Summer is coming… Is your car ready for it? While you will surely take the road and enjoy the sunshine this summer, the hot weather can take its toll on your vehicle. Here is a list of things you might want to look into, to make sure your upcoming road trips are safe and pleasant.

Check your oil

Summers tend to be quite hot in Mauritius. It is noteworthy that for the good running of your car, higher temperatures require higher oil weight/viscosity. Most new cars do not need that much maintenance and work perfectly on the same viscosity Older cars, however, might need heavier oil to compensate for internal engine wear and tear.

Before switching, do some research and ensure that your car make will fare well with the heavier oil.

Check your battery date

Be wary of your car battery in the heat If it is older than three years old, get it tested. You may simply purchase a new unit as well, as a preventive measure to avoid getting stuck on the road under the scorching sun.

Check the car fluids

The greatest cause of summer breakdowns is overheating. Make sure your radiator’s coolant fluid is performing as it should. It is essential that the level, condition, and concentration of the coolant is checked periodically (ideally every 12 to 24 months). A 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water is usually recommended. Check for eventual leaks as well.

Check the air filters

Driving around with dirty filters… there’s nothing worse to prevent fresh air from getting to your engine and inside your car. This can have a lasting effect on your engine’s well-being. Consider washable and reusable air filters for long-term savings!

Check your AC

Test your air conditioning system and make sure it blows the cold air you’ll need to deal with the upcoming heat. If it is not working as it should, ask for a test using pressure gauges. This will help you diagnose the real problem, fix it as required and avoid unnecessary replacement.