Common Truck and Car Problems During Summer in Colorado

Summertime in Colorado can be a great time to get out and enjoy the weather, but it can also be a challenging time for your car or truck. Heat is the number one enemy of vehicles, and it can cause a lot of problems if you're not careful.

With the higher temperatures and increased exposure to the sun and wind, your vehicle can start to experience some problems. Though you have auto repair shops in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, to help you out with the best auto repair services, it's still important to be aware of the most common problems to avoid them.

Potential Truck and Car Problems Due to Excess Heat

Engine Overheating

One of the common issues during the summer is engine overheating. When your vehicle’s engine gets too hot, it can cause various other issues, including engine damage.

The vehicles with an engine temperature gauge will tell when your engine coolant is cold, normal, or overheating. If it gets into the red zone, it's time to pull over and let the engine cool down.

It happens due to several reasons that include:

• Low coolant levels
• Leaking coolant
• Faulty radiator cap
• Thermostat stuck open

If your vehicle is low on coolant or there is a leak, there's less fluid to circulate and dissipate the heat quickly enough, overheating your engine.

A faulty radiator cap can also cause overheating because it doesn't allow the system to build up enough pressure to circulate the coolant properly. And a stuck thermostat will cause the engine to stay hot even after turning off.

So if you're experiencing overheating issues, it's best to take your vehicle to an auto repair mechanic to fix the problem.

Tire Blowouts

Truck tires are larger and wider compared to cars; however, high temperatures in summers can impact them irrespective of the size. Heat can cause the air inside the tire to expand, which puts more pressure on the walls of the tires.

If the pressure gets too high, it can cause the tires to blow out. The summer season is considered high-risk for blowouts because of high temperatures and increased traffic.

An overinflated tire is just as dangerous as an underinflated one, so don't try to inflate them beyond the recommended level. Instead, to prevent tire blowouts, check your tire pressure often and make sure to inflate them to the recommended pressure level given in the owner's manual of your vehicle.

If you are unsure of the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle, it would be best to have a professional inspect the tire. Also, conduct regular year-round tire maintenance, so it helps you prevent blowouts.

AC Not Working

One of the worst things about summer is when your AC stops working. When the climate is hot and humid, nothing feels better than cranking up the AC in your vehicle. But if your AC is on the fritz, it can make for a very uncomfortable ride.

The most common reason for AC failure is a loss of refrigerant. This can happen due to leaks in the system or because the refrigerant has gone bad. If your AC isn't working, it's best to take it to a mechanic so they can diagnose the problem and fix it. Finding the root cause of the problem is essential to get it fixed, so it doesn't happen again in the future.

Dead Battery

The hotter it is, the harder your battery will work. And when you're using all that extra energy to run your AC, your battery can start to die. If your battery is three years old or more, it's at a higher risk for failure.

You can't control the weather, but you can take steps to prevent your battery from dying. You can check the battery terminals to ensure they're clean and free of corrosion. Make sure your battery is adequately charged. If your battery dies, don't try to jump-start it yourself. Take it to a mechanic or battery specialist to have them jump-start it for you.

Engine Fluids Leaking

Another common problem during the summer is engine fluids leaking. This can be caused by several things, including a blown gasket, a faulty seal, or an improperly fitted hose.

Leaking engine fluids can be a severe problem, and they're more common in the summertime. Engine oil, transmission fluid, and coolant can all leak, and each one can cause different issues.

If you're experiencing fluid leaks, it's best to take your vehicle to a mechanic. Most automotive service centers in Pagosa Springs, Colorado, help you identify the source of the leak, and they can make the necessary repairs.

Vehicle Cabin Interior

Truck and Car owners often complain about the intolerable heat inside the cabin. It can be frustrating when you're trying to enjoy a nice drive, and you can't even cool down your car's interior. It is difficult to escape the heat during the summer, but there are some things you can do to prevent your car from getting too hot.

To stay cool in your car, park in the shade whenever possible. If you have to park in the sun, use a sunshade to keep your car's interior from heating up. Ensure all the windows are closed and use the AC to cool down the cabin. With these tips, you'll be able to stay cool and comfortable in your car this summer.

In Conclusion

Summer can be a tough season on your vehicle, be it a car or truck, but you can avoid many common problems with proper maintenance and care. Be sure to check your tires, battery, and engine fluids regularly. If you have any issues, take your vehicle to a mechanic so they can diagnose and fix the problem. In Pagosa Springs, an auto repair shop, one like America's Auto & Tire. They are a one-stop solution for automotive services and an excellent place to start. With a little bit of prevention, you'll be able to enjoy a safe and comfortable summer season.