The state of Georgia is blessed with abundant sunshine, but that is not always a good thing. When the temperatures spike into the triple digits, drivers throughout the state are looking for ways to keep their cool. Even more importantly, those drivers are looking for ways to keep their cars cool.
An overheating engine is more than a mere annoyance. Allowing your car, truck or SUV to run hot can put your engine at risk and cost you a lot of money. That is why it is so important to protect the vehicle you drive as the heat of another Georgia summer draws near. Here are some tips for keeping your vehicle from overheating in the hot Georgia sun.
Flush Your Coolant
The coolant in your tank may not be enough to protect your vehicle when the weather gets hot, so take the time to flush the old coolant and replace it with brand new coolant. Over time, the coolant in your tank loses its effectiveness, and now is the time to make the change.
Ask your mechanic to flush your coolant and replace it now, before the heat arrives in earnest. The new coolant will provide a higher level of protection so that you can enjoy the Georgia summer without worry.
Check Your Thermostat
If your thermostat is not working properly, the temperature reflected on your dashboard may not be accurate. That means your car could overheat even if the temperature gauge does not register a rise.
If you have any doubts at all about your thermostat, now is the time to check it out. Your mechanic can check your thermostat, make sure it is accurate and replace it if necessary.
Avoid Prolonged Idling
Letting your car idle in the heat of a Georgia summer is one of the worst things you can do for your engine. If you plan to be parked for a prolonged period, do your engine a favor and turn off the key.
Use caution when driving in heavy traffic, since you could be idling for long periods of time. Keep a close watch on your temperature gauge and be ready to pull over if the indicator moves too close to the hot end of the spectrum. It is best to pull over and let your car cool off than allow it to overheat and damage your engine.
The heat of a Georgia summer can take a toll on your car, but you do not have to let it get you down. With a few simple precautions, you can protect your engine from damage and enjoy the summer season.
