1) Flush and refill the radiator according to your service manual’s recommendations. Use antifreeze in your radiator, even in the summer. It contains corrosion inhibitors that will help reduce rusting.

2) Change the oil and oil filter as specified in your owner's manual. Often the most neglected service, regularly changing your oil can improve the life of your vehicle and is especially important during the summer months as hot weather requires extra lubrication for your engine.

3) Always check the condition of your tires including the spare making sure they can withstand high temperatures. Let the tires cool before checking the air pressure and be on the lookout for uneven wear which may indicate a problem with your suspension system.

4) Try and keep your vehicle out of the sun. Sunlight can be the most damaging element to a car’s finish and will accelerate the aging process of leather and vinyl surfaces. If you do not have a garage or other type of covered structure a car cover may be a wise investment. A cover can also be useful when parking your car near the beach as it will protect from the ocean’s salty spray.

5) At a minimum you should wax your car 3 to 4 times a year. The wax protects your car from harmful UV’s just as sun block protects your skin.

6) Have a marginally operating air conditioner system serviced by a qualified technician.

7) Get your engine inspected. Sitting in traffic and blasting the air conditioner while it is 90 degrees outside has a major impact on your engine.

8) Make sure to get your breaks checked if you hear any squeaking. It is much cheaper to replace a couple of break pads than to replace the rotors if they become worn.

9) Replace broken or malfunctioning windshield wipers. Getting caught in a summer thunderstorm without working wipers can be an extreme driving hazard.

10) Have your car battery checked once a year. It is also a good idea to have jumper cables handy incase of battery failure.