Few Tips To Prepare Your Volvo for Summer

While winter is hard on vehicles, summer has its own challenges, such as extreme temperatures and torrential downpours. Here are a few tips to make sure your Volvo will be ready for it all.

1. Check the Air Conditioning

A functioning air conditioning system is crucial for your comfort during hot weather. Test your AC before summer begins to ensure it's blowing cold air. If not, have it checked by our team of professionals to identify and fix any issues ahead of the warmer months.

2. Inspect the Cooling System

Warm temperatures put an added strain on the cooling system of your Volvo, which is why it is important to make sure it is in good condition. To do so, check the radiator, coolant levels, and hoses for leaks or wear. Top up the coolant if needed and consider a system flush if it hasn't been done in a while. Our service department can take care of all of these checks for you, giving you added peace of mind.

3. Examine the Tires

Tires with adequate tread and correct inflation are essential for safe summer driving. Check the tire pressure and adjust to the recommended PSI in your Volvo's owner's manual. Also, inspect the tread depth and look for any signs of wear or damage. Rotate your tires if needed. In addition to handling, tire pressure and condition also affect fuel consumption and wear patterns.

4. Test the Battery

Summer heat can be tough on car batteries. Have your battery tested to ensure it's holding a charge and inspect the terminals for corrosion. If it shows any sign of weakness or if it is getting old, you should consider replacing your battery to avoid unexpected breakdowns, especially ahead of a road trip.

5. Check the Brakes

Brakes are vital for safe driving in all seasons. Inspect the brake pads and rotors for wear, and listen for unusual noises when braking. If your brakes feel less responsive, have them checked by a professional. This is important to do after each winter since salt and abrasives can cause sensitive brake parts to rust and become less effective.

6. Check all of the fluids

Aside from coolant, other fluids like engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are critical for your Volvo's performance and safety. Spring and early summer is an ideal time to check the level and condition of all of these fluids. Depending on your Volvo’s year and model, you might not be able to check all of the fluids yourself, but our service department can ensure they are in good condition for you.

7. Inspect the Wiper Blades

Summer can bring sudden rain showers. Check your windshield wiper blades for wear and replace them if they're streaking or making noise. If you drive a Volvo SUV or wagon, don’t forger to also inspect the rear wiper to make sure you can see clearly out of the front and rear of your vehicle even in the worst weather conditions summer can bring.

8. Clean and Protect the Interior

Even if you are very careful, it is likely that some salt and grime has accumulated in the interior of your Volvo over the past winter. Now is a great time to give your vehicle a thorough clean to remove these contaminants and preserve the appearance of your carpets and upholstery. While Volvo uses high-quality materials that can easily resist years of harsh UV exposure, using a window sunshade can add a supplemental layer of protection while also keeping your interior much cooler after long hours in the sun.

9. Pack an Emergency Kit

An emergency kit is essential for summer road trips. Include items like a first aid kit, flashlight, jumper cables, basic tools, water, and non-perishable snacks. Also, consider a portable phone charger for emergencies, especially if your Volvo is not equipped with advanced connectivity features.

10. Plan for Long Trips

If you plan on taking road trips, ensure your Volvo is in top shape by following all of the previous tips. An easy way to do so is to schedule an appointment with our service department a few weeks prior to your departure since our technicians will be able to spot anything that could cause a problem down the road. If your Volvo is fully electric, it can also be a good idea to have a look at where charging stations are located along your route and close to your destination, especially if you will be driving in an unfamiliar area.

By following these tips, your Volvo will be well-prepared for summer driving, allowing you to enjoy the season without unexpected breakdowns or safety concerns.