While the sun might feel good on your skin, it’s not so great for your engine. As temperatures climb, your vehicle’s fluids play a critical role in keeping everything running smoothly. Without coolant and other fluids, you may end up frustrated with an overheated engine.
At Strickland Brothers, with locations throughout the Southeast, we understand what your vehicle is up against in the summer heat, and we’re here to help keep it cool and dependable all season long.
Why Heat Puts Extra Stress on Your Vehicle
Engines naturally run hot, but summer heat can push them to their limit. As the temperatures climb, so does the risk of overheating. While modern vehicles are built to handle rough conditions, they still rely on a delicate balance of fluids to stay cool and function efficiently.
Coolant is your engine’s first line of defense against heat. It circulates through the radiator and engine, absorbing excess heat and helping regulate the engine’s temperature. If coolant levels drop too low, or if it becomes old or contaminated, it can’t do its job. The result? Steam pouring from under the hood and a trip that ends in a tow truck.
But coolant isn’t the only fluid that matters in warm weather. Motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield washer fluid all play important roles. Each one keeps different systems lubricated, pressurized, or clean, and all of them are affected by temperature extremes.
How to Stay Ahead of Heat-Related Car Trouble
Fortunately, fluid-related issues are easy to avoid with regular maintenance. The key is knowing when to check and top off your fluids, or even better, letting a professional do it for you.
At Strickland Brothers, every oil change includes our signature 7-point courtesy check. That means we’re not just draining your old oil and sending you on your way. We’re also checking to make sure essential fluids are at the right levels, inspecting your engine and cabin air filters, examining your wiper blades, testing your headlights and taillights, checking tire pressure, and keeping an eye out for any obvious issues under the hood. It only takes a few minutes, but it can save you hours of headache later.
How Often Should Fluids Be Checked?
Some fluids, like motor oil, need to be changed regularly. Others, like coolant fluid, last longer but still require occasional maintenance. If you’re not sure when your last fluid check was or whether your coolant is ready for another summer, don’t wait for a warning light.
We’ve seen firsthand how fast things can go south when fluids are ignored. A customer might come in for a quick oil change, only for us to spot low coolant and catch a potential overheating issue just in time. This is why routine car maintenance is so important.
Come See Us Before the Heat Gets to Your Car
The temperatures are already rising, so now is the time to make sure your fluids are in good shape. It’s a simple step, but an important one. When you swing by Strickland Brothers, you can count on fast, friendly service and a team that treats your car like it’s their own. Whether it’s topping off your oil or just giving your vehicle a once-over before your next adventure, we’re here to help you drive confidently, no matter how hot it gets outside. Click here to find a location near you, and here for a coupon to save on your next visit!
