SHREVEPORT, La. - As temperatures climb and summer travel ramps up, automotive experts are reminding drivers that extreme heat can be just as damaging to vehicles as winter weather.
Many motorists associate vehicle maintenance concerns with cold temperatures, but high heat can create serious problems under the hood, especially when it comes to a car's battery.
"You want to make sure your battery is in good shape," said Mike Antee of Moore's Tire and Service Center.
According to Antee, prolonged exposure to extreme heat can shorten a battery's lifespan and lead to unexpected failures.
"We see it all the time. The typical life span averages about three years," he said.
Unlike some vehicle issues that develop gradually, battery failure can happen with little warning. A battery that appears healthy one day can struggle to start an engine the next.
A sluggish engine start is one of the most common warning signs that a battery may be nearing the end of its life. Antee said drivers should also pay attention to unusual electrical issues.
"Sometimes you may notice something odd about your radio. It loses all of the stations," he said. "Whenever a battery gets weak, it takes all the energy and other modules go offline."
Antee recommends having a vehicle's battery checked regularly, especially before taking a long summer road trip.
The heat can also put additional stress on tires. Drivers are encouraged to routinely check tire pressure and inspect tire condition before heading out on the road.
"And, tread depth, because we are coming into the hot weather and those tires are really going to be tested," Antee said.
And in the ArkLaTex, where high temperatures are often accompanied by high humidity, a properly functioning air conditioning system is more than a comfort issue.
"Air condition systems ought to be checked and maintained proper pressures and proper airflow from the condenser to the radiator," Antee said.
Experts say preventative maintenance can help drivers avoid costly repairs and roadside breakdowns during the hottest months of the year. Along with checking batteries, tires and air conditioning systems, motorists should ensure coolant levels and other critical vehicle systems are ready for the summer heat.
With road trip season underway, a quick inspection now could help keep travelers safely on the road all summer long.
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