How to Avoid a Car Breakdown this Summer in Paradise, NV; Test Battery, Inspect Tires & More

During the hot summer months here in Las Vegas and throughout southern Nevada the worst experience is to breakdown or have a flat tire. Changing a tire on the scorching roadside is a terrible experience for anybody and unfortunately, flats, blowouts and breakdowns occur more often in the summertime due to the heat. The heat of the summer can drain batteries, weaken tires and overheat the engine. Know that we are entering the height of our summer season. Non Stop Towing will share what you can do to prevent breakdowns this summer.

Car Battery Voltage Test

During the summer one of the most common cause of breakdowns are dead batteries. The summer heat can take its toll on the battery and drain them faster. Depending on the quality of the battery some batteries will last anywhere from 1 to 5 years. However, due to our heat, the life of the battery can be shortened. One way to know the condition of your battery is by having the battery charge tested. You can go to an auto store that provides battery testing or get your own battery tester and make sure during the summer to test your battery. Additionally check the connections and terminals of the battery as often the heat leads to corrosion. If the terminals and connections have that green and white build up, have the terminals cleaned.

Tire Tread & Pressure Inspection

Another common cause for a breakdown is a flat or blown out tire. The faster you drive the more heat is created inside the tire. Combine that with a hot road and tires will often blow out or crack and have a slow leak. During the hot summer months you will want to monitor your tire’s pressure and the condition of the tread. Make sure to check the tire pressure every few weeks and never neglect low pressure. Make sure to add air when needed. Next inspect your tires tread. You can use a penny for this test. Flip the penny upside down and if the tread is lower than Lincoln’s head, your tread is too low. Once the tread is to low you will want to replace the tires.

Car Fluid Check

An automobile uses a number of fluids to operate correctly. It is important to monitor your fluid levels, especially during the summer. Make sure to check these major fluids.
Oil – A vehicle should have its oil changed every 5,000 to 7,000 miles. Synthetic oil can go 10,000 between changes. However, make sure your vehicle isn’t leaking oil. Make sure to check the oil and that it is in proper levels.
Coolant – The coolant or anti-freeze helps to remove the heat from the engine and prevent overheating. Make sure the coolant is checked. Coolant can age and should be changed every 60,000 to 150,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid – Transmissions should never run out or go low unless there is a leak. You can check you transmission fluid and make sure the fluid is red. If the transmission fluid is not red it is probably really old and needs to be changed. Transmission fluid should be changed every 60,000 to 150,000 miles.

Towing & Roadside Emergency Services in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Sunrise Manor, Spring Valley, Aliante, Anthem, Desert Shores, Eldorado, Green Valley Ranch, Inspirada, Mountain’s Edge, Peccole Ranch, Providence, Rhodes Ranch, Seven Hills, Silverado Ranch, The Lakes, Tuscany Village & Las Vegas, Nevada

Always be prepared for a breakdown. Make sure to keep plenty of water in the vehicle, a phone charger, and an emergency kit always helps. If you find you need roadside assistance service or towing, contact Non Stop Towing today.

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