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Summer Heat Hard on Cars and Drivers, Reports AAA Michigan

23 June 1998

Summer Heat Hard on Cars and Drivers, Reports AAA Michigan

    DEARBORN, Mich., June 23 -- With outdoor temperatures
soaring, AAA Michigan reports a surge in Emergency Road Service (ERS) call
volumes statewide.  More than 3,700 motorists were assisted yesterday (June
22) with heat-related problems.  Normal call volumes average between 1,500 and
2,000 per day.
    Summer heat can be just as hard on cars as the fiercest winter weather.
To help prevent inconvenience and save wear and tear on your vehicle, AAA
Michigan offers the following hot weather car care tips:
    *  Check battery strength and condition of terminals.
    *  Examine tires for uneven or excessive tread wear.  Make sure all tires,
including the spare, are properly inflated.
    *  Check for worn or cracked belts and damaged, blistered or soft hoses.
    *  Inspect antifreeze/coolant level and condition, making sure the proper
50/50 mixture of water and coolant is present.
    *  Check motor oil level and condition.  If driving under extreme
conditions -- such as very hot temperatures or towing a heavy trailer --
switch to motor oil with a higher viscosity.  Check owner's manual for
specific recommendations.

    Summer weather can cause temperatures inside a parked vehicle to reach
levels that can be dangerous or even fatal (as high as 200 degrees),
especially to children and pets.   AAA Michigan recommends:
    *  Before entering a vehicle that has been parked in high temperatures,
open the vehicle's doors and let the interior cool for a few minutes.
    *  A sun shield can be used to cover the windshield to minimize heat
build-up and to help protect the car's interior.  Cover metal and plastic
parts on safety belts and child safety seats to prevent burns.  If possible,
park in the shade.
    *  Some motorists leave a window cracked to keep the vehicle cool.  This
may be appropriate in some circumstances, but it can also make your car "hot"
as the target of a car thief.
    *  A properly working air conditioner will help motorists keep their cool
this summer, but be sure to have the unit serviced by a qualified technician,
using the most current and appropriate refrigerant.