In Katy, Texas, summer comes with heat. It’s the type of heat that makes you not want to leave your air-conditioned house just to get to your air-conditioned car. With temperatures regularly meeting an average of the mid to upper 90s Fahrenheit and combined with high humidity, it’s important to take precautions when you head out on the road. Both for you and your car.

Check, Check, and Check: Your Cooling System and Fluids

You never want your air conditioning system to fail when you drive in Texas, but the absolute worst time for it to go would be during the summer when you need it the most. Air conditioning is a must when you get into a car in Katy, Texas, when the temperature outside is 100 degrees and it’s 130 degrees inside the car after it’s been sitting outside.
Make sure to have your radiator checked for leaks, and make sure all the hoses and belts are in good condition. You should also have the water pump checked, along with the coolant and oil levels.

How Do Your Tires Look?

As the temperatures creep up, the air in your tires expands. If you don’t have the right tire pressure for summer heat, it can lead to a blowout. This, of course, can be very dangerous, especially if it happens when you’re cruising along at highway speeds.
Another thing to keep in mind about your tires is how the Texas heat can put extra wear on tires. If you’re headed out on a summer road trip, make sure to check the tread before you go. If it’s showing signs of wear, it’s probably in your best interest to get new tires put on before hitting the hot roads.

The All-Important Battery Check

Your car can’t function without the battery, which is why you’ll want to have it checked before the summer heat sets in. The heat and humidity contribute to corrosion across the entire vehicle, but you’ll probably find that the main victim is the battery.
Corrosion can shorten the battery’s lifespan and lead to poor vehicle performance. Think air conditioning that starts running lukewarm instead of ice cold. You don’t want that when the temperatures reach 100 degrees.

You Should Stay Hydrated

While you’re sitting in your nice, cool car, you might forget how hot it is outside. While you’ll be reminded as soon as you make a stop and open the door, while riding along, you still want to stay hydrated. Always bring plenty of water along for the ride, even if it’s just around town.

If you’re going to be on the road for an extended period of time, pack a cooler with ice to keep your water cold.

Pack am Emergency Kit

Always be prepared can be your motto, too. Even if you’re not leaving town, it can’t hurt to have a fully stocked emergency kit in your car. Fill it with water, batteries, an extra phone charger, jumper cables, and some basic tools.