Preparing Your Car for the Summer Heat

Living in a place known for its scorching summers, like the Valley of the Sun, requires extra attention to your vehicle. Unlike other regions where summer is just a fleeting few months, here it stretches on for what feels like eternity. Whether you're new to this environment or a seasoned local, these tips will help keep both you and your car comfortable and safe through the sweltering heat.

Optimize Your Parking Strategy:

Shade isn't always easy to find, especially during monsoon season or if you're worried about birds. Instead of parking under trees, think strategically about the time of day. For instance, if it's late afternoon, the sun will be setting in the west, so avoid parking your car facing westward. This small adjustment can make a big difference in keeping your interior cooler.

Enhance Your Vehicle's Comfort:

Protect your dashboard from sun damage by using a simple sunshade. This will prevent fading and cracking while keeping your car cooler. Additionally, consider installing high-quality window tints, which not only reduce heat but also shield you from harmful UV rays while driving.

Maximize Your Air Conditioning Efficiency:

Arizona summers demand reliable air conditioning. To ensure your A/C performs optimally:

• Use the external air circulation mode and roll down all your windows for a couple of minutes to push out the hot air before switching to recirculation mode. This pre-cools the cabin and improves efficiency.
• Schedule regular maintenance for your air conditioning system. A professional can check the refrigerant levels and ensure everything is functioning correctly, guaranteeing maximum cooling power.

Maintain Proper Ventilation:

When parked, cracked windows and adjusted vents can help circulate air, making the interior feel less stifling. However, skip this trick during monsoon season or when rain is forecasted.

Regular Vehicle Servicing:

Extreme heat demands regular upkeep. Keep your engine running smoothly with frequent oil changes and belt inspections. Check your battery, top off essential fluids, and flush your coolant annually before summer starts. Additionally, monitor your tire pressure frequently, as hot roads accelerate wear and tear.

Essential Items to Keep in Your Car:

While a spare tire and first aid kit are must-haves, here are some additional essentials, especially if you're adapting to desert living:

• Extra water bottles for both you and your car—dehydration is no joke, and overheated engines appreciate hydration too.
• A cloth steering wheel cover or small towel to protect yourself from scalding surfaces.
• Non-perishable snacks like granola bars or dried fruit for unexpected delays.
• A portable cooler with an ice pack or insulated bag for perishables when grocery shopping.
• An emergency kit containing a flashlight, flares, jumper cables, a blanket, and basic tools like wrenches and screwdrivers.

Safety Tips for Food Storage:

Hot cars can quickly spoil food. Here are some guidelines:

• Finish grocery shopping last to minimize exposure to heat. Store perishables in the passenger area rather than the trunk.
• For snacks kept in the car, opt for non-perishable options like nuts or dried fruit.
• When bringing drinks, avoid carbonated beverages to prevent explosions.

Outdoor Dining Etiquette:

Summertime calls for al fresco dining, but remember these rules:

• Bring适量的食物避免剩菜。
• 选择易保存的熟食，如炸鸡，并在两小时内食用完毕。
• 食物应存放在冷却器中直至准备食用。
• 避免在户外放置超过一小时的食物，以防变质。

Conclusion:

Never leave children or pets unattended in the car, even for a moment. Even short exposure can lead to dangerous temperatures inside your vehicle. In Phoenix, interiors can reach over 140 degrees Fahrenheit within minutes during peak summer months.

Opened in 2006, Airpark Collision Center specializes in quality auto body repairs and exceptional customer service. Our monthly blog posts aim to share vital vehicle and passenger safety tips with our Scottsdale community. For collision damage estimates or assistance, please contact us or visit our website.