There are several very simple precautions you should take before hitting the road this summer. These summer car care tips can keep your family safe and ultimately save you money at the gas pump. We tend to forget that long drives and extreme heat can be tough on cars. No one wants to deal with under inflated tires, dirty filters, cracked hoses or leaky radiators. However, these can all lead to poor gas mileage and breakdowns.

To help avoid car issues and potential breakdowns, follow the below summer car care tips:

• Tires experience added stress in the summer due to high temperatures. You should check tire pressure periodically through the summer to ensure proper inflation.
• Check the hoses and drive belts for cracks and bulges
• Use a hose to keep your radiator clean by rinsing off dirt, debris and bugs
• A pressure test, thermostat and cooling fan test and visual inspection for leaks and corrosion should be done annually before the summer months
• Don’t forget to keep your car clean inside and out! You should wash your vehicle weekly to protect the paint and wax a minimum of twice a year.

Being prepared is the best way to protect your car from the hot summer temperatures. These summer car care tips will help your vehicle perform its best this year. Not only does a well cared for car last longer, it maintains more of its value.

Many of us wait a little too long between oil changes. Some of us don’t immediately head to the repair shop when our check engine light comes on. Safety experts say one area we should never neglect is tires.

Tire maintenance is often neglected by drivers. However, tire maintenance is a very important safety function and ignoring it can be dangerous. Below are four important tire safety tips to implement into your car maintenance routine.