Wintertime is usually considered the most hazardous time of the year to operate an automobile. Slippery driving conditions, chemically-treated roadways, and unpredictable storms bring the winter months to the top of the charts as the most dangerous time of the year to be on the road. Because of that, leading up to the colder months, many people find themselves searching “Ford service near me” to get their vehicle equipped for the harsh conditions. And while these considerations need to be made for dropping temperatures, it is important to not underestimate the importance of protecting your car from nature’s elements in warm weather as well.
Hot weather in the summertime presents unique challenges and vehicle maintenance needs, as do the in-between seasons of fall and spring. Many drivers do not realize that staying equipped for all types of weather can be essential to preventing wear and tear on their vehicles. However, today, we at Kings Ford Quick Lane are going to explain how this is true and go over some ways to equip your vehicle to prevent seasonal damage. So without further ado, let’s get into it.
How to Maintain Your Vehicle During Hot Weather Months
If you haven’t used your air conditioning in a while, don’t forget to check your AC before the heat of summer takes over. Have a mechanic at King’s Ford Quick Lane look over your AC unit and take care of them before you really need to use it. Anytime your vehicle faces major temperature shifts, it’s also important to pay attention to your tire pressure. If you don’t have a tire pressure monitor in your vehicle, make a point to check it at the gas station and adjust as needed. At Kings Ford Quick Lane, we can rotate or replace your tires as needed, as well as check tire pressure and tread.
With summertime road trips, it’s easy to accumulate garbage or clutter in your car that can quickly become stinky and sticky in the summer heat. If you’re planning lots of longer rides, eating in the car usually means more crumbs and stains that only set faster under the hot sun.
Keeping certain items in your vehicle makes clean-up easier and less likely to leave any lasting damage. All-weather mats aren’t just for the snow and mud; they also come in handy after juice or ice cream spills hit your vehicle’s floor. Instead of scrubbing, you can simply hose them off when you get home. Leave water wipes and a mini vacuum in your car to make a habit of tackling messes the same day that they happen. It never hurts to keep a designated container reserved for garbage on hand. Empty it when you reach your destination so you can drive home in a clean car.
Keep Your Car Running Smoothly Despite Wintery Conditions
In a perfect world, our vehicles would stay safely tucked away in the garage through the winter season, only to come out of hibernation when icy weather is long gone. For most of us, this is not a realistic scenario. If you rely on your vehicle to carry you through the winter, there are a few preventative measures you can take to help it survive the season in good shape.
It’s not only the salt at the beach that can damage your vehicle, but the salt and sand that kicks up after driving over treated roadways can also cause serious damage, often in places where you can’t see it. Regular car washes can remove harsh solutes and protect against long term damage to expensive mechanical parts. If you have any concerns about your vehicle’s major components, take your car to our shop. We can take a look at the undercarriage, check tires, and make sure everything is in great working order.
No matter how much of a rush you’re in, never give in to the temptation of shoveling snow off of your car. This will leave you with lasting scratches that will need to be repaired. Instead, use a soft broom and give yourself ample time in the morning to let your defroster do the work for you. Consider installing a remote car starter to make your life easier.
Mild Weather Vehicle Maintenance
Spring and fall are great times to take care of the routine maintenance your vehicle requires. As you move into “back to school” mode and start prepping for the upcoming holiday season, why not get oil changes, belt checks, or fluid replacements done to keep your car running smoothly and supporting your busy schedule. Fall is also a great time to address any rust spots that will see prolonged exposure to moisture in icy weather.
In the springtime, the birds and the bees are two unsuspecting enemies to your car’s exterior. If you have one, now’s a great time to clean out that garage and start using it for parking. You could also invest in a car cover to keep your vehicle looking like new. Parking under a tree leads to stains of acidic bird droppings or wild berries, which lead to gradual erosion. A good wash and wax prior to spring will help fortify your car with added resilience against the natural world.
A vehicle in motion isn’t able to dodge the “gifts” of springtime, either. With a new generation of insects emerging, one trip on the highway can leave your windshield littered with splatter marks of bugs who met an untimely death on your commute. Unfortunately, this issue can’t be avoided, but keeping your wiper fluid compartment full, your windshield wipers in good condition (by having King’s Ford replace them as needed), and taking a regular spin through the local car wash can minimize any hindrance to your visibility or at least keep your car from looking like an industrial fly swatter.
Servicing at Kings Ford Quick Lane
Don’t let neglected maintenance slow you down. Taking care of your car should be marked on your yearly calendar. At Kings Ford Quick Lane, we understand that life gets busy. It’s easy to put your car service on the back-burner until major problems arise. That’s why we do everything in our power to make getting car service as hassle-free as possible. Appointments are preferred, but walk-ins are always welcome. Check our website for up-to-the-minute updates on our current walk-in availability so you won’t waste time during our busier time slots.
Our website also lists generous coupons and offers that you won’t want to miss. Here, you’ll find things like discounted oil changes, complimentary brake inspections, free battery testing, tire discounts, brake pad warranties, and more. At Kings Ford Quick Lane, we believe that keeping up with your vehicle maintenance shouldn’t break the bank. Our offers are always changing, so be sure to check back and take advantage of our savings and rebates.
The type of services we offer range from alignment adjustments to air conditioning repairs and transmission fixes all the way to electrical care. We cover all the basics, including brakes, batteries, blades, bulbs, and belts. Pop in to visit us on 8755 Fields Ertel Road in Cincinnati and get back out on the road in no time. Use our vehicle check-up report to identify issues and take action before it’s too late. No matter what time of the year it is, we look forward to becoming your go-to vehicle service center.