This summer, while you're working on your tan and sipping lemonade by the pool, you won't be the only one soaking up the season's sunlight. Your car will be joining you in most of your summertime festivities, and just like you take care to put on sunscreen when heading outdoors, your car also needs special attention to make it through the year's hottest season unscathed. The heat and sun can take a serious toll on your car's operation, and savvy drivers will take some time away from their sunbathing to bring their rides up to speed with some basic summertime maintenance. 

Keep on top of your tires
Making sure your car is fit with tires appropriate to the season is important to improve its performance and to prevent unnecessary tire damage. Some cars may call for tires specific to the summer season, but in general, all-weather tires will serve you just fine. The main thing to keep on top of is to make sure that you're not still using your winter tires from the snowy months. These are made of softer rubber, and are far more prone to wear. Swapping them out in the summer means that you'll preserve the tire tread and integrity for longer and can save you from having to buy a new set next winter.

Wiper woes
The snowy, slushy winter months can be devastating on your car's wiper blades. Months of wiping away ice and road salt can render them virtually ineffective by the time the thaw finally hits, and you'll want to make sure to replace them in time for the torrential summer showers. This will help you keep your windshield clean and greatly improve your visibility in poor weather.

Give it some shade
Chances are you wouldn't sit fully exposed in the hot summer sun for hours on end without protection, so why would you expect your car to? Vehicles may not get a sunburn like you do, but direct exposure can still do damage in the form of faded paint and upholstery, and can heat up the interior significantly, requiring your air conditioning to work extra hard. If there's no shade for you to park in, consider investing in a cardboard windshield shade or even a slip cover, to help keep the sun out.

If your vehicle needs maintenance, schedule an appointment with the NJ State Auto Auction Total Car Care Center. The skilled mechanics on staff can help you identify and fix any maintenance issues to help you keep your car running smoothly.