The heat of the summer months can play havoc on a vehicle. The increased demand on the cooling system is enough to potentially cause a vehicle long hours out of operation. Proper advance planning can help operators assure themselves that their vehicles will be able to run properly all summer long.

Use this checklist to make sure that your vehicles are ready for summer.

Cooling System

• Check cooling fan – works properly, not obstructed

• Check condenser - not obstructed

• Check radiator – proper fluid levels, proper mix of antifreeze, no leaks, no obstructions

• Flush and refill radiator

• Radiator overflow container – proper level

Tires

• Proper pressure – maintain proper pressure as specified by manufacturer (check regularly)

• Balance and alignment – tires are properly balanced and aligned (do at start of summer)

• Rotation – tires are properly rotated (approximately every 6,000 miles)

• Proper tread depth – replace tires with 1/16 of an inch or less of tread depth

• Clean tires – prevents cracking and unnatural aging.

Oil

• Proper levels and changed per manufacturer’s specifications

Battery (both batteries)

• Properly charged – test to see if battery has sufficient charge

• Battery fluid levels – make sure ALL fluid levels are even and full

• Battery terminals – cleaned and make proper contact with cables

• Battery cables – intact, no cracks  

Alternator

• Working properly

• Belts – worn belts should be replaced

Brakes

• Master cylinder – proper fluid levels, no leaks

• Brake lines – no leaks

Hoses & Belts

• Belts – not worn, no cracks

Use this checklist and maintain proper regular service, and your vehicle should last you for a long time.