Summer Driving Tips for Texans

Texas summers can be tough for drivers, especially when entering the cabin and it feels scorching hot. Driving in such heat is not just uncomfortable but potentially risky as the blazing sun can cause damage to the roads, leading to construction zones popping up. You will also likely come across more pedestrians and people on motorcycles this season. To help ensure everyone stays safe on the road, here are some quick tips for driving in Texas during the summer.

Vehicle Check

Before taking off for summer vacation, schedule a multi-point inspection with a trusted service center in San Antonio to confirm your vehicle is ready to go. Here’s a checklist of things you should confirm the service team checks before you start driving.

• Air Conditioning: Summer heat can make your vehicle feel like a sauna. After being parked under the scorching sun for hours, you should run your AC for a few minutes to prevent any issues. This helps prevent any potential problems from arising due to inactivity. It is also important to check that the refrigerant levels are adequate for optimal performance.
• Coolant Levels: After making sure you and your passengers are feeling cool, the next thing you need to do is make certain the parts of your car also remain cool enough to not overheat. Engines heat up as they burn fuel and energy, and they are likely to reach extreme levels of heat when in a hot environment. The risk increases when you cover large distances, at high speeds, or where the terrain is inclined. Keeping your engine cool is key, so be sure that you have sufficient coolant.
• Tires: Your tires are what keep you in contact with the road – literally. Even when one of your four tires goes, it makes you immobile. It is important to remember that air expands in hot temperatures, so in the summer, the air in your tires will expand causing your tires to swell. The high tire pressure can lead to blowouts. Therefore, check your tires during the summer season to make sure they are not overinflated.
• Battery Life: Using your car regularly helps keep the battery charged, but just like anything else, it won’t last forever. The more you push it to its limits, the shorter its lifespan becomes. Since everything in cars relies on electricity from your battery, it’s crucial to double-check that yours is in top shape before hitting the road this summer.

Driver and Passenger Safety

If you’re planning a summer road trip, you must be prepared for any situation. Enhance your travel experience by packing emergency items and essentials:

• Food: Whether you unfortunately get stuck on the side of the road or have not seen an exit with a decent convenient store or fast food restaurant, it is a good idea to have some non-perishable foods in your car for the road. Consider packing items such as granola bars or trail mix.
• Beverages: Stay hydrated by packing plenty of water and drinks for everyone traveling with you.
• First Aid Kit: Everyone should have a basic first aid kit in their car.
• Emergency Kit: You should also prepare an emergency kit. It should include jumper cables, flares, flashlights, triangle reflectors, blankets, tools, and spare bulbs.
• Communication Devices: Stay connected while on the move by keeping at least one mobile device and a car charger handy.

Stay Safe in San Antonio this Summer

By following the tips above, you will have a fun and safe summer road trip, regardless of your destination. Don’t forget to arrange a vehicle check-up by scheduling an appointment with the experts at Red McCombs Superior Body Shop. We’re excited to see you at our service center in San Antonio, TX.