How Do I Prepare My Car For Summer?
Living in a place like the Valley of the Sun means preparing your car, truck, or SUV for the sweltering summer months is a must. The heat here is intense, and the season seems to stretch on forever compared to other parts of the country. Whether you're new to the area or a long-time resident, these tips can help keep you safer and more comfortable on the road.
Shade Parking:
When it comes to parking your vehicle, opting for shade isn't just about finding a tree. During monsoon season or if you're worried about bird droppings, parking under a tree might not be ideal. Instead, consider the time of day and position your car so the sun hits the side windows instead of the windshield. For instance, if it's around 3 PM, the sun sets in the west, meaning you'll want to avoid parking your car facing westward.
Sun Protection:
Protecting your dashboard is crucial to prevent it from fading or cracking due to excessive sunlight. A simple sunshade can work wonders, keeping your interior cooler and reducing glare. Additionally, applying window tinting can help keep your car cooler while shielding you from harmful UV rays while driving.
Maximizing Your AC:
In the desert heat, having a fully functional air conditioning system is essential. Here are some practical tips:
- Use the outside air mode and roll down all your windows for a couple of minutes to push out the hot air. Once done, roll up the windows and adjust your AC to your preferred settings.
- Regularly check your air conditioning system to ensure it’s working efficiently. A professional technician can inspect the system and confirm the refrigerant levels are optimal, ensuring the coldest air possible.
Ventilation Tips:
To enhance airflow while your vehicle is parked, crack the windows slightly and adjust the vents to the open position. However, skip this step during monsoon season or if rain is expected.
Maintain Your Vehicle:
In the harsh desert climate, regular maintenance is key. Regular oil changes and belt inspections are vital. Ensure your battery is in good condition and check fluid levels regularly. It's also recommended to flush and refill your vehicle's coolant annually before summer starts. Tire checks are equally important since the high road temperatures in Arizona cause tires to degrade faster than usual.
Essential Items to Keep in Your Car:
Along with a spare tire and first aid kit, consider these additional items, especially if you're new to the desert environment.
- Extra water for both you and your car. In extreme heat, staying hydrated is crucial, and having water on hand can prevent overheating.
- A cloth steering wheel cover or small towel to protect your hands from scorching leather seats.
- Non-perishable snacks like crackers or granola bars that won't spoil in the heat.
- A portable cooler with an ice pack or insulated shopping bag for perishable items. This is particularly useful when returning from grocery shopping to avoid spoilage.
- An emergency kit containing a flashlight, flares, jumper cables, a blanket, and basic tools like wrenches, a ratchet, screwdrivers, and pliers.
Food Safety While Driving:
- Plan your stops carefully, prioritizing groceries last. The sooner you get home with your purchases, the better. Consider placing groceries in the backseat to avoid the trunk's heat.
- For snacks stored in the car, opt for non-perishable options like dried fruits and nuts that withstand high temperatures.
- When carrying drinks, avoid carbonated beverages that may explode in the heat. Instead, choose non-carbonated drinks or juice boxes.
Eating Outdoors:
- Bringé€‚é‡ food but avoid leftovers. Cooked meals like fried chicken are safer and should be consumed within a couple of hours.
- Store perishables in a cooler until ready to eat.
- Dairy products and mayonnaise are best avoided at outdoor gatherings. They spoil quickly in the heat.
- Discard any food left outside for over an hour to prevent foodborne illnesses.
It’s no secret that leaving children or pets in a car, even for a short time, can be extremely dangerous. Interior temperatures in parked cars can rise to over 140 degrees Fahrenheit within minutes, making it critical never to leave anyone unattended in a vehicle, especially during the hottest months.
Airpark Collision Center has been providing quality auto body repairs and exceptional customer service since 2006. Our monthly blog posts aim to share vehicle and passenger safety information with the Scottsdale community. If you need a collision damage estimate or any assistance, feel free to contact us or visit our website.
