AAA offers tips for avoiding car troubles
WICHITA – AAA Kansas is expecting an increase in roadside assistance calls with the soaring temperatures and summer activities in full swing.
Car batteries will be tested by the extreme heat, and there will likely be an increase in tire troubles as well.
“Inevitably, these high temperatures will bring a wave of calls from motorists whose batteries fail,” said Shawn Steward, AAA Kansas spokesman. “And, in this heat, drivers and their passengers’ safety is at risk as well, so it is critical that everyone prepare accordingly.”
“Having your vehicle serviced by professionals who are trained to identify potential problems can help prevent heat-related breakdowns and often saves money on repairs,” Steward added. “The best way to keep a car in top shape is to have a trusted repair shop where you can go when it’s time for service.”
A professional and thorough vehicle inspection can proactively help reduce the chance of a serious breakdown. If a car does end up at a repair shop, not only will a vacation road trip or everyday transportation be interrupted, but drivers can expect to spend anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars to get back on the road.
Take the guesswork out of finding a trusted repair facility by trusting a local AAA Approved Auto Repair (AAR) facility. These shops must adhere to a stringent set of standards for certifications, technical training, cleanliness, insurance requirements, and customer service set forth by AAA.
Tips to avoid heat-related car troubles:
1. Get your battery tested and, if necessary, replace it BEFORE it dies
Most batteries last 3-5 years and each day of extreme weather pushes a battery closer to its end. AAA members can request a AAA Roadside Service technician to come to them and test their battery free of charge. Should the battery need replacement, the technician can usually replace it on location.
2. Make sure tires are properly inflated
Driving on under-inflated tires can cause tires to overheat and increase the likelihood of a blowout.
This problem becomes even more of a concern when road temperatures are extremely high.
For accurate results, tires should be checked at the beginning of travels before driving any great distance. They should be inflated to the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer – not the number molded into the tire sidewall.
Recommended tire pressures can be found in the owner’s manual or on a sticker normally located on the driver’s door jamb or the inside of the glove compartment door. Some vehicles use different pressures for the front and rear tires. While checking the tire pressures - including the spare - drivers also should inspect the tire treads for adequate depth and any signs of uneven wear that might indicate a suspension or alignment problem.
3. Check all fluids
When fluid levels are low, the possibility of overheating increases. Drivers should check all vehicle fluids including motor oil, transmission fluid, power steering fluid and brake fluid to ensure they are filled to the appropriate levels. If any fluids need to be topped off, be sure to use the type of fluid specified in the owner’s manual.
4. Have a roadside rescue plan to summon qualified help should it be needed
Check to make sure your AAA membership is active and suitable for the distance you plan to travel.
5. Stock a summer emergency kit
Even with proper preventive maintenance, summer breakdowns can still occur, so AAA recommends every driver have a fully charged cellphone on hand so they can call for help when needed and also keep a well-stocked emergency kit in their vehicle to ensure everyone’s safety while they’re waiting for help to arrive.
The emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food items, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, road flares or an emergency beacon, basic hand tools, and a first aid kit.
About AAA
AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to more than 62 million members nationwide and more than three hundred fifty thousand members in Kansas. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, membership corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can map a route, access a COVID travel restriction map, find local gas prices and electric vehicle charging stations, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the AAA Mobile app (AAA.com/mobile) for iPhone, iPad and Android. For more information on joining or renewing a Membership, visit www.AAA.com.