Texas Heat and Your Car
Most can agree: There’s nothing worse than sliding into a car on a triple-digit day — especially if leather seats are involved. But extreme heat is more than a nuisance in Texas; it can majorly impact our bodies, homes, and vehicles. Long-term heat exposure can overwork a vehicle, starting at the tires and reaching the electrical system.
How Heat Can Impact a Vehicle
Every Texan needs to know about the effects of heat damage on a vehicle, how to prevent it, and what to do if your vehicle succumbs to it. Prepare for the next heat wave by checking these areas of your vehicle.
Battery. Look for corrosive buildup, which can lead to poor function and failure. The battery’s electrolyte evaporates faster in extreme heat, increasing the likelihood of corrosion. Typically, batteries last between three and five years. But if you’re questioning its longevity, some auto parts stores, such as AutoZone, do free battery testing.
Exterior and interior. Over time, UV rays can cause your vehicle’s paint to fade, bubble, or peel. Dashboards can also crack and buckle, and the rubber seals around doors and windows can deteriorate, causing damaging water leaks.
Tires. While extreme cold can deflate tires, extreme heat can overinflate them (up to 5 PSI during a heat wave). Overinflation leads to wear and tear, as well as reduced traction. During the hottest months, overinflated tires are more prone to blowouts.
Electrical system. Sensors, wiring, and other systems are also at risk during triple-digit weather. Much like in tires, heat causes expansion, which leads to separation. In the most extreme cases, it can lead to electrical fires.
Fluids. Engine oil, coolant, and transmission fluid can evaporate faster in extreme heat, which can lead to overheating or, worse, engine damage.
How to Handle Heat-Induced Issues
Even with these precautions, unexpected vehicle trouble can occur. Here’s what to do if you face one of these common heat-related issues while on the road.
Overheated Engine. Pull over to a safe area as soon as possible. Turn off the air conditioner and crank the heat. It seems counterintuitive, but this pulls heat away from the engine. Let the engine cool for at least 15 minutes before adding radiator fluid (if you have it). Carefully restart the vehicle, monitoring the temperature gauge. Go to a repair shop if it keeps overheating.
Tire Blowout. Stay calm and resist slamming on the brakes. Lightly accelerate while driving as straight as possible; get a firm grip on the steering wheel. Gently remove your foot from the accelerator. Turn on your emergency lights and gently tap the brakes once you’ve slowed to 30 mph or less. Pull to the side of the road.
How to Beat the Heat
“Hot” is Texas’ default setting during the summer, but keeping your eye on the weather can pay off. If you know a heat wave is coming, top off your vehicle’s fluids, inspect the battery, and check your tire pressure. On the inverse, you never know when the next summer storm is around the corner. You don’t want heat and hail damage.
Where you park can affect how your vehicle fares in the heat. If you have a garage or carport, now’s the time to use it. (A little spring-cleaning goes a long way in these spaces!) If you don’t, try to park in the shade or use a windshield cover to protect your car’s interior.
It might seem basic, but keeping a seasonal maintenance schedule can do the most good for your vehicle. The best part is that there are several things you can do yourself without involving a mechanic, whether it’s checking the tread on your tires or changing an air filter.
While you’re at it, now’s a good time to check on your auto insurance to ensure you have the coverage you need. Your Agent can answer auto insurance FAQ and help adjust your policy to fit your needs.
Heat is a part of life in Texas. A few proactive extra steps can keep your vehicle reliable even in the hottest conditions.
Now that you’ve got your vehicles prepped for the impending heat, take care of yourself and your family, too, with these summer safety tips.