LAS VEGAS (KTNV) – In such extreme heat in Las Vegas, touching the steering wheel of a car can feel like your hands are on fire, and that is exactly what can happen on the outside of the vehicle.
In the past few days, the authorities have reported several vehicle fires, three of them on Thursday afternoon alone.
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Although the causes of the fires can vary, Nevada Department of Transportation’s Tony Illia says the last thing anyone wants will now collapse by the side of the road.
“Skipping is common, especially when the heat quickly reaches 110 degrees – here 115 degrees – that happens routinely in the midsummer months,” said Illia.
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Sergio Avila with AAA in Nevada says a simple routine pre-ride vehicle check, including checking tire pressures, could make all the difference.
“Your tires will literally take in a lot of heat, your engine and your batteries too,” Avila said of the most common problems related to heat in cars.
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Maintenance is especially important if you haven’t looked after your car during the pandemic, he says.
Below is a list from NDOT of important things to check to avoid trouble with your car during the summer heat.
Check fluids
Save yourself the hassle of hot weather by monitoring your car’s fluids, including coolant, engine oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and windshield wiper fluid
Check belts and hoses
Examine the straps and hoses on your vehicle. Excessive heat can cause cracks, blistering, and other damage to your belts and hoses, which may require replacements.
Replace the battery
An old battery in the extreme summer heat can mean trouble. To avoid expensive repairs, it’s worth having your car’s battery tested or even replaced – getting a new battery. It costs less than having a dead battery serviced during a breakdown.
Tire pressure
Check your tire pressure regularly at the gas station or at home if you have a tire pressure gauge. Tires expand when exposed to heat. And inflating them with the right pressure will ensure your vehicle won’t have any problems.
Emergency case
An emergency vehicle kit is something that you should keep in your car all year round. It should be kept in a safe and accessible place and contains jumper cables, a flashlight, street torches, waterproof food and a first aid kit
Keep the interior of your car cool
The right amount of engine coolant is essential, especially on extremely hot summer days. It’s also important to have a vehicle interior that is cool enough to drive. Before the heat gets too hot, make sure your air conditioner is working properly. If your vehicle has a cabin air filter, have it checked and, if necessary, replaced to get the most out of your cooling system.
Take highways instead of back roads
Motorways are generally better maintained than normal roads and are better equipped to deal with extreme heat. Remember the importance of maintaining your tires – the last thing you want is a blown tire on the highway.
OTHER HEAT STORIES
