As temperatures rise in Louisiana, mechanics are reminding drivers to take care of their vehicles to prevent costly repairs. Dax Ulrich, shop foreman at Southern Automotive Service in Shreveport, said one of the biggest concerns during the summer is keeping a vehicle’s cooling system in good working order to prevent the engine from overheating.
Preventing Overheating
Ulrich recommends having the cooling system flushed and changed every five years. He also advises against using over-the-counter air conditioning recharge kits, as they can cause problems for mechanics. Additionally, Ulrich suggests cracking a window slightly when parked and using a reflective windshield sunshade to help lower interior temperatures and reduce heat buildup on the dashboard.
Drivers should also be aware of the risks of heat-related brake problems, although experts say these are generally limited to vehicles driven for extended periods in mountainous or hilly terrain. Ulrich also encourages drivers to have their batteries checked regularly, as high temperatures can shorten battery life and lead to unexpected failures.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
