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Protecting your vehicle in extreme heat

Mechanics said the extreme heat could take a toll on your battery's life and tires.

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky — Summer is the perfect time to take a road trip, but with the heat, you may want to thoroughly check your car before hitting the road.

Oftentimes we think the bitter cold of winter is the only time our car runs into problems, but mechanics said the extreme heat could also take a toll on your battery's life and tires.

"The heat does cause things to weaken," the service director at the James Collins Downtown Ford Louisville dealer and body shop, Jim Frye, said. "We get several calls and we had several calls Friday about AC and cars not starting."

Frye said make sure your vehicle passes the test.

"Check your engine air filter, the batteries, brakes, and tires," Frye said. 

Another tip is to test your battery life if it is more than 3-years-old. 

"Proper tire inflation can increase your fuel economy," Frye said. 

Frye said your tires should not be tired out, but you should avoid putting too much air pressure in your tires so it won't increase your chances of having a blowout when embarking on a long road trip.

"Have jumper cables and maybe a portable air compressor where they can plug in if the tire does get flat and does not blow out totally," Frye said.  

For a smooth drive, he said do not forget about replacing the air filter and filling up your fluids. 

"Sitting in traffic, I would crack your windows a little bit because the carbon monoxide may build up," Frye said. "We suggest having jumper cables or little air compressor and stuff in the car ready for a trip."

Just in case your car ever breaks down, Frye said it is a good idea to pack plenty of water bottles and snacks.

Contact reporter Senait Gebregiorgis at SGebregior@whas11.com and follow her on Twitter and Facebook.

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