VTH : 10 Essential Summer Car Maintenance Tips

As the temperatures rise and summer road trips approach, your vehicle needs to be in peak condition to handle the heat. Summer heat can stress your car’s internal systems—especially if it hasn’t been checked since winter. Use this guide to prepare your car for warm-weather driving and prevent unexpected breakdowns.

Monitor Fluid Levels
Check Tire Pressure & Tread
Service Your AC System
Inspect and Clean Your Battery
Replace Worn Wiper Blades
Examine Your Brakes
Change the Oil & Filters
Top Off Windshield Washer Fluid
Wax & Protect the Exterior
Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF)

Bonus: Need to Ship Your Vehicle This Summer?

1. Monitor Fluid Levels

Hot weather can cause fluids to evaporate or break down faster than usual. Make sure the coolant (antifreeze) is at the proper level and in good condition. Low coolant can lead to overheating, which may severely damage the engine. Don’t forget to check transmission fluid, brake fluid, and power steering fluid, too.

Pro Tip: If you’re frequently refilling coolant, it might indicate a leak—have your system inspected by a professional.

2. Check Tire Pressure & Tread

Temperature changes impact tire pressure. Underinflated or worn tires reduce fuel efficiency and increase the risk of blowouts, especially in summer heat. Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended PSI (usually 30–35 PSI, check your door jamb sticker or owner’s manual) and examine the tread depth using a penny or tread gauge.

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to check your spare tire!

3. Service Your AC System

A working air conditioner isn’t just about comfort—it’s a necessity in extreme heat. Before summer hits full swing, test your AC system to ensure it cools properly. If airflow is weak or temperatures aren’t dropping, schedule a recharge or diagnostic service.

4. Inspect and Clean Your Battery

Heat speeds up battery fluid evaporation, which can cause corrosion and reduce battery life. Check the terminals for rust or buildup and ensure the battery is secure. If your battery is more than 3 years old, consider having it tested before a long trip.

5. Replace Worn Wiper Blades

Winter grime, salt, and ice can degrade your wiper blades. In summer, sudden rainstorms demand optimal visibility. Replace blades that streak, skip, or squeak—it's an inexpensive fix that makes a big difference.

6. Examine Your Brakes

Summer often brings more driving—vacations, road trips, and weekend getaways. Listen for squealing or grinding noises and note any vibrations or soft pedal feel. If anything feels off, have a technician inspect the pads, rotors, and brake fluid.

7. Change the Oil & Filters

Extreme heat affects your engine oil’s viscosity and performance. Make sure your oil is clean and at the proper level. While you're at it, consider changing your air filter and cabin filter for optimal engine efficiency and cabin air quality.

8. Top Off Windshield Washer Fluid

Bugs, dust, and debris are common in the summer. Keeping your windshield clean ensures visibility. Make sure your washer reservoir is full with a summer blend, which helps dissolve bug splatter better than winter formulas.

9. Wax & Protect the Exterior

Waxing your car protects the paint from UV rays, road grime, and pollen buildup. A good coat of wax repels water, reduces sun damage, and gives your car that fresh, shiny look. Want more protection? Consider applying a ceramic coating.

10. Consider Paint Protection Film (PPF)

For high-value, classic, or new vehicles, PPF is a smart investment. This transparent film guards against scratches, rock chips, bugs, and sun damage. It’s commonly applied to hoods, bumpers, side mirrors, or full-body for luxury models. Though it may yellow after 10 years, it’s removable and preserves your original paint.

Bonus: Need to Ship Your Vehicle This Summer?

Planning a cross-country move, extended vacation, or sending a car to a student? Let Vehicle Transport Hub handle the logistics. We connect you with fully insured, vetted auto carriers across the U.S.—making it simple to compare instant quotes, customer reviews, and insurance details all in one place.