How Extreme Weather Affects Your Engine and When to See a Mechanic
Extreme weather can take a serious toll on your engine. Since hot summers and freezing winters put extra stress on critical components, staying on top of maintenance is key. Whether you’re driving through Louisville’s humid summers, bracing for cold winter mornings, or heading to the newly expanded college keeping your engine in top shape prevents breakdowns. At Meineke on Shelbyville Road, our ASE-certified mechanics ensure your engine stays reliable no matter the season. So, in this post, the experts at Meineke are here to go over how extreme weather affects your engine and what you can do to protect it.
So, How Does Extreme Weather Affect Your Engine?
Since engines rely on a balance of fuel, air, coolant, and lubrication, sudden temperature changes can cause stress, wear, and performance issues. But knowing how extreme weather impacts your engine helps you stay ahead of potential problems.
- Hot Weather: If temperatures rise, then your engine runs hotter, putting extra strain on the cooling system. So, overheating becomes a major risk.
- Cold Weather: If temperatures drop, then engine oil thickens, making it harder for your car to start. So, fuel efficiency may also decrease.
- Sudden Temperature Changes: If the weather shifts quickly, then metal components expand and contract, increasing the risk of cracks or leaks.
So, How Can You Protect Your Engine in Extreme Weather?
Since prevention is always better than repairs, keeping up with regular maintenance helps your engine handle temperature changes and perform at its best. So, here are a few essential tips to protect your engine:
- Check Your Coolant Levels – Since overheating is a major issue in hot weather, keeping your coolant topped off prevents engine damage.
- Use the Right Engine Oil – If temperatures drop, then switching to a winter-grade oil ensures smoother startups. So, checking your owner’s manual for the correct oil type is key.
- Inspect Your Battery – Since cold weather weakens batteries, testing yours before winter prevents unexpected breakdowns.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belts and Hoses – If extreme heat or cold causes rubber parts to crack, then replacing them early prevents engine failure.
- Let Your Engine Warm Up in the Cold – Since oil thickens in low temperatures, letting your engine idle for a minute before driving ensures proper lubrication.
When to See a Mechanic for Engine Issues
Although regular maintenance helps, extreme weather can still cause problems. So, if you notice any of these warning signs, visit Meineke on Shelbyville Road in Louisville for an inspection:
- Engine Overheating – If your temperature gauge runs high, then your cooling system may not be working properly.
- Hard Starts in Cold Weather – If your car struggles to start, then your battery, fuel system, or oil may need attention.
- Leaking Fluids – If you see coolant or oil leaks, then your engine may have a cracked hose or gasket.
- Check Engine Light – If your warning light turns on, then a professional diagnostic can pinpoint the issue.
So, Call Meineke Today for a Quick Check-Up
Since extreme weather puts extra stress on your engine, routine maintenance is essential. But if your car is overheating, struggling to start, or leaking fluids, Meineke on Shelbyville Road in Louisville is here to help. Whether you need an oil change, cooling system check, or full engine diagnostic, our ASE-certified mechanics will keep your vehicle running smoothly in any season. So, don’t wait until a minor issue turns into a major repair—Call Meineke today for a quick check-up.
If the Meineke on Shelbyville Road in Louisville is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke also has 15 car repair centers is Kentucky:
Meineke Car Care – Dixie Hwy
5326 DIXIE HWY
Louisville, KY 40216
Call (844) 311-4548
Meineke Car Care – Preston Hwy
7103 Preston Highway
Louisville, KY 40219
Call (844) 605-8457
Meineke Car Care – Bardstown Rd
4170 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40218
Call (844) 321-3541
Meineke Car Care – East Broadway
701 East Broadway
Louisville, KY 40202
Call (855) 973-7820
Meineke Car Care – Outer Loop
6420 Outer Loop
Louisville, KY 40228
Call (844) 417-2336
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd
11514 Shelbyville Road
Louisville, KY 40243
Call (844) 352-0216
Meineke Car Care – Dupont Rd
1019 Dupont Road
Louisville, KY 40207
Call (502) 791-9526
Meineke Car Care – Plantside Drive
10723 Plantside Drive
Louisville, KY 40299
Call (502) 536-9765
Meineke Car Care – South Dixie Blvd
2197 South Dixie Blvd
Radcliff, KY 40160
Call (866) 548-1474
Meineke Car Care – Shelbyville Rd
3949 Shelbyville Rd
St Matthews, KY 40207
Call (888) 633-4889
Meineke Car Care – North Dixie Hwy
1400 North Dixie Hwy
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Call (877) 439-7844
Meineke Car Care – Midland Trail
2000 Midland Trail
Shelbyville, KY 40065
Call (844) 681-4659
Meineke Car Care – West Hwy 146
3717 KY-146
Buckner, KY 40010
Call (844) 353-6212
Meineke Car Care – Peachtree Rd
100 Peachtree Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Call (859) 687-8290
Meineke Car Care – Arrowhead Ct
101 Arrowhead Court
Frankfort, KY 40601
Call (833) 723-5010
Meineke Car Care in Louisville, KY
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