Seasonal maintenance is especially important in the hot, dry climate and extreme conditions we face during the long Las Vegas summer. Before things start to heat up there are a number of things you can do to prepare your vehicle and make sure that you have tip-top driving conditions for those hot summer months.
Top 6 Ways to Get Your Car Ready for Spring in Las Vegas
1. Check the Tire Pressure
Tire pressure changes approximately 1 pound per square inch for every 10 degrees of outside temperature change. To get a proper tire pressure you want to check them cold. Even a short drive can give a false reading. It is also important not to overfill your tires as it can wear the tread on the center of your tire.
2. Rotate Your Tires
Rotating your tires on a regular basis will extend the life of your tire tread among other positives that arise from this simple auto maintenance service. Follow this link to learn more about Rotating Your Tires and why it’s important.
3. Check Your Wiper Blades
Las Vegas summers mean monsoon season, and while we don’t get much rain around the valley, many people forget about this easy maintenance until it’s too late. August is usually the wettest month for Las Vegas residents, and our official monsoon season runs through July and August. But precipitation is generally more likely during the hotter months, so being prepared is suggested.
4. Flush and Fill Your Cooling System
No one wants to face breaking down on the side of the road when temperatures soar well over 100 degrees. For this reason we suggest at least checking your cooling system and if necessary having a car care professional flush and fill the system to remove stubborn rust, grease and sediment.
5. Check the Radiator & Gas Cap
Often overlooked is the periodic check and replacement of your engine’s radiator and gas caps. A snug radiator cap helps prevent your cooling system from boiling over. A tightly sealed gas cap helps prevent octane from evaporating. It is estimated that some 20 percent of gas caps are damaged, loose or even missing. The small costs of replacing these items can save you substantial amounts of money in the long run.
6. Check the Battery & Spark Plugs
Be sure to check your battery posts and their connections for corrosion and security. Checking your spark plugs at the same time can ensure that you get where you are going during the hottest months of the year.
