Does the temperature outside effect my car? Will it cause it to over heat?

Florida the SUNSHINE States heat index reaches extremely high temperatures in the summer, many of us start to have concerns about health and safety. As a result, we take certain precautions to ensure we are not at risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and other serious heat-related illnesses and conditions.

However, there is one thing we tend to overlook when it comes to protecting ourselves in hot weather, and that is our vehicles. Not only can the hot summer sun and climate affect the performance and safety of your car, but it can also be dangerous for you and your family's safety and health. It's important we are prepared and know what to do if this happens.

My Car is HOT...HOT...HOT!

If your car overheats on a hot summer day, you can be subjected to your own set of health and safety risks, especially if you do not have access to water or air conditioning. This is even more dangerous for children and individuals with existing health conditions. A car will also overheat if it is operated in excessive sun and high temperatures. As the outside temperatures increase, so does the rate at which your car engine produces and retains heat. As a result, engines can quickly become too hot and stop functioning properly.

What Can You Do?

Operating a vehicle that is overheating is extremely dangerous and should never be attempted.  Instead, if your car or truck overheats, your first step is to find a safe spot to pull over immediately. Once you are safely pulled over to the side of the road, turn off your ignition and wait for your car to cool down enough to check the coolant. If your coolant (antifreeze) is low, top it off with the extra bottle you hopefully carry with you at all times.

If your car cools down enough to start it back up, do so, but without the AC on. The air conditioning uses a lot of energy, so instead, drive with the windows down until you reach your destination. In fact, it helps to put your heat on max; although very uncomfortable, it will pull heat away from your engine and cool it off. If your car will not cool down, call Carter's Towing & Recovery, we can help. You do not want to be sitting in a hot car in hot weather for too long, as this is extremely dangerous.

If you’re stranded somewhere in the Central Florida Area, Carter's Towing is always available and ready to help you out. All you need to do is contact us 24/7 @352-245-3123 and we will assist you.