Extreme Heat Can Affect Your Car's Performance

Gan Matthews, News 9

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Extremes of weather can affect your car's performance in many ways.

The most common heat-related problem showing at car service centers this summer is a breakdown in a vehicle's air conditioning system.

Often the problem is with the compressor, and that's expensive to replace. But there are other things that can go wrong with the A.C., and most of the problems can be avoided.

"You need to make sure you've got a good belt on there," says Ken West, Managing Partner at a Firestone Service Center in Norman."You can get your air conditioner serviced, and make sure the correct amount of Freon's in there, so it's working optimally for you."

West recommends regular maintenance to prevent heat-related problems with the A.C., the battery, and other electrical systems.

He also says extreme heat is the enemy of tires, especially tires that are under inflated.

Here are some tips from AAA to keep your car running in the heat. AAA and Firestone are in agreement on what you need to watch out for:

--heat zaps batteries

--check car fluids

--check A.C.

--under inflated tires