Texas heat could cause car problems, experts warn. Here’s how to avoid a breakdown

The Texas heat can take a toll on everyone and everything, including your car.

AAA is warning motorists that vehicle breakdowns are likely this week as extreme temperatures continue in Dallas—Fort Worth.

“With so many people traveling for the holiday, we expect to rescue 41,000 motorists in Texas this week due to dead batteries, flat tires, and engine problems,” said AAA spokesperson Daniel Armbruster. “Hot weather can push a vehicle past its limits so it’s important to get summer maintenance checks to avoid further issues.”

Local mechanics say they’ve had a boost in customers with heat-related car issues since the first set of blazing temperatures occurred in June.

Be wary of battery and tire ‘warning signs’

“We’ve been seeing battery failures, flat tires, and lots of issues with the AC, ”said Robert Davis with Trowell and Turner Automotive , who’s been serving the DFW area for more than 50 years. “All kinds of things break when it gets hot, so it’s important to not ignore the warning signs,” he said.

Pretty much everything in a vehicle has to work a little harder in the heat because circulation is reduced and fluids evaporate, according to AAA. Here’s how to avoid heat-related vehicle breakdowns

Inspect your battery

Severe heat can interfere with the chemical process of your car battery and make it more difficult to maintain a charge and provide enough power. You should get your battery tested twice a year to ensure it has enough life. Car batteries that are fully charged should have a voltage reading of 12.6 volts or higher. Replace your battery as soon as possible if it is becoming low.

Check tire pressure and condition

Whenever your vehicle is resting, check the tire pressure and tire wear. Underinflated tires have a higher chance of blowouts because they might overheat while being driven. For every 10°C change in temperature, tires lose or gain 1 PSI (pound per square inch). Consider switching to new tires if the current ones appear bald or uneven.

Update engine cooling system

Extreme heat can stop fuel from circulating in your engine and cause your car not to start. The radiator and other engine parts are shielded by coolant, which should be replaced when low because it prevents the car from overheating. The rubber cooling system can also deteriorate in the heat. Drivers should look for cracks and other indications of poor condition in their drive belts and hoses.

Change your oil

The heat produced by your car’s engine can cause the oil to slightly thin when it’s running hot in the summer. As a result, there may be more friction and a chance of engine damage since some engine components may not receive the necessary protection. Drivers should replace their car’s oil right before summer. Multi-viscosity oils, like 5W-20, are designed to function over a broader temperature range.

Replace fluids

Fluids provide the dual functions of coolant and lubricant by diverting heat from the engine. Make sure all of your car’s fluids—such as the motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and engine/radiator coolant—are filled to the proper amounts.