Summer is all about having fun in the sun, and what gets you to that fun in the sun? Your Nissan of course! Lots of people make the misconception that because there isn’t snow on the ground you don’t have to service/take more care of your car! Well I have to be the bearer of bad news but that isn’t true, actually, you need to take just as much care of your vehicle, sometimes even more! The warmer months present some challenges to personal transportation from overheating to AC issues, and don’t forget about the tires! but don’t stress yet! I have a list that will help us all have a summer we can enjoy.

1. Coolant: keeping your vehicle cool is super important during the summer, not just for us but for your vehicle as well! Making sure the coolant level is correct is super important, this makes sure that your engine doesn’t overheat. Go the extra mile and check the state of the hoses and coolant reservoir, look for leaks or damage. If you find any make sure you get it fixed as soon as possible!

1. Engine Belts: There is usually a serpentine belt that runs between the alternator, the fan, and several other components. It can deteriorate, become loose, start to squeal, and sometimes just break for no apparent reason. It needs to be in good condition and at the right amount of tension. If you see cracks in the belt or small pieces missing, it’s time to replace the belt.

1. Wipers: With hot summer days, come those summer storms we love to watch…even if we don’t want to be stuck in the middle of them. Things happen though and when it does you want to make sure your wipers are working properly so you can stay safe through any type of weather.

1. Other Essential Fluids: Check oil, brake, power-steering and windshield-washer fluids regularly. These liquids never stop being used and consumed. Speaking of brake fluid, how do the brakes on your car feel in general? Are they lacking in a bit? Feeling a bit spongy? If so, new pads and a system bleed might be required.

1. Air-Conditioning System: A summer essential is your car’s AC! If the system isn’t working properly, check for leaks. If the AC is leaking when on that is not good, there are plenty of sealing products you can use to fix this issue. IF this doesn’t resolve the issue bring your car to a mechanic to be serviced.

1. Air Filter: The winter’s decomposing leaves may be clogging up drainage points, windshield-washer nozzles or your car’s air filter. Now might be a good time to buy a new one or take the current one out and give it a cleaning.

1. Tires: Tires really need to be checked all year long. Your tire pressure needs to be correct (check the owner’s manual) in order to work properly and not cause damage to your vehicle. And since summer is the time for road trips you want your tire to be in tip-top shape!

1. Dashboard Sunshade: For those times when you’re not driving, but the car is still out in the sun, a cover that goes in the windshield will protect the dashboard against ultraviolet rays and help the cabin stay a little cooler. Some even have solar panels to keep the battery charged.

1. Clean the Car: Now that the sun stays out longer you might catch yourself gazing at the orange orb hanging low in a pinky-blue sky, but if your windshield is dirty you could find this to very dangerous! Even from the inside, that haze will diffuse the light and make things hard to see. That grime has a tendency to build up over a long period, so we don’t really notice it. Things look much sharper after your car has had a good wash, though

1. Driver and Passengers: Prepare your car for road trips and adventures with passengers. If a scheduled service is coming up, think about getting it done before a long drive. It’s also wise to make sure your insurance and driving license are up to date. Have a great summer, enjoy the roads, and take care of yourself and your car. And in the case that you find yourself in an emergency make sure your car has an emergency flashlight and small tool kit!