Summer is a time of increased stress on vehicles, as hot weather can cause the engine to overheat, which can have serious consequences. Repairing the effects of overheating can be expensive, including replacing the engine or making major repairs.
To avoid overheating problems, maintain vehicle operating efficiency, and reduce repair costs, fleet companies take a number of maintenance measures. We will discuss what these measures are and why engine overheating is dangerous in this article.
Top Summer Vehicle Maintenance Activities
Cooling system. Low coolant level is the most common cause of overheating. It is important to ensure that the coolant level is correct, that there are no leaks in the cooling system, and that the radiator is clean. If necessary, the cooling system is cleaned.
The thermostat, water pump and fan are also checked.
Engine oil and filters. Oil not only lubricates the engine, it also helps cool it. High temperatures can affect the viscosity of the oil, so check its level and condition. If the oil level is too low, the engine may overheat.
A dirty air filter can reduce engine power and cause the engine to overheat. A clogged or defective fuel filter can also overload the fuel pump and cause it to fail.
A faulty fuel pump can cause the engine to overheat. Because The fuel pump is one of the main components.which supplies fuel to the engine.
Brake system and tire condition. In summer, the brake system is under greater stress due to heat and dust. Check the brake fluid level, condition of the pads and discs, and system tightness.
Summer temperatures can cause tire pressure to increase, so check your tire pressure and condition. Worn tires increase the risk of punctures and impair vehicle control.
Battery and electrical system. Heat can damage the battery, so check its condition, charge and terminals.
The condition of the wiring and electrical appliances is also checked.
The air conditioning system is checked – refrigerant level and compressor condition.
Visual Inspection: All important components and assemblies in the vehicle are checked for leaks, damage, and other problems.
Engine Overheating Risks
Overheating can cause serious damage to the engine, such as cylinder distortion, gasket damage, and other important components.
- An overheated engine does not operate as efficiently as usual, which can result in reduced power output and poor dynamic performance.
- A hot engine consumes more fuel.
- An overheated engine can cause a loss of power or even stall the engine while driving, which could lead to an accident.
- In extreme cases, overheating can cause the engine to catch fire, which is also a serious hazard.
Regular fleet inspection and maintenance in the summer is crucial to maintaining vehicle efficiency and reliability and avoiding costly repairs.