Summertime is here and the rivers are flowing! Sounds like it’s about time to head up the the mountains for hiking, camping, fly-fishing or just about whatever your heart desires!
Mountain driving in the summer is quite different than during the winter months. The temperatures are much warmer and without the snow and ice on the roads we are driving a little faster. This works your car’s cooling system and brake systems much harder, however there are ways to keep your car running strong.
Before you load up the family, all your camping gear and the 4-legged critters to enjoy the mountains, here are some tips to help make your mountain driving easier:
- If you have loaded items on the roof, make sure they are secure. Also remember this will make your vehicle more “top-heavy” so you may need to drive more slowly around curves and corners.
- Watch your engine temperature when driving up hills and lower your speed if it starts to get hot. Going uphill is hard on your transmission and heat is the #1 enemy of your transmission. If you vehicle starts to overheat, shut off your A/C and turn on the heater to provide additional cooling for your engine.
- Watch for rocks and other debris on the roads, especially when driving next to rock formations and in rockslide areas.
- When traveling downhill, downshift (with manual transmissions) or take the transmission out of overdrive (with automatic transmissions). Consult your owner’s manual if you are unsure on how to do this. This will use your engine to help with braking and will help to save your brakes and keep your rotors from warping. When the rotors warp you will get “shake and brake” where your steering wheel shakes while braking.
- Don’t drive through rivers, streams or standing water without first making sure your vehicle is properly equipped and can make it through safely.
- Keep an eye out for travelers on 2 wheels. Bicycles and motorcycles are out in abundance during the summer months.
- When stopping or parking on an incline, use your parking brake as a safety precaution, and turn your wheels away from the roadway.
Overall, just remember to take it easy, as always remember to check your fluid levels and tire pressures before taking off and, most of all, have a great time enjoying our wonderful state and all it has to offer!
Contact us before you head out for mountain driving to schedule a pre-trip check-up.
