5 Myths About Car Care In The Hot Season

During the summer, when outdoor temperatures increase, car care and maintenance become extremely important to ensure the vehicle's safety and operating efficiency. Prolonged hot environments can cause many problems for car systems and components, such as overloading the cooling system, damaging the battery, or affecting the durability of the tires.

Therefore, drivers need to take appropriate car care and maintenance measures to cope with the challenges of summer. Car care measures in the hot season include periodic inspection and maintenance of the cooling system, handling engine overheating, maintenance and inspection of batteries and tires, as well as cleaning and maintenance. maintenance on the outside of the vehicle. Implementing these measures properly and regularly will help your car operate safely and efficiently, while also prolonging the vehicle's lifespan in harsh weather conditions.

Refuel in the sun or right after a long drive

Misconception: Many people believe that pouring gas while the car is hot can cause a fire or explosion.

Truth: This is an incorrect concept. Modern gas stations are designed with strict safety measures to prevent fires and explosions. According to data from the International Petroleum Association (IPIA), the rate of fire and explosion at gas stations is only about 0.0001% of the total number of refueling times.

Solution: You can safely refuel at any time, as long as the engine is turned off. However, to optimize fuel efficiency, you should refuel in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower, helping to reduce gasoline evaporation.

Wash your car immediately after a long drive

Misconception: Many people think that pouring cold water on a hot car will help cool the engine quickly.

Fact: Sudden changes in temperature can cause damage to the vehicle's metal parts. Research from the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) shows that temperature differences greater than 100°C can cause microcracks on metal surfaces.

Solution:

• Let the car cool in the air for about 15-20 minutes before washing.
• Use warm water to wash your car, minimizing temperature differences.
• Avoid spraying water directly on the engine or electronic components.

Turn on the air conditioner fully immediately after starting it

Misconception: Many people turn on the air conditioner at maximum capacity as soon as they get into the car to cool it as quickly as possible.

Fact: This can put a lot of pressure on the vehicle's electrical system and engine, especially when the engine is running at low rpm. According to research by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), this can increase fuel consumption by up to 20% in the first few minutes.

Solution:

• Lower the window and turn on the fan to blow away the heat for the first 1-2 minutes.
• Turn on the air conditioner at medium level, then gradually increase power.
• Use internal air circulation mode to increase cooling efficiency.

Regularly change oil and coolant during hot seasons

Misconception: Oil and coolant changes need to be made more frequently during hot seasons to protect the engine.

Fact: Modern engine oils and coolants are designed to operate effectively in a wide range of temperature conditions. According to recommendations of the International Lubricants Association (ILMA), changing oil too early does not bring significant benefits and can be wasteful.

Solution:

• Follow the maintenance schedule as recommended by the manufacturer.
• Check oil and coolant levels regularly, especially before long trips.
• Use engine oil and coolant with viscosity and quality suitable for weather conditions.

Use a larger battery during the summer

Misconception: A larger battery will provide enough power for the air conditioning system to operate at full capacity.

Truth: Once the engine is started, the responsibility of providing power mainly belongs to the generator. According to the Battery Association International (BCI), using a battery that is too large for the vehicle's design can cause electrical system problems.

Solution:

• Use batteries that comply with the manufacturer's specifications.
• Regularly maintain the battery, check the electrolyte level and cleanliness of the battery terminals.
• In case you need to replace the battery, choose one with a CCA (Cold Cranking Amps) rating suitable for hot climates.

Car care during the hot season requires proper understanding and practice. By following the manufacturer's recommendations and taking appropriate measures, you can effectively protect your vehicle, while saving on unnecessary maintenance costs. Remember, regular maintenance and regular inspections are key to maintaining optimal vehicle performance in all weather conditions.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. What is the safest highest temperature for a car engine?

The maximum safe temperature for a car engine is usually in the range of 90-105°C. Most modern cars have a warning system when the temperature exceeds 120°C.

2. How to quickly reduce the temperature in the car when parked in the sun?

Open all car doors for 30 seconds to escape hot air, then turn on the air conditioner to "Max A/C" mode and select the interior air circulation mode. The temperature in the car can decrease by 10-15°C within 3-5 minutes.

3. How often should tire pressure be checked during the hot season?

You should check tire pressure at least every 2 weeks during the hot season. A 10°C increase in temperature can increase tire pressure by approximately 1-2 PSI.

4. Is it necessary to change engine oil more often during the hot season?

Unnecessary. Following the manufacturer's maintenance schedule is sufficient. Modern engine oils can maintain good performance for about 7.500-10.000 km, even in high temperature conditions.

5. How to protect car interior from UV rays during the sunny season?

Use windshield sunshades, window tinting films (which block 99% of UV rays), and specialized interior protection sprays. These measures can reduce vehicle interior temperatures by up to 20°C. Read the article now: Tips to protect car interior during hot weather The safest and most effective products are shared on the website.

6. What type of cooling water should be used during the hot season?

Use coolant with a high boiling point (above 120°C) and containing anti-corrosion agents. A 50/50 (50% coolant, 50% distilled water) type is often recommended, which can withstand temperatures up to 129°C.

7. How to recognize if the cooling system is having problems?

Signs include: temperature gauge exceeding the red line, steam from the bonnet, strange sweet smell in the cockpit. If the engine temperature suddenly increases above 10°C, it should be checked immediately. You can consult Cooling system testing method Fast and effective, shared by many experts.

8. How to protect the battery from high temperatures?

Keep the battery clean, check the electrolyte level once a month, make sure the battery terminals are not corroded. High temperatures can reduce battery life by up to 1%.

9. Is it necessary to change the air filter more often during dusty and hot seasons?

The air filter should be checked every 5.000-8.000 km during hot and dusty seasons. A dirty air filter can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. See more of these Note: replace/maintain car air filter fastest and most effective.

10. How to protect car paint from the harmful effects of harsh sunlight?

Wash the car regularly (1-2 times/week), polish and wax every 3 months. Using carnauba wax can protect the paint from UV rays for up to 8 weeks.

11. Should engine coolant additives be used during the hot season?

Not necessary if the correct type and ratio of coolant is used. Additives are only necessary when the vehicle is old (over 100.000 km) or frequently operates in harsh conditions.

12. How to reduce fuel consumption during the hot season?

Maintain proper tire pressure, avoid carrying unnecessary cargo, and use air conditioning at a moderate level (23-25°C). These measures can help save 5-10% fuel.