MEMPHIS, Tenn., July 24, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Just because you are taking the family on a summer vacation doesn't mean it's OK to take a vacation from your routine car maintenance. Follow these simple tips from AutoZone (NYSE:AZO) to help keep your car on the road this summer!
Inspect your battery
Winter weather often gets the blame for battery failure, but it's the summer heat that does the most damage! If corrosion is present, clean it with a mixture of baking soda and water, and put on a set of battery washers. You'll also want to have the battery tested; your local AutoZone can test it for free.
Check the coolant level and inspect the radiator cap
Wait until the engine is cool before unscrewing the radiator cap. If the rubber gasket inside the cap is cracked or brittle, replace the cap. Top off the coolant at the overflow reservoir, not at the radiator. If your antifreeze is more than a couple of years old, play it safe and flush and fill your cooling system.
Inspect your radiator hoses
Make sure hose clamps are tight, and check the ends for cracks or corrosion. Because extreme heat can cause leaks and other damage, keep an eye out for hard, blistered or spongy hoses. If any of these warning signs are present, replace the hoses immediately.
Inspect your fan belts
A worn or loose belt can cause the engine to overheat. Replace your belts if they need it!
Test your starting and charging system
Excessive underhood temperatures can also short-circuit your car's starter and alternator. That's why it's a great idea to take your car to AutoZone for a starting and charging system test. It can help you spot potential problems with your starter, alternator and battery before you get stranded on the road!
Get better gas mileage AND better performance from your engine
Rough idle, engine hesitation and declining fuel economy are often due to fuel system deposits. Adding a fuel system cleaner to your gas tank after every oil change (every three months or 3,000 miles) will fix the problem.
About AutoZone:
As of May 5, 2007, AutoZone sells auto and light truck parts, chemicals and accessories through 3,881 AutoZone stores in the United States and 110 AutoZone stores in Mexico and also sells the ALLDATA brand automotive diagnostic and repair software. On the web, AutoZone sells diagnostic and repair information and auto and light truck parts through www.autozone.com.