While Allentown summers are mild compared to other parts of the country, that doesn’t mean your vehicle is off the hook. At Allied Automotive, we know how heat, humidity, and longer drives can quietly wear down your car’s most important systems. The difference between a smooth ride and a roadside emergency often comes down to whether you gave your car the seasonal attention it needed.
Even moderate temperatures can impact things like tire pressure, coolant levels, battery life, and fuel efficiency. Think of summer car maintenance not as a chore but as preparation for the months ahead, whether you’re commuting, heading out for a weekend getaway, or just running errands around town.
So, how do you know what your car needs this time of year? Let’s break it down with practical, local insight.
Understanding What Summer Does to Your Car
Unlike the winter months when freezing temperatures make issues obvious, summer problems tend to creep in more subtly. Here are a few key areas affected by summer conditions:
Heat + Humidity = Hidden Trouble
Even with average summer highs in the 70s and 80s, extended periods of heat can weaken your battery, evaporate essential fluids, and reduce tire pressure. Add in humidity, and electrical systems or A/C units may struggle even more.
Driving Habits Change
Summer often means longer trips, heavier loads (think vacation gear or towing), and stop-and-go traffic. These conditions place added stress on brakes, engines, and cooling systems.
The Most Overlooked Summer Maintenance Tasks
Many drivers in Allentown are familiar with oil changes and tire checks, but some of the most crucial services are the ones people often skip.
Coolant and Radiator Checks
Coolant isn’t just for winter. It plays a vital role in keeping your engine from overheating during warmer months. If you’re searching for a “coolant check near me,” consider having your radiator and hoses inspected at the same time. Leaks and cracks are common after a long winter, and they’re easier to fix before they become serious.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement
This filter impacts the air quality inside your car and the efficiency of your A/C system. If you’re noticing a musty smell or weak airflow, this could be the culprit, not the A/C itself.
Windshield Wipers and Washer Fluid
Summer storms can be sudden and intense in Pennsylvania. Wipers that were good enough for spring might not perform well in a downpour. Combine that with low washer fluid, and visibility becomes a safety concern.
What Mechanics Check That Drivers Often Don’t
As a shop that focuses on relationships and education, we find that many customers are surprised by what they’ve been overlooking. Here’s a brief walk-through of what an experienced technician at Allied Automotive considers during a summer check-up that often goes unnoticed by car owners:
- Battery testing: Warmer temps can increase internal corrosion. A visual check isn’t enough.
- Brake inspection: Thicker brake pads might still have uneven wear, especially after stop-and-go city driving.
- A/C system diagnostics: Weak A/C may not always mean low refrigerant, it could be a sensor, blend door, or filter.
- Tire wear patterns: Uneven wear might indicate a suspension or alignment issue, not just low pressure.
This kind of insight, built on years of hands-on experience with domestic, Asian, and hybrid vehicles, isn’t something you’ll get from a quick-lube center or a basic inspection.
The Summer Car Care Checklist Allentown Drivers Should Follow
Here’s a simple, comprehensive list to guide your summer car maintenance routine:
1. Tire Inspection
Look for tread depth, sidewall damage, and signs of uneven wear. Hot roads and fluctuating temperatures can cause tires to deflate more quickly than expected. Schedule a tire inspection in Allentown before your next long drive.
2. A/C System Check
You don’t want your air conditioning failing during a July traffic jam. If airflow is weak or the air isn’t as cool as it used to be, it’s time for a professional car A/C repair in Allentown.
3. Oil Change
Engines run hotter in summer, so using the right oil matters more than ever. At Allied Automotive, we use full synthetic oil for better protection and performance. Searching for an oil change near me? Make sure it’s with a shop that uses high-quality products and checks all your fluids in the process.
4. Coolant and Fluid Levels
Coolant levels should be checked and topped off with the correct mixture. Also, inspect brake, transmission, and windshield washer fluids to ensure they are clean and at the proper levels.
5. Battery Health
If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. Heat accelerates chemical reactions, which can cause the battery to wear out faster than expected.
Ready for a summer tune-up? Trust Allied Automotive in Allentown for expert maintenance before your next big trip. Call us or book online today!
What’s In Your Glovebox?
A lot of summer breakdowns aren’t about big mechanical failures, they’re about being unprepared. So take five minutes this week to check your glovebox and trunk. Here’s a quick list of what you should have on hand for summer:
- A working flashlight
- Extra windshield washer fluid
- Basic first aid kit
- Jumper cables or battery pack
- Tire pressure gauge
- Phone charger
- Emergency contact info (including your trusted repair shop)
These small items can make a big difference if you’re stuck in traffic or on the side of the road. If you’re missing more than one, it might be time for a quick visit to your shop, not just to top off fluids, but to get prepared with peace of mind.
Your Local Pit Stop for Summer-Ready Auto Care
If you’re ready to stop searching and start driving confidently, Allied Automotive is your destination for trusted, thorough, and transparent summer car care.
Why Local Drivers Trust Allied Automotive:
- Certified Technicians: ASE Certified and equipped with dealer-level diagnostics
- Digital Vehicle Inspections: Clear, photo-based reports sent directly to your phone or email
- Specialization in Domestic and Asian Vehicles: Including Ford, Chevy, Toyota, Honda, Jeep (especially Wranglers), and Teslas
- Comprehensive Services: From general maintenance to diagnostics, A/C repair, alignments, brakes, and more
- Convenience First: Free shuttle service, complimentary loaner cars, mobile payment options, and secure after-hours pickup/drop-off
- Warranty You Can Count On: Every auto repair is backed by a 36-month/36,000-mile parts and labor warranty, plus a 5-year workmanship guarantee, so you can drive away with confidence knowing we stand behind everything we do
Our team takes the time to educate customers, not upsell them. Every service visit ends with a thoughtful gift and a thank you because we know trust is built over time, not in one visit.
FAQs About Summer Car Maintenance in Allentown, PA
How does summer weather affect tire pressure and what should I do about it?
Tire pressure can fluctuate with temperature changes, typically increasing in warmer weather. However, overinflation is just as risky as underinflation. Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold (early morning is best) and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommendation found on your driver’s door sticker. Have your tires inspected monthly during the summer.
Is it necessary to get an alignment during summer?
While summer doesn’t directly cause alignment issues, poor road conditions and potholes left over from winter and spring can knock your wheels out of alignment. Misalignment affects fuel efficiency, handling, and tire wear. If your car pulls to one side or your steering wheel vibrates, get an alignment check.
Can skipping summer maintenance void my warranty?
In many cases, yes. Most manufacturer warranties require routine maintenance at specific intervals. Skipping services like oil changes or coolant checks could lead to denied warranty claims if a related issue arises. Always keep records of your service visits.
Are hybrid and electric vehicles subject to the same summer maintenance needs?
Yes, and in some cases, they need extra attention. For example, battery cooling systems in EVs must be in good working order to prevent overheating. Cabin filters, tires, and brakes still wear out the same as in gas-powered cars. Allied Automotive is experienced in servicing hybrid and EV systems.
What should I do if I notice a burning smell while driving in warm weather?
A burning smell may indicate overheated brakes, low or leaking fluids, or an issue with your A/C compressor. It’s not something to ignore. Pull over safely and call a professional to prevent further damage.
Summer Starts with a Car You Can Rely On
Planning weekend drives, beach trips, or just more time on the road this season? Before you pack the snacks and load the playlist, bring your car to Allied Automotive, Allentown’s trusted name in auto care.
We know how to keep things cool under the hood, on the dash, and in your budget. From A/C repair to fluid checks, we’ve got your back, so summer doesn’t slow you down.
Stop by or schedule a visit at:
5580 Quince Rd, Allentown, PA 18106
Give us a call at 610-351-0020 or book online. You take care of the driving. We’ll take care of the rest.
