Planning to escape to the mountains this summer? Before you start that scenic drive through Colorado, it’s important to know how extreme heat can affect your vehicle. High temperatures don’t just make things uncomfortable—they put extra stress on your car’s essential systems, increasing the chance of something going wrong on the road. At West Vail Towing, we see it every year: overheated engines, dead batteries, tire blowouts, and more. Here’s how the heat takes a toll—and how to stay ahead of trouble.
Why Is Engine Overheating More Common in the Summer?
When temperatures climb, your engine has to work harder to stay cool. Long climbs up mountain passes like Vail Pass or traveling through congested traffic with the A/C on full blast only adds to the stress. If your radiator or cooling system is already struggling, a spike in heat could push it over the edge.
Before heading out, take a few minutes to inspect your cooling system. Pop the hood and verify your coolant is at the proper level. Keep an eye out for dried fluid around hoses or signs of bulging or cracking. If the temperature gauge starts creeping up while you’re driving, it’s best to pull over somewhere safe and give the engine time to cool. And remember—opening a radiator cap while it’s hot can be dangerous, so wait until everything cools down before checking under the cap.
Can Summer Heat Drain Your Battery?
Most people associate battery problems with winter, but heat is actually more damaging to your car’s battery over time. High temperatures accelerate internal wear and may cause the battery’s internal fluid to evaporate faster than normal, leading to reduced performance.
To avoid surprises on the road, it’s a smart idea to get your battery tested—especially if it’s older. While under the hood, look for white or bluish buildup around the battery posts and gently clean it off if present. If your car has been slow to start lately or the dashboard lights flicker, don’t overlook those signs. Heat can push a weak battery to the point of failure quickly.
Are Your Tires Ready for the Heat?
Hot pavement and underinflated tires are a dangerous combination. As the air inside your tires expands with the heat, pressure builds. Tires already worn or improperly inflated are much more likely to fail—especially at highway speeds.
Check your tire pressure when the tires are cold and make sure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendation. Don’t forget to inspect the tread and sidewalls for cracks or uneven wear. And yes—always check the spare before a long trip.
What Happens to Fluids in Hot Weather?
Your vehicle relies on a variety of fluids—coolant, oil, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid—all of which are affected by heat. In extreme temperatures, these fluids can thin out or break down, reducing their effectiveness and leaving critical systems vulnerable.
Before a summer trip, check all fluid levels and top them off if needed. If it’s been a while since your last oil change or system flush, this is a good time to take care of it.
Is Air Conditioning Just for Comfort?
When driving in hot weather, a functioning A/C system does more than keep you cool—it can prevent driver fatigue and heat-related illness. But like any other system, it can fail when under stress.
If your air conditioning isn’t blowing cold, smells off, or makes odd noises, have it inspected before hitting the road. In a remote area, losing A/C can quickly go from uncomfortable to dangerous.
What Should You Do if You Break Down in the Heat?
If your car breaks down in the summer heat, your priority is staying safe. Pull off the road as far as possible, turn on hazard lights, and stay inside the vehicle if it’s safer than standing outside. Run the A/C if the engine allows, or roll down windows for ventilation.
Then call for professional help. West Vail Towing provides fast, reliable towing and roadside assistance across Eagle County, including Vail, Avon, Minturn, and Edwards. Whether you’re dealing with an overheated engine or a flat tire, we’re here to get you back on the road safely.
Stay Ahead of Summer Travel Trouble
Summer is the perfect time for road trips—but it’s also a peak season for vehicle failures. The combination of long drives, mountainous terrain, and extreme heat can test your car in ways you might not expect.
Take the time to inspect your vehicle before heading out, and keep our number handy in case trouble strikes.
Need Help on the Road?
West Vail Towing is here for you 24/7. Whether you’re stuck on the side of the highway or on a mountain pass, we provide towing and roadside assistance throughout Eagle County. Call us at 970-476-3394 for fast, friendly service.
