When the sun is shining, the roads are dry, and vacation vibes are in full swing, it’s easy to overlook what’s happening under your hood. But summer heat and long road trips can strain your vehicle just as much, if not more, than winter conditions.
As a veteran in the towing industry here in Waterloo Region, I can tell you firsthand: the number of breakdowns we respond to spikes during the summer months, not winter. The culprits? Overheating engines, tire blowouts, and battery failures are all preventable with regular maintenance.
Let’s dive right in.
Key Vehicle Maintenance Areas Before Summer Travel
1. Tire Health: The First Line of Safety
Why it matters: Tires expand in heat, and if they’re already worn or improperly inflated, they’re prone to blowouts.
- Check pressure monthly using a tire gauge.
- Look for visible wear or cracks.
- Rotate your tires every 5,000–8,000 km.
2. Battery Testing: Heat Can Drain It Faster Than Cold
Why it matters: Heat accelerates chemical reactions inside your battery, leading to internal breakdown faster than most drivers expect.
- Get your battery tested every 12 months, especially before long trips.
- Check for corrosion on terminals.
- Replace if it’s more than 3 years old.
A quick jumpstart may not always fix the problem. In summer, dead batteries are often total failures, requiring towing.
3. Coolant & Engine Temperature: Don’t Let It Boil Over
Why it matters: Your cooling system prevents engine overheating. On long drives through Kitchener traffic or Cambridge detours, engines get hot, fast.
- Check the coolant level and top up with the right antifreeze mixture.
- Inspect radiator hoses for leaks or cracks.
- Have a pro flush your coolant system every 2 years.
4. Brakes: Hot Roads = More Friction
Why it matters: Brake fluid and pads degrade quickly in high temperatures and under heavier use.
- Listen for grinding or squealing sounds.
- Inspect brake pads every 20,000 km.
- Top up brake fluid and check for leaks.
5. Air Conditioning: It’s Not Just About Comfort
Why it matters: Besides comfort, working AC helps prevent driver fatigue, a common cause of summer accidents.
- Check refrigerant levels.
- Ensure cabin filters are clean.
- Listen for odd smells or noises from vents.
Summer Travel Checklist for Smart Car Owners
Before hitting the road for a weekend at Grand Bend or a day trip around Waterloo Region, check:
- Tire Pressure
- Battery Strength
- Coolant Level
- Oil and Filter
- AC Operation
- Windshield Washer Fluid
- Emergency Kit (jumper cables, flashlight, water, phone charger)
Save our contact too, just in case:
WR Towing: +1 519 861 1211
Website: www.wrtowing.ca
When You Still Need Help: WR Towing Has Your Back
Despite your best efforts, things can still go wrong. That’s where we come in.
WR Towing provides:
- 24-Hour Emergency Towing
- Flat Tire Repair or Replacement
- Flatbed Towing for Low-Riding or High-End Vehicles
- Heavy-Duty Towing for Trucks or Commercial Vehicles
- Junk Car Removal
- Local Roadside Assistance Across Waterloo Region
Need more on what to do when stuck?
Read our guide: Stuck on the Side of the Road? How WR Towing Saves Your Summer in Waterloo Region