Colorado natives know the sun never leaves the Colorado skies. Yet it changes. It doesn’t feel the same in May or June as it does in December. And as the days grow longer, you definitely know when the summer sun is back. 

Those weekend escapes to the mountains are calling your name.

Summer in Colorado is more than just a season—it’s a full-on experience. Whether you’re cruising up I-70 to find fields of wildflowers or winding down canyon roads for an afternoon hike, your car plays a major role in every adventure.

But before you pack your cooler and head out on your next summer escape, ask yourself this: Is your car ready for the heat?

Just like winter demands snow tires and antifreeze, summer has its own checklist. From intense sun exposure to high-altitude drives, this is your mechanic-approved guide to preparing your car for a Colorado summer.

Start with a Cooling System Check

There’s no faster way to ruin a summer road trip than overheating halfway up a mountain pass.

Your engine’s cooling system is your first line of defense against high temperatures. When it’s working correctly, it regulates the engine’s temperature, prevents overheating, and protects internal parts from damage. But when it’s not—well, that’s when you start seeing steam coming from under the hood.

It’s time to prepare before the temperatures rise. You should check:

• Coolant levels – Make sure your coolant reservoir is topped off with the correct mixture.
• Coolant condition – Coolant should be bright and clear, not rusty or sludgy.
• Hoses and clamps – Check for cracks, leaks, or bulging in radiator hoses.
• Radiator – Inspect for leaks or signs of corrosion.
• Water pump – Any squealing, dripping, or overheating may indicate failure.

Not sure where to start? This is an easy one to have us check during your next service. We’ll inspect your cooling system and make sure you’re good to go before the heat sets in.

Check Your Air Conditioning (You’ll Thank Yourself Later)

Remember those 90+ degree days that seem to pop up out of nowhere? If your A/C system is blowing warm air or taking too long to cool the cabin, don’t wait until July to fix it.

Your car’s air conditioning system is made up of several components—compressor, condenser, evaporator, and refrigerant—that need to work in harmony.

You’ll notice a weak A/C system right away:

• Weak airflow
• Warm air from vents
• Strange smells when running the A/C
• Odd noises when turning it on

Most issues can be resolved with a quick system recharge or by replacing worn-out components. If you’ve noticed your A/C has been underperforming, now’s the time to have it inspected before you’re sweating in traffic.

Test the Battery – Heat Can Be Just as Tough as Cold

We tend to associate battery problems with winter, but summer heat can be just as damaging. High temperatures can cause your battery’s fluid to evaporate, leading to internal corrosion and reduced battery life.

Here in Colorado, where temperatures can soar during the day and drop rapidly at night, it’s worth testing your battery to make sure it’s holding a strong charge.

We suggest having your battery checked if:

• It’s more than 3 years old
• Your engine cranks slowly when starting
• You see corrosion around the terminals
• You’ve recently had electrical issues

Bonus tip: Keep your battery terminals clean and tightly connected for better performance and longevity.

Check and Replace Wiper Blades

Wiper blades might seem like a cold-weather essential, but they matter just as much in summer.

Summer storms can strike fast in Colorado, and nothing is more dangerous than being caught on the highway without proper visibility. Not to mention the occasional dust storm or post-wildfire haze that can coat your windshield in grime. Are your wiper blades:

• Leaving streaks
• Making squeaky or chattering noises
• Cracked or warped from sun exposure

It’s time to replace them. And don’t forget to top off your washer fluid—go for a bug-removing formula to handle all those summertime splatters.

Mind Your Tires—They’re the Only Thing Between You and the Road

Hot pavement and high-speed driving? That’s a recipe for tire stress.

As temperatures rise, so does the air pressure inside your tires. And if your tires are already worn or improperly inflated, that heat can make them more prone to blowouts—especially during long drives.

Here’s what to check before summer hits:

• Tire pressure – Check when tires are cold and inflate to the recommended PSI.
• Tread depth – Use a penny or tread gauge to ensure enough grip remains.
• Tire wear – Uneven wear may point to alignment or suspension issues.
• Spare tire – Make sure it’s in good condition and properly inflated.

You might also consider a tire rotation if it’s been more than 5,000 miles—especially before heading out on a summer road trip.

Check Oil and Fluids

Your car’s fluids are the lifeblood of the engine, and they tend to break down more quickly under high heat.

Before summer sets in, check:

• Engine oil – Top off or change if it’s dirty or nearing the end of its life cycle.
• Transmission fluid – Should be clean, pink or red, and at the correct level.
• Brake fluid – Moisture-contaminated fluid can reduce braking efficiency in hot conditions.
• Power steering fluid – Ensure it’s topped off and not discolored.
• Coolant – We already mentioned it, but it’s worth repeating!

If you’re unsure how to check or top these off, don’t worry—we’re happy to do it for you during your next oil change or summer inspection.

Don’t Forget the Cabin Air Filter

Your cabin air filter traps pollen, dust, and debris from entering your car’s interior—and during summer, that’s more important than ever.

If you’re noticing musty smells, reduced airflow, or you suffer from summer allergies, it might be time to swap out the filter. A clean filter means cleaner air, a more efficient A/C system, and a better driving experience all around.

Think About Your Summer Driving Plans

Now’s also a good time to think about where your summer will take you.

• Mountain driving: Make sure your brakes, cooling system, and transmission are ready for elevation changes and long grades.
• Road trips: Check your tire condition, battery health, and make sure your spare tire kit is in place.
• Camping or towing: If you’re hauling a camper, boat, or gear, double-check towing capacity, brake condition, and trailer connections.

Let us know your plans, and we’ll make sure your car is ready for whatever’s ahead.

Final Step: Schedule a Summer Inspection

Getting your car summer-ready is more than guesswork—it’s about taking action before issues arise.

A professional inspection can catch the things you might miss, like worn belts, aging hoses, or a failing thermostat. It’s the peace of mind you need before your next mountain drive, backyard BBQ, or full-on road trip.

If you haven’t had your car checked in a while, now’s the perfect time. Schedule a summer inspection with us, and we’ll make sure your vehicle is safe, cool, and road-trip ready—so you can enjoy every mile of your Colorado summer.

Because when the sun’s shining and the road is calling, the last thing you want is car trouble slowing you down.