Why August Is Brutal on Your Vehicle
August is consistently one of the hottest months in St. Louis. With temperatures soaring past 95°F and humidity levels that feel like a sauna, your Ford is working overtime to keep up. Heat can be just as damaging as winter cold — if not worse — for key components like your battery, tires, and air conditioning.
That’s why August is the perfect time for a late-summer checkup at Dave Sinclair Ford.
1. Check Your Battery — Hot Weather Drains Power
- Extreme heat accelerates battery fluid evaporation
- Corrosion buildup can reduce connection strength
- Batteries over 3 years old are more likely to fail in August
We’ll run a complimentary battery test during your service visit. If your Ford isn’t starting as confidently as usual, don’t wait until it leaves you stranded in the Schnucks parking lot.
2. Keep Tires Inflated for Safety & Fuel Economy
Hot pavement increases tire pressure — but underinflation is also common due to slow leaks or improper monitoring. Underinflated tires lead to:
- Poor fuel efficiency
- Uneven tread wear
- Increased blowout risk at highway speeds
3. Test the A/C System — Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff
Few things are more miserable than a broken A/C system in August. Even if your system is blowing cold air, it might be working too hard if refrigerant levels are low or there’s a clogged cabin filter.
- Weak airflow or strange smells from vents
- A/C taking longer to cool off the cabin
- Unusual noises when the compressor runs
4. Inspect Engine Coolant & Hoses
Your engine depends on coolant to maintain safe operating temperatures — especially when stuck in I-270 traffic or towing in St. Charles. If levels are low or the mix is off, your engine could overheat.
- Coolant level and quality
- Leaks around hoses and the radiator
- Proper pressure and cap seal
5. Keep Up with Oil Changes (Especially in High Heat)
Oil thins out faster when temperatures rise. If you’re overdue for an oil change — or using older conventional oil — now’s the time to switch to high-quality synthetic oil that resists thermal breakdown.
6. Protect Your Interior from UV Damage
Don’t forget about interior care during the heat! UV rays can fade dashboards, crack leather, and warp plastics.
- Use a sunshade or park in covered areas
- Apply UV protectant to vinyl or leather surfaces
- Consider window tinting for long-term protection
7. Bonus: Don’t Ignore That Check Engine Light
Increased heat can cause failing sensors, worn spark plugs, or emissions issues to trigger warning lights. If you see the light, don’t delay — we’ll scan your system and provide a full diagnosis.
Summer Maintenance Checklist
| System | What to Check | Recommended Service |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Voltage, corrosion | Test & replace if needed |
| Tires | Pressure, tread depth | Adjust air, rotate tires |
| A/C | Airflow, noise, refrigerant | Recharge or clean system |
| Coolant | Levels, hose leaks | Flush or top-off |
| Oil | Age, quality | Change with synthetic |
| Interior | Fading, cracking | Protectants & sunshade |
Why Service at Dave Sinclair Ford in August?
- Certified Ford technicians who know your model inside and out
- Genuine Ford parts and fluids for peak performance
- Quick Lane® service for same-day oil, tires, and batteries
- Online appointment scheduling and FordPass integration
Book Your Summer Service Appointment Today
Beat the heat — don’t wait for your vehicle to overheat, stall, or break down. Schedule your Ford service today with Dave Sinclair Ford in St. Louis. We’ll help you stay cool, safe, and road-ready all summer long.
