The state of Arizona is known for many things, from the friendliness of its people to its wide open spaces. But the state you call home is also known for its oppressive summer heat, with weeks on end of triple-digit temperatures and no relief in sight.
That extreme summer heat is bad for your body, but it can be just as damaging to your vehicle. No vehicle is designed to operate in such extreme temperature conditions, so you need to be extra careful when the mercury starts to rise. Here are some smart tips for keeping your cool in the heat of an Arizona summer.
Have Your Coolant Changed Every Year
For residents of cooler climates, coolant changes can be infrequent, but you do not have that luxury. You live in a hot climate, and you need to make sure your coolant is up to the task.
You should have your coolant flushed and filled every year, preferably before the hottest days of the Arizona summer arrive. Be sure to use the best coolant you can find – coolant designed for use in extremely hot weather.
Use the AC Sparingly
In the Arizona heat, running the air conditioner is a way of life, but using the AC too much could cause your car to overheat, especially if you are idling for long periods of time. Use the AC sparingly when the mercury rises, and keep a close eye on your temperature gauge as you drive.
If your car starts to get too hot, pull over to the side of the road, find a safe place to park and let the vehicle cool down. Driving with an overheating engine can cause severe damage, and you do not want to risk it.
Let Your Car Cool Down Between Trips
The wide-open nature of the Flagstaff area can make running errands difficult, but it is important to give your car time to cool off between trips. If you are running a quick errand to the store, hang out for a few extra minutes and give your engine time to cool down. Better yet, look for a central place to park and walk from store to store – you might get a bit overheated, but your car will stay cool.
You should also avoid excessive idling in the hot Flagstaff summer, so look for wide open roadways and stay away from congested areas. Paying attention to your surroundings and planning your trips accordingly can help you stay cool no matter how hot the weather gets.
