How to Get Your Used Truck Ready for the Summer

With the summer creeping up just around the corner, it’s time to make sure that your used truck is safe to drive and ready to take on those summer highways. We encourage you to bring your truck in for an inspection to make sure it’s good to go. Otherwise, take a moment to review these tips for getting your used truck ready for the summer:

1. Make sure that your air conditioning system is working properly – even if you live in the northern parts of Canada. Keep in mind that high summer temperatures can strain you AC system, so you may want to also plan to bring your truck in for a check-up after a few hot summer months.

2. Change your oil and your oil filter to make sure that your engine has the cleanest oil to worth with. You may want to switch to a higher viscosity oil as well if you plan on towing a boat or RV this summer.

3. Take a look at the coolant level and quality. You may also want to flush the coolant system or change the coolant to get it in peak condition. Your radiator will thank you!

4. Always, throughout the year, make sure that your belts and hoses are in their best shape. If a belt or hose is cracked, swollen, soft, or leaking fluids, then it’s time for a change. You can often tell when a belt or hose needs to be replaced because it will make a high-pitched squealing noise when your car is turned on. Also, belts should only give by about half an inch when you press down. Hoses should not leave any sticky residue on your fingers when you pinch them.

5. Make sure that you battery is fully charged and in its best condition. Summer heat can be especially hard on batteries.

6. Always make sure that your tires have a good tread depth. You will also need to make sure that your tires are wearing evenly. If your tires are “balling”, then you will have less traction on the highways, which can cause you to lose control of your truck.

7. Test your lights to make sure that they are all working properly, including the turn signals and high beams. Also, be sure that there is no debris on your lights that keeps them from working as they should.

Come on in for a special summer inspection or to have one or our technicians take a look at your used truck for you!