How Utah Drivers Should Prepare Their Vehicles for Summer

As the snow melts and the Wasatch Mountains start to bloom, summer driving season is just around the corner in Utah. Whether you’re planning road trips to Moab or daily commutes around the Salt Lake Valley, prepping your vehicle for the warmer months is essential. Extreme temperatures, fluctuating weather patterns, and high elevation driving can all take a toll on your car. At Jerry Seiner Collision Center, we want to help you stay safe and stress-free on the road.

Here’s how Salt Lake drivers can prepare their vehicles for summer.

1. Check Your Cooling System

Utah summers often push temperatures into the 90s and even triple digits. That heat can strain your engine—especially if your cooling system isn’t functioning at its best.

What to do:

• Make sure your radiator and hoses are free from cracks or leaks.
• Top off or flush your coolant if needed (most vehicles need a coolant service every 30,000 miles).
• Test your thermostat and radiator fan for proper operation.

If your temperature gauge is creeping too high, don’t wait—it could result in serious engine damage.

2. Inspect and Replace Worn Tires

Winter driving in Utah is tough on tires, and transitioning into summer without checking them can be risky.

Look for:

• Uneven tread wear or low tread depth.
• Sidewall cracks or punctures.
• Proper tire pressure (hot pavement and altitude can affect inflation).

You’ll want tires with good traction for both dry pavement and unexpected summer rainstorms. If you need a tire rotation or replacement, our service experts can help.

3. Test the Air Conditioning System

No one wants to be stuck in I-15 traffic with a failing A/C. Before the summer heat kicks in, check your climate control system.

Key steps:

• Run the A/C and ensure it blows cold consistently.
• Listen for any strange sounds coming from the compressor.
• Recharge refrigerant levels if needed.

If your A/C isn’t keeping you cool, it might just need a simple fix—or it could be time for a more in-depth inspection.

4. Clean and Protect Your Exterior and Interior

Salt Lake winters leave behind more than just potholes—your vehicle’s paint, undercarriage, and interior can take a beating from road salt and debris.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Schedule a professional detailing or wash to remove salt buildup.
• Apply wax or ceramic coating to protect against UV rays and bugs.
• Vacuum and condition your interior—especially leather or vinyl surfaces that can crack in the sun.

Jerry Seiner Collision Center offers exterior polishing and vehicle customization services if you want to give your ride a fresh, summer-ready look.

5. Check Your Battery and Electrical System

Heat is just as hard on your car battery as cold weather. High temps can cause battery fluid to evaporate, weakening performance.

What to do:

• Test your battery’s voltage and overall health.
• Check cables for corrosion or loose connections.
• If your battery is more than 3 years old, consider a replacement before summer hits.

6. Stock Your Summer Emergency Kit

From canyon drives to remote desert highways, it’s smart to be prepared in case of a roadside emergency.

Pack your kit with:

• Extra water and snacks
• Sunscreen and a hat
• Jumper cables and tire inflator
• Flashlight, first aid kit, and roadside triangles

7. Schedule a Multi-Point Inspection

Before your summer adventures begin, let a certified technician take a full look under the hood. At Jerry Seiner Collision Center, we’re happy to provide inspections that cover:

• Brakes and suspension
• Fluids and filters
• Alignment and steering
• Lights, wipers, and safety systems

Get Summer-Ready with Jerry Seiner Collision Center

Don’t wait until your car overheats in the middle of a Utah road trip. Preparing your vehicle for summer ensures safer, smoother driving and helps prevent expensive breakdowns. Whether you need a fresh polish, minor body repair, or just a quick A/C inspection, the experts at Jerry Seiner Collision Center in Salt Lake City have you covered.

Schedule your summer prep appointment today, and drive into the season with confidence.