How extreme heat affects cars and what you can do about it

Summer in metro Phoenix is known for pool days, barbecues, popsicles and hot sunny weather. Especially the hot sunny weather.

Extreme high temperatures are common in the summer here, and the heat and sun can cause cosmetic damage to your car, as well as create potentially dangerous driving conditions if the battery and other components aren’t regularly maintained.

How you drive is also important in extra hot weather. Avoid aggressive driving, sudden braking and excessive idling, as these can put additional stress on the engine and other components.

Here’s how extreme heat affects cars and what you can do to keep your vehicle running safely and looking good.

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Can extreme heat cause car problems?

Yes, extreme heat can affect your car. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation’s website, having a “vehicle breakdown in extreme heat can be very dangerous, especially if you try to repair your vehicle yourself (which causes exertion) or if you must wait for help to arrive.”

Some of the most common problems caused by extreme heat are:

Overheating.
Battery problems.
Tire issues.
Fluid evaporation.
Fuel system problems.
Interior damage.

Regular maintenance and paying attention to your car’s temperature gauge can help prevent issues before they become severe.

For more information and tips on staying safe during the heat click go to ADOT.com

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How do I take care of my car in extreme heat?

Taking care of your car in extreme heat is important for safe driving and to prevent damage.

Here are some tips for maintaining your vehicle during hot weather.

Check tire pressure: “One thing we advise people about is to watch out for underinflated tires because the combination of underinflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout. So check your tire pressure and make sure you know what your recommended level is,” said Elliott.
Inspect the cooling system: Check the coolant level regularly and look for signs of leaks.
Monitor the engine temperature: Pay attention to your car’s temperature gauge to ensure that the engine is not overheating. If the temperature rises significantly, pull over, turn off the engine and allow it to cool before continuing. Contact a mechanic if the problem persists.
Check the battery: High temperatures can shorten the life of your car battery. Regularly inspect it for corrosion and clean the terminals if needed. If your battery is older or showing signs of weakness, have it tested or replaced. “Make sure your battery is up to snuff. If it’s a few years old, you might want to have it checked before you go driving because heat can really do a number in your battery,” said Elliott.
Maintain proper fluid levels: In extreme heat, engine oil, transmission fluid and brake fluid can degrade more quickly than normal. Regularly check their levels and top them up as necessary.
Park in the shade: Whenever possible, park in the shade to minimize sun exposure. If shade is not available, consider using a windshield cover to protect the interior from excessive heat.
Use a car cover: If you’re parking your car for an extended period, consider using a car cover specifically designed to protect against UV rays. This can help prevent damage to the paint and interior surfaces.
Protect the paint and interior: According to AutoTrader.com, car wax or paint sealant and protect the paint from the sun’s UV rays and minimize fading or oxidation.
Keep the car clean: Regularly wash your car to remove dirt, dust and debris that can harm the finish.

Find out more at AAA: Car Care Tips for Extreme Heat.

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Tips for summer driving in Arizona

When planning your summer road trip in Arizona, take precautions just in case your car has a breakdown.

“In case you get caught in the heat, one of the main things you should do is to make sure your fuel tank is reasonably full. We recommend three-quarters full but you want to be able to run your air conditioning in case you have to stop alongside the road,” said Steve Elliott, ADOT spokesman.

“If you have to exit your vehicle, or you have to pull off the road, be careful not to pull off on tall grass because your catalytic converter can start a fire in that grass,” said Elliott.

Elliott also mentions carrying cold water, wearing sunscreen and bringing an umbrella just in case you pull aside in an unshaded area.

Is it bad for cars to sit in the heat?

Occasional exposure to excessive heat won’t cause damage, but consistent or prolonged exposure can cause deterioration over time.

According to Progressive.com, “UV rays and heat exposure can lead to paint fading and oxidation, upholstery damage, dashboard cracking and other material breakdowns. Foreign substances like bird poop or dust can cause corrosive damage if left on the car too long, especially in the sun.”

Besides interior and exterior design damage, extreme heat can cause your car’s fluids to evaporate.

What’s the fastest way to cool a hot car?

According to Findlay Acura.com in Nevada, here’s how to cool your car’s interior more quickly:

Open windows and doors: As soon as you enter the car, roll down the windows and open the doors to allow the hot air to escape.
Use the “ventilation” mode: Set your car’s air conditioning system to the “ventilation” mode initially. This mode draws in outside air without cooling it, helping to push out the hot air.
Direct hot air out: Adjust the air conditioning vents to face upward or toward the open windows. This helps direct the hot air out of the car.
Turn on the air conditioning: Once the initial hot air has been expelled, switch the air conditioning to the “recirculation” mode and turn it on to its maximum setting. This will cool the air being circulated inside the car more efficiently.
Lower the temperature gradually: It may be tempting to set the air conditioning to the lowest temperature right away, but it’s generally more efficient to start with a slightly higher setting and gradually lower it as the car cools down. This prevents excessive strain on the air conditioning system.
Block direct sunlight: If possible, use sunshades or windshield covers to block sunlight from entering the car when parked. This helps to reduce the initial heat buildup and makes it easier to cool the car later.

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