From Fiesta weekend traffic to beach trips down to Rincon, summer puts your car through its paces. Here's how to keep it running cool when the temps climb.
Santa Barbara summers are gorgeous, but they're no vacation for your vehicle. Whether you're stuck in Fiesta parade traffic on De la Guerra, parked all day at Hendry's Beach, or making the drive up to Lake Cachuma, the heat takes a toll.
1. Check Your Coolant System
Our coastal climate means your engine coolant works double duty. The combination of heat and humidity can accelerate corrosion in your radiator. We recommend a coolant flush before summer hits, especially if you haven't had one since last Fiesta.
2. Inspect Your AC System
Nothing worse than a broken AC when you're crawling through downtown traffic on a 90-degree day. Our technicians can check refrigerant levels, inspect the compressor, and make sure you're blowing cold before the heat wave hits.
3. Test Your Battery
Heat kills car batteries faster than cold. If your battery is over 3 years old and you park outside (looking at you, Isla Vista commuters), get it tested. A dead battery at Stearns Wharf is nobody's idea of a good time.
4. Check Your Tires
Hot pavement on the 101 means higher tire pressure. Over-inflated tires wear unevenly and can blow out. Under-inflated tires waste gas, and with Santa Barbara gas prices, every MPG counts.
5. Replace Your Cabin Air Filter
Between pollen season in the foothills and the occasional Thomas Fire anniversary smoke, your cabin air filter works hard in SB. A fresh filter means cleaner air and better AC performance.