Expert’s guide to summer car maintenance
Woohoo! As I write this article, New Zealand’s famous sun is pouring in through the windows and I’m reminded of everything wonderful about living in this country. Not least the idea of hitting the road and getting out to a beach after months spent in lockdown!
If you’re anything like us, the car hasn’t been getting much action over the past few months, and as we’re planning to escape the city this summer, and with many of the My Auto Shop sharing the same idea, we thought it would be useful to cover off a few essential car hygiene tips for this time of year. It’ll make those long drives all the more relaxed, trust me!
It’s all about prevention at this stage, although you can certainly fit in a new year service if you’ve got time ahead of the trip.
How’s your air conditioning?
We all know how important air conditioning is when you’re out on the open road with the sun beating down on you! It’s fairly easy to clean your air conditioning system’s filter yourself, and actually it’s surprising how many people don’t know this! Check out this video for an easy how-to clean your car air filter. If you’re not confident, you can check in with a mechanic through My Auto Shop and we’ll help you get it sorted.
Make sure your tyres are up to scratch
Before you set out, be sure to check your tyres. How’s the tread looking? If it’s looking a bit thin, we recommend getting them replaced before you set out. Make sure you’ve got at least 3mm of tread remaining. New Zealand’s roads, while getting better, are notoriously treacherous in places, and you don’t want to be caught short and slide into an accident.
Also, check your inflation is at a good level and that you have a spare tyre in the back.
Engine light, check!
For novices, the engine light is literally the engine symbol on your dashboard. If it’s on, be aware that something isn’t quite right and you’re best to see a mechanic ASAP. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to diagnose the issue by virtue of the light being turned on, but it’s your first signal that you need to get something looked at.
My Auto Shop can you put you in touch with a mechanic in nearly every part of New Zealand, so if you have the misfortune of an issue, we’re still here to help. There are plenty of mobile mechanics available too if worst comes to worst and you find yourself stranded in the middle of… somewhere.
Replace your vehicle’s engine oil
In line with the above, check you’ve got enough engine oil. It could be a gamechanger for when you hit the road. Engine oil serves the vehicle in many ways, including keeping the engine clean, lubricating the mechanics and other internal parts, as well as preventing corrosion inside your engine.
Riding around with dirty oil is no good for your car. Again, you don’t want to be stranded on a state highway under the blistering sun waiting for a tow truck! You can buy engine oil from most gas/petrol stations and it’s super easy to top up. If you’re not confident, ask one of the attendants and in many cases they’ll be happy to help you out.
On that note, check your transmision fluid, your engine coolant and other fluids at the same time. It all makes for a smooth, easy ride and a good time out on the road!
Schedule a full inspection and service
Getting a mechanic to take a look at your car is a very sensible idea. We expect a lot from our cars, and often that summer sun is going to put added pressure onto its systems. It can also put your mind at ease, knowing the mechanic is going to give you a full tune up, including checking the air conditioning, coolant levels, engine oil, washer fluid, windshield wipers and so on. Yep, it’s a full A-Z. To find a mechanic in your area, use My Auto Shop to get the process started.
Happy travels!