Spring arrived in Arizona, and that means warm temperatures are just around the corner. You can get your car ready for the change in seasons by following this simple check list suggested by our services manager, Mike Tibbetts.
- AC System
With March temperatures hitting the low 90’s, many of you already are using your vehicle’s air conditioning. This is the perfect time to come into Desert Car Care McQueen in Gilbert and have your cooling system checked to ensure it’s working efficiently.
“We just stocked up on all our refrigerants and coolants,” Tibbetts said. “It’s best to come now before the really hot temperatures arrive and make sure your AC isn’t leaking, or have any other issues.”
Turn on your AC and check to see if the air is blowing cool enough. If not, you may need more refrigerant, or there could a clogged condenser, loose belts, or a leak in the system. It’s definitely better to fix it now rather than have your AC fail while you’re stuck in rush-hour traffic in mid-June.
- Battery
Arizona’s high temperatures also are hazardous to the life of your vehicle’s battery. While typically a battery is supposed to last several years – some even have life-time warranties – that’s just not the case with a vehicle driven in 100-plus degree heat on hot pavement. Car batteries get very hot in Arizona, and as a result internal fluids can evaporate causing the batteries to last typically around three years.
Bring your car in to Desert Car Care McQueen’s service department and we can evaluate the health of your battery and ensure it is ready to withstand the summer heat.
- Air pressure in tires
Tibbetts says it’s always a good idea to check the air pressure in your tires when temperatures fluctuate. Underinflated tires can overheat, especially as roadways heat up during spring and summer, causing blowouts. Also, take a close look at your tread to be sure all four tires are wearing evenly. If you notice uneven wear, it could mean an alignment issue.
- Wiper blades
We don’t get to use our wipers all that frequently in Arizona, but when you need them, they are essential to driving safely in rainy weather. Take a quick look to be sure they are in good repair. If the rubber is discolored, frayed, or split, then it’s time to replace them.
- Fluid levels, belts, and hoses
Take a few moments to check the various fluid levels in your vehicle, or ask one our trusted technicians to check for you. Also, look under the hood at belts and hoses to ensure they are not frayed, discolored or splitting.
Follow these five guidelines, and your vehicle will be well on the way to being ready for spring and summer adventures.
References and resources for additional reading:
Spring into vehicle maintenance with this checklist
Checklist: 11 Car fix-ups for spring
Our technicians at Desert Car Care McQueen are ready to help keep your vehicle in top working order. Book an appointment today. Have a car care question you’d like to ask our team of experts? Send emails to info@desertcarcaremcqueen.com Desert Car Care McQueen provides top-quality auto repair in Gilbert, Mesa, and the surrounding East Valley. We are located at 1655 W. Guadalupe Road, near the intersection of McQueen and Guadalupe.