How to Prepare Your Car for Hot Weather: A Step-by-Step Guide

Summer is around the corner, and while you’re breaking out the shorts and sunglasses, your car needs some love too. Rising temperatures can take a serious toll on your vehicle—from overheating engines to weakened batteries and worn tires. That’s why it’s essential to prepare your car for hot weather with a proper maintenance routine. Proper summer car maintenance is crucial to ensure your vehicle remains reliable and safe during the hot months.
At Kunes Ford of East Moline, we’ve put together the ultimate summer car prep guide to help you beat the heat and avoid breakdowns.

Your vehicle’s performance can suffer in extreme heat. Without the right car care for heat, you risk:

• Engine overheating
• Battery failure
• Tire blowouts
• AC system issues
  Reduced fluid efficiency

Dealing with a hot car can be challenging, but with the right precautions, you can keep your vehicle cool and comfortable.
Following this step-by-step summer car care routine can keep your ride cool, efficient, and road-ready.

The first line of defense against overheating is your car's cooling system.

• Inspect the radiator for cracks or leaks 
• Check coolant levels and top off if needed 
• Schedule a radiator and coolant check with Kunes if it’s been over two years since your last flush 
• Look for worn or cracked hoses

Pro Tip: A fresh coolant mix (usually 50/50 antifreeze and water) is key for car overheating prevention in summer.

Heat speeds up chemical reactions inside your battery, which can shorten its lifespan.

•  Look for corrosion on terminals
•  Test your battery’s voltage (especially if it’s over 3 years old)
•  Clean off grime and secure the connections
•  Replace if it's weak or unreliable

At Kunes Ford of East Moline, we’ll test your battery and recommend the best solution for hot-weather reliability.

Your car relies on several fluids to function properly, and heat can affect them all.

•  Engine oil – Synthetic oil performs better in high temps
•  Brake fluid – Check for discoloration or low levels
•  Transmission fluid – Ensure clean, full, and functioning
•  Power steering fluid – Inspect for leaks or low levels
•  Washer fluid – Use a summer-specific formula for bugs and grime

These are all included in our seasonal vehicle maintenance at Kunes.

Nothing’s worse than an AC that quits during a heatwave.

•  Test the system for strong, cold airflow
•  Listen for unusual noises
•  Replace your cabin air filter
•  Recharge refrigerant if necessary
•  Schedule AC maintenance for summer if your system isn't cooling effectively

Kunes Ford of East Moline offers full AC inspections to keep you cool all season long.

A tune-up ensures all systems are functioning at their best.
Always refer to your owner's manual to ensure you are following the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle.
 Inspect belts, spark plugs, and filters  Check engine diagnostics  Confirm battery, brakes, and ignition systems are healthy  Schedule a summer car inspection checklist at your local Kunes location.

In addition to the essential checks, here are some additional maintenance tasks to perform before the hot summer months:

1. Check Your Windshield Washer Fluid: Ensure your windshield washer fluid is topped off and the jets are properly directing the fluid. A clean windshield is crucial for visibility, especially with the increased bug splatter during summer.
2. Check Your Spare Tire: Don’t forget about your spare tire. Ensure it’s in good condition and inflated to the recommended pressure. A well-maintained spare can be a lifesaver in case of a flat.
3. Check Your Car’s Cooling System: Your car’s cooling system is critical in preventing overheating. Check the coolant level and top it off if needed. Inspect the system for any leaks or worn hoses.
4. Check Your Tire Tread: Adequate tire tread is essential for safe driving, especially on hot, slick roads. Ensure your tire tread depth is at least 2/32 of an inch to maintain traction and safety.
5. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Familiarize yourself with your owner’s manual to ensure you’re following the recommended maintenance schedule for your vehicle. This can help you stay on top of necessary checks and services.

Before hitting the road during the hot summer months, perform a final check to ensure your car is ready:

1. Check Your Tire Pressure Gauge: Make sure your tire pressure gauge is accurate and functioning properly. This tool is essential for maintaining the correct tire pressure.
2. Check Your Air Conditioner: Ensure your car’s air conditioner is blowing cold air and functioning efficiently. If you notice any issues, have it serviced to avoid discomfort during your drives.
3. Check Your Engine Oil Level: Verify that your engine oil level is at the recommended level. Proper lubrication is crucial for engine performance, especially in hot weather.
4. Check Your Car Battery: Ensure your car battery is holding a charge and functioning properly. Summer heat can strain car batteries, so it’s important to check their condition.
5. Check Your Car’s Air Conditioning System: Double-check that your car’s air conditioning system is not leaking refrigerant and is cooling effectively. A well-maintained AC system is essential for comfort during the hot summer months.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your car is ready for the hot summer months and reduce the risk of breakdowns and other issues.

At Kunes Ford of East Moline, we specialize in seasonal auto service tailored to your vehicle’s needs. Our summer car service includes all the essentials:

• Coolant flush
• Battery check
• Tire inspection
• Fluid top-offs
• AC service
• Full hot weather car maintenance checkup

Our summer car maintenance services ensure your vehicle is ready to handle the heat and stay reliable all season long.