How Summer Heat Affects Your Vehicle and What to Do About It
Sunny skies and warm California weather are perfect for beach days and weekend road trips—but for your car, intense summer heat can be a hidden hazard. We want Fullerton drivers to stay safe and cool on the road this season. Here’s how high temperatures affect your vehicle—and what you can do to prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.
Battery Trouble in the Heat
While many people associate battery issues with winter, extreme heat can also be hard on your battery. High temperatures can accelerate corrosion and cause battery fluid to evaporate, shortening the lifespan.
What to do:
Have your battery tested during your next service. We’ll check for signs of wear, corrosion, and weak charge so you are not stranded on a hot day.
Strain on Your A/C System
Your air conditioner works overtime in the summer. If it’s blowing warm air, making strange noises, or taking too long to cool the cabin, it’s likely time for an inspection.
What to do:
Schedule an A/C system check. Our technicians will test refrigerant levels, inspect belts and compressor components, and recharge your system if needed, so you stay cool and comfortable on every drive.
Overheating Engines
An overheating engine can bring your drive to a quick (and stressful) stop. Heat makes your engine work harder, especially if coolant levels are low or the system is leaking.
What to do:
We will inspect your cooling system, radiator, hoses, and coolant levels to ensure your engine stays cool, even in traffic or on long trips.
Tire Pressure Fluctuations
Tire pressure increases with heat, and under- or over-inflated tires can lead to your TPMS light turning on and uneven tire wear. Summer driving often means more miles, more weight, and hotter roads.
What to do:
We will check your tire pressure, tread depth, and look for any notable damage. Need a rotation or alignment? We’ve got that covered too.
Worn Belts & Hoses
Rubber components like belts and hoses can crack and degrade faster in the heat. If one fails while driving, it can lead to breakdowns or engine damage.
What to do:
We will inspect these key components for wear, bulges, or leaks. Replacing a belt now is much easier than waiting for it to snap later.
Hybrid and EV Care
Hot weather impacts hybrids and electric vehicles, too. Battery cooling systems should be in top shape, and high-voltage components require regular inspection.
What to do:
Bring your hybrid or EV for a specialized summer inspection, including system diagnostics, battery health checks, and cooling performance.
Beat the Heat with a Summer Vehicle Checkup
Don’t wait until your dashboard lights up or your A/C quits on a 90-degree day. At Fisk Automotive, we’ll get your vehicle summer-ready with a full inspection tailored to California’s warm climate. Locally owned and operated since 1973, we’re proud to be your trusted auto service team in the heart of Orange County. Whether planning a getaway or just want peace of mind during your commute, Fisk Automotive is here to help.
Call us or
book your appointment online and make sure your vehicle is ready to handle the summer heat.
