family and friends on an unforgettable road trip. There’s nothing more disappointing, however, than being ready to hit the road and having your vehicle stall. Don’t let unexpected car trouble ruin your summer vacation; follow our summer maintenance tips instead. Read on to learn how to inspect your vehicle and identify potential problems that need to be addressed, either at home or by the expert technicians here at Lexus of Mobile.
Air Conditioning
A/C is a must-have during the scorching days of summer. As you prepare for your road trip, take time to test your vehicle’s air conditioning. Even if it takes a moment to cool down, you should eventually feel cold air blowing from the vents. If not, you may have a leak that is causing a low refrigerant level. A hot car can be unsafe, so take action as soon as possible if you discover air conditioning issues. You can find and repair the leak yourself (using leak sealant) or bring your vehicle to our team instead.
Tire Condition
Did you know that tires lose and gain pressure due to fluctuating outside temperatures? That’s why it’s crucial to check your tire pressure regularly. Refer to your owner’s manual to find the right PSI for your tires and add air if needed. While you’re inspecting, it’s always a good idea to ensure there are no nails or other debris stuck in your tires. You can also ensure that your tread is deep enough to drive on safely using the penny test. Take a penny and insert it in your tire’s tread, upside down and with Lincoln facing you. If you can’t see the top of Lincoln’s head, your tread is fine. If you can see the top of Lincoln’s head and hair, your tread is dangerously low. Bring your vehicle in for replacement tires as soon as possible.
Fluid Levels
Don’t forget to check your vehicle’s vital fluids as well. These include oil, windshield wiper fluid, brake fluid, power-steering fluid and coolant. Coolant is especially important, as this fluid keeps your engine from overheating (a common issue in the summer). If you aren’t sure how to check and top off or replace these fluids as needed, our team will be happy to help.
Windshield Wipers
Over time, your windshield wipers wear out, making them less effective and causing them to squeak loudly as they pass over the glass. If you notice your wipers aren’t working properly, they’ll need to be replaced.
Cabin Air Filter
Many customers aren’t aware of how important the cabin air filter is, and they wait to replace it until it’s dirty and ineffective. Since this filter cleans the air that enters your cabin — the air you breathe — it’s important to replace it regularly, especially if you have allergies. We sell genuine OEM parts here at Lexus of Mobile, and we’d be happy to help you find the right filter for your car, whether you want to replace it yourself or have our service technicians do it for you.
Other Vehicle Issues
If you’re having more complex issues with your Lexus model — such as a dead battery, squealing brakes or problems indicated by dashboard lights — bring your vehicle in for service as soon as you can. We want you to drive safely, and issues like these could be potentially hazardous. Our service team will diagnose and fix your Lexus model so you can be fully confident, no matter where you drive.
If you’d like to learn more about summer maintenance or have any other questions, contact us today or stop by Lexus of Mobile at 3024 Government Blvd, Mobile, AL 36606. We look forward to serving our customers near the Gulf Coast, Daphne and Spanish Fort.