The National Weather Service has issued an Excessive Heat Warning through 8 pm Monday for much of North Texas. And all these high temperatures aren't just bad for us, the heat can also play havoc with your vehicle.
Experts say having too low tire pressure can cause blowouts on super hot asphalt. If the tire is low the sidewalls can become weak causing excessive wear. So if you're driving on 120 degree asphalt the air pressure expands and the sidewall gives out.
And the heat can destroy your windshield wipers - where windshields in the direct sunlight can exceed 200 degrees.
Master Mechanic Duane "Doc" Watson, national training manager for Bosch diagnostics, says to flip the blades up to keep them from baking and drying out and affixing themselves to the glass which causes them to tear apart.
Engine temperatures rise as well, in fact it's so hot on the hood that the engine which usually runs at 200 to 210 degrees can jump to 250, bringing fluids to the boiling point.
The overheating engine fluids include brake fluid, and that can make your brake pedal feel spongy.
Watson says it's also a good idea to change your oil more frequently when it's really hot.
Related
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news