Russell&Smith Mazda Has The Cure For The Summertime Blues

Old man winter is almost gone and the sun rays are breaking through the clouds, which means it is time to open the garage and wake the summer car from its hibernation. The service team at Russell and Smith Mazda have put together some tips that can save any driver time, money, and aggravation this summer.

The obvious first step is checking the tire pressure. Seasonal temperature changes affect tire pressures. Poor tire inflation affects ride quality and gas mileage; remember that an over-inflated tire is just as potentially harmful as an under-inflated tire. Don’t forget to inflate the spare tire and check that the roadside tools (jack, lug-wrench, and wheel lock if necessary) are working properly.

Next make sure all of the fluids are topped off including radiator coolant, motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and wiper fluid. Pay close attention to the HOT and COLD level indicators and only fill to the correct line. Overfilling fluids is wasteful and could lead to premature malfunctions

Check that the battery is completely charged and the terminals are free of corrosion. The heat will drain a car battery in no time and summertime humidity will accelerate build-up on the battery terminals.

People often ignore shoddy windshield wipers until it is to late and they are in an unsafe driving condition. There should be no cracks and the steel clips should be clear of the glass surface. A new set of wiper blades can be had for $20 and can really take the stress out of summer driving.

Once that is all complete check the serpentine belts for cracks and tightness. A cyclical squeaking noise is the first warning sign of imminent belt failure. This belt typically runs the A/C compressor, alternator, and water pump so keeping a close watch on it can be the difference between a good running car and catastophe.

If you don't want to do your own pre trip inspection bring your car to Russell&Smith Mazda's Service Department. Get your vehicle serviced by the pros. Using OEM parts in a professional shop staffed with factory certified technicians, Russell&Smith Mazda can provide a fun and problem-free summer road trip. There are many potential headaches involved with summer driving, but with proper maintainance car trouble doesn't have to be one of them.