In order to run smoothly, your vehicle’s engine is dependent upon countless moving parts and fluids. Just like the components in your engine, vehicle fluids need to be tended to regularly in order to ensure they’re in good working order and can perform their particular functions at a high level.
  
With that in mind, here are three fluids you might consider having checked and potentially flushed this month as you hit the road here in Alabama:
  
Antifreeze/Coolant. This invaluable fluid can appear to be in good shape for a significant amount of time as it typically maintains the same bright green hue it had when it was first installed for a while. Worn out or contaminated antifreeze/coolant can lurk at the bottom of your system though, and when this older fluid courses through your engine it can cause costly corrosive damage.
  
Motor Oil. As a rule of thumb, you should have your oil changed every 3,000 miles or so but it’s not a bad idea to have a mechanic check your levels and consistency before hitting this deadline. If you go beyond the 3,000-mile threshold without getting an oil change done, the oil in your vehicle will thicken and become unable to properly lubricate your engine which will lead to major problems.
  
Transmission Fluid. If your vehicle’s transmission fluid is red-clear in color, it’s most likely in good shape. If it’s a darker shade of red, your transmission could be in trouble. Your transmission fluid should typically be changed out every 20,000 miles or so, but you should monitor its coloration closely to see if this should be done sooner.
  
While they might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about your vehicle’s health, its fluids are vital to your engine’s ability to properly run. By staying on top of your fluids’ flush and top-off schedules, you’ll be preventing damage to key engine components and avoiding any potential breakdowns. Be sure to call Melton Automotive at 205-663-6088 to set up a preventative maintenance plan for your vehicle that includes all mechanical fluids!

It’s May which means summer is right around the corner and with that comes more heat for your vehicle’s various components to deal with – including your battery.
  
Higher temperatures may help out with your battery’s capacity, making turning the engine over easier, the extra heat can also expediate the deterioration process for your battery as its current conduction grids will erode at a quicker rate which reduces the unit’s lifespan.
  
The rate of “sulfation” – the build-up of lead sulfate crystals – is also increased with higher temperatures. When your battery becomes sulfated, its charging power is affected and its cranking power is reduced.
  
Here are a few tips to avoid battery problems this summer:
  
Go Premium. Using a high-quality batter such as an Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) will cut down on the risk of sulfation or other issues such as parasitic drain.
  
Keep it Cool. By simply parking or storing your vehicle in a temperate location such as a garage, the life of your battery can be extended significantly.
  
Stay Active. An inactive battery will be more susceptible to parasitic drains so be sure to start your engine regularly and keep the juices flowing.
  
Power Electronics Down. Electronics are the main cause of battery drainage so make sure that your electronics are properly shut down when you exit your vehicle.
  
Charge! Batteries need to be charged properly in order to ensure they’ll sustain themselves for the length of their expected lifespan so be cognizant of your unit’s charge level and add some juice if need-be.
  
Your vehicle’s battery is critical to its health so be sure to follow the above suggestions this summer to keep your car running optimally. Give our ASE-certified technicians a call at 205-663-6088 if you have any further questions or if you’d like to schedule an appointment!
  
  

Whether you’re about to head up to the mountains, on a lengthy road trip vacation or just around the corner for some ice cream, driving in the summertime can present a set of unique challenges for your vehicle. Intense sunlight, oppressive heat, etc. can take its toll on your car, meaning the more on top of your maintenance you are the better prepared you’ll be to handle whatever challenges you might face while cruising around in Alabama this summer.


Here are three easy ways to help maintain your car this summer driving season under these conditions.


Bring your car into Melton Automotive for an inspection
Certain parts and systems of your car take just a little more maintenance during the summer than what is normally required throughout the rest of the year. Bringing your car in to have it checked out by an ASE-certified technician is extremely important.


Your battery in particular can be affected as fluid inside the battery can evaporate, eventually causing it to stop working altogether. It’s important that you get your battery testes as part of your summer maintenance checkup.


The cooling system is also susceptible to summertime wear. Having a mechanic take a look at the hoses and seals for cracks and wear and tear are critical. Furthermore, you may want to a cooling system flush performed and your fluids changed out.


Pay attention to and maintain your tires
Over the course of a hot summer, your tires endure a fair amount of wear and tear. While this may decrease the lifetime of a tire in the long-term, it can also put you or your loved ones at risk for a tire blowout on the road in the short-term.


It’s important to have your tires rotated and to have a mechanic check for indications of unusual wear and tear, especially with increased driving during the summer months in warmer temperatures than normal.


In addition, hot weather can cause the pressure in your tires to increase. Check your tire pressure periodically, ensuring that it’s filled correctly and according to the manufacturer’s technical specifications.


Don’t forget about the exterior
The summer heat and sun can also take its toll on the exterior of your car as well. Regular washing of your vehicle will remove unsightly bird droppings, unwanted tree sap, etc. and help protect the paint of the car.


Of higher importance is your windshield wipers and their condition. Rain storms during this time of year can be particularly violent and it’s critical to have your wipers in good condition.


Keeping these maintenance tips in mind will not only help you enjoy your summer months, but keep your car in proper shape for the rest of the year as well!