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Summer is a time when pressure on vehicles increases, as hot weather can cause the engine to overheat, which can have serious consequences. Dealing with the effects of overheating can be expensive, including replacing the motor or major repairs.
To prevent overheating problems, keep their vehicles running efficiently and minimize repair costs, companies with fleets are taking a number of maintenance measures. We discuss what these measures are and why engine overheating is dangerous in this article.
Major maintenance work on vehicles in the summer
The cooling system. Insufficient 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 flushed.
The thermostat, water pump and fan are also checked.
The engine oil and filters. Oil not only lubricates the engine, but also helps cool it. High temperatures can affect the viscosity of the oil. Therefore, its level and condition is checked. 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 increases the load on the fuel pump and leads to failure.
A defective fuel pump can cause the engine temperature to rise. Because the fuel pump is one of the most important elementsthat supplies fuel to the engine.
The braking system and the condition of the tires. In summer, the braking system is subject to greater strain due to heat and dust. Checked the brake fluid level, the condition of the brake pads and discs and the tightness of the system.
Summer temperatures can increase pressure in tires, so their pressure and condition are checked. Worn tires increase the risk of punctures and affect driving behavior.
The battery and the electrical system. Heat can negatively affect the battery, so its condition, charge and connections are checked.
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 major components and assemblies of the vehicle are inspected for leaks, damage and other problems.
The dangers of engine overheating
Overheating can cause serious engine damage such as cylinder distortion, gasket damage and other critical components.
- An overheated engine will not operate as efficiently as normal, which can lead to lower power and poorer dynamic performance.
- An overheated engine uses more fuel.
- An overheated engine can cause a loss of power or even stall the engine while driving, which can lead to an accident.
- In extreme cases, overheating can cause the engine to catch fire, which is also a serious hazard.
Regular inspection and maintenance of fleets during the summer is critical to maintaining vehicle efficiency and reliability and avoiding expensive repairs.