While you are busy planning the perfect view for the fireworks, your car is working overtime to battle the midsummer heat. That is why this month at My Mechanic, we are talking about a different kind of essential summer preparation: your vehicle’s fluids.

Think of your car’s fluids like hydration on a hot July afternoon. If you run empty, things start to break down fast. Here are the five key fluids keeping you on the road and out of the repair shop this month.

1. Engine Coolant (The Heat Shield)

Your engine operates at incredibly high temperatures, and on a 90°F July day, it depends entirely on the cooling system to keep from melting down. Coolant (or antifreeze) circulates through the engine to absorb heat and dissipate it through the radiator.

• The Risk: Low or degraded coolant leads straight to overheating, which can warp engine components and leave you with a massive repair bill.
• The Fix: We check both the level and the condition of your coolant to ensure it hasn’t turned acidic or filled with debris.

2. Motor Oil (The Lifeblood)

Heat thins out motor oil, reducing its ability to lubricate the moving parts inside your engine. When oil gets too thin or runs low, friction increases, causing the engine to run even hotter.

• The Risk: Accelerated engine wear or, in worst-case scenarios, a seized engine.
• The Fix: If you are planning a long summer drive, starting with a fresh oil change is the single best insurance policy you can buy for your vehicle.

3. Brake Fluid (The Safety Net)

Brake systems rely on hydraulic pressure to stop your vehicle. Brake fluid is designed to withstand high temperatures, but it is also hygroscopic, meaning it naturally absorbs moisture from the air over time.

• The Risk: Water boils at a much lower temperature than brake fluid. Under heavy braking—like stop-and-go traffic on the hot pavement—that moisture can boil and turn to vapor, causing a spongy brake pedal or a sudden loss of braking power.
• The Fix: A quick test of your brake fluid’s moisture content lets us know if it is time for a flush.

4. Air Conditioning Refrigerant (The Comfort Zone)

While not a fluid you check with a dipstick, your A/C system relies on a precise charge of refrigerant gas and specialized lubricant to pump cool air into the cabin.

• The Risk: A slow leak means your A/C gradually shifts from “arctic blast” to “lukewarm breeze,” right when you need it most.
• The Fix: If your vents aren’t blowing ice-cold, we can perform a leak check and recharge the system to keep you comfortable.

5. Windshield Washer Fluid (The Clear View)

Summer driving brings its own visibility challenges: sudden torrential downpours, baked-on tree sap, and an endless bombardment of highway bugs.

• The Risk: Blinding glare when driving into the sun because your wipers are just smearing dried bugs across the glass.
• The Fix: Keep this topped off with a summer-grade fluid formulated to dissolve bugs and road grime, rather than just water.

Celebrate Your Freedom with Peace of Mind

True driving freedom means hitting the road without wondering if your vehicle is going to make it to your destination.

Before you pack up the coolers, blankets, and lawn chairs for the local fireworks display, swing by My Mechanic in Elmhurst or Clarendon Hills. Our team will gladly check your fluid levels, inspect your belts and hoses, and make sure your vehicle is fully prepared to handle the summer heat.

The post July is for Freedom, Fireworks, and Fluids appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

But while your family is getting ready for summer fun, your vehicle needs a little preparation too.

High Gas Prices? Stay Local & Still Make Memories

We’ve all noticed the prices at the pump lately. With gas prices around the Chicago area still hovering well above normal, many families are rethinking those long-distance road trips this summer.

The good news? You really don’t have to travel far to have an amazing summer.

Whether you’re planning a quick getaway to Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee, spending the day along the lakefront in Chicago, exploring the Illinois Prairie Path, or simply enjoying local events around Elmhurst and Clarendon Hills, there’s plenty to do close to home.

Even those short trips, though, can be hard on your vehicle. Summer stop-and-go traffic, higher temperatures, construction zones, and packed parking lots all create extra stress on your engine, battery, tires, and air conditioning system.

Don’t Sweat the Summer Heat

Nothing ruins a summer outing faster than getting into a hot car and realizing the AC is blowing warm air.

Whether you’re heading to a concert at Wilder Park, running errands around town, or driving the kids to summer activities, your car should keep you cool and comfortable all season long.

Summer heat also puts additional strain on many of your vehicle’s major systems. June is the perfect time to stay ahead of problems before they leave you stranded on the side of the road.

Here are a few services we recommend this time of year:

AC Performance Check

We’ll inspect refrigerant levels, test system performance, and check for leaks so your air conditioning is ready for the hottest days ahead.

Oil Change & Filter Service

Hot temperatures can break down engine oil faster. Fresh oil helps protect your engine during summer traffic and daily driving.

Cooling System Inspection

Your radiator and cooling system work overtime in the heat. A simple inspection can help prevent overheating and costly repairs.

Tire Pressure & Tread Check

Hot pavement is tough on tires. Proper tire pressure not only improves safety but can also help maximize fuel efficiency during summer driving.

Save Money While You Prepare

We know summer activities, camps, vacations, and rising fuel costs can stretch the family budget. That’s why we always encourage customers to check out our latest service specials before stopping in.

From oil change savings to seasonal AC service offers, we’re here to help keep your vehicle reliable without breaking the bank.

Whether you visit our Elmhurst location on Butterfield Road or stop by our Clarendon Hills shop, our team is ready to help keep you safely on the road all summer long — even if your “road trip” is only across town. Don’t forget about our FREE digital inspection!

We look forward to seeing you at the shop!

— Mike & The Team at My Mechanic

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The Impact of Hot Weather on Your Vehicle

1. Tire Troubles

Hot pavement and high temperatures can cause the air inside your tires to expand, increasing the pressure. Over-inflated tires are more prone to blowouts, which can be dangerous.

2. Battery Blues

Heat can accelerate the chemical reactions inside your car battery, leading to overcharging and potentially shortening its lifespan. High temperatures can also cause battery fluid to evaporate, leading to decreased battery performance.

3. Cooling System Strain

Your car’s cooling system works overtime during hot weather to prevent the engine from overheating. If the coolant level is low or the system isn’t functioning properly, it can lead to engine overheating, which can cause significant damage.

4. Fluid Failures

Essential fluids like oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid can break down more quickly in extreme heat. This can reduce their effectiveness and lead to potential mechanical failures.

5. Interior Damage

Direct sunlight and high temperatures can cause your car’s interior to heat up dramatically. This can lead to fading, cracking, and warping of materials like leather, plastic, and vinyl.

Tips from My Mechanic to Beat the Heat

1. Check Tire Pressure Regularly

To prevent blowouts, check your tire pressure regularly, especially during hot weather. Make sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, and get them inspected by My Mechanic for signs of wear and tear and for rotation.

2. Monitor Your Battery

Have your battery checked by the professionals at My Mechanic before issues arise. Keep an eye on the battery’s fluid levels and clean any corrosion from the terminals to ensure a good connection.

3. Maintain the Cooling System

Regularly check your coolant levels and ensure the cooling system is in good working order. It’s a good idea to have the system flushed and refilled according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.

4. Check and Replace Fluids

Keep an eye on your car’s essential fluids. Regularly check and top off oil, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Consider having these fluids replaced if they’re due for a change, as fresh fluids can better withstand the heat.

5. Protect the Interior

Use sunshades or window visors to protect your car’s interior from direct sunlight. Park in the shade whenever possible and consider using a windshield sun protector. Keeping your windows slightly cracked can help reduce the temperature inside the car.

6. Inspect Belts and Hoses

The heat can cause rubber components like belts and hoses to degrade faster. Inspect them for signs of cracking or wear and replace them if necessary to prevent breakdowns.

7. Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle running smoothly in any weather. Follow your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule and have a trusted mechanic inspect your car for any potential issues.

Chicago’s summer heat can take a toll on your vehicle, but with proper care and attention, you can minimize the impact and keep your car running smoothly. By following these tips from the professionals at My Mechanic, you can enjoy the summer months without worrying about your vehicle’s performance. 

The Effects of Items Left in a Hot Vehicle and the Impact on People and Pets

Summer brings sunshine, vacations, and unfortunately, extreme heat. One of the most dangerous places to be during a hot day is inside a parked vehicle. When temperatures soar, the interior of a car can become dangerously hot in a very short period, posing significant risks to any items, people, or pets left inside. Understanding these dangers is crucial to prevent serious harm.

The Dangers of Leaving Items in a Hot Vehicle

1. Electronic Devices

Leaving electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops in a hot car can lead to overheating. High temperatures can damage batteries, screens, and internal components, potentially rendering the devices unusable.

2. Food and Beverages

Perishable food items can quickly spoil in a hot car, leading to the growth of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. Even non-perishable items can suffer from heat exposure, losing their quality and taste. Beverages, particularly those in plastic bottles, can also become unsafe to consume as heat may cause harmful chemicals to leach from the plastic.

3. Medications

Heat can degrade the effectiveness of many medications, making them less effective or even dangerous to use. Always store medication in a cool, dry place and avoid leaving them in your vehicle.

4. Aerosol Cans

Aerosol cans, such as those containing deodorant, hairspray, or cleaning products, can explode when exposed to high temperatures. This damages the car’s interior but also poses a serious safety risk.

5. Plastic Items

Plastic items can melt or warp when left in a hot car, potentially causing spills or damage to other belongings. This includes items like credit cards, sunglasses, and toys.

The Impact on People

1. Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a severe condition that can occur when the body’s temperature rises to dangerous levels. Symptoms include confusion, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and unconsciousness. It can be fatal if not treated promptly.

2. Dehydration

High temperatures can cause rapid dehydration, particularly in children and the elderly, who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. Dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, and in severe cases, organ failure.

3. Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion is less severe than heat stroke but still poses significant health risks. Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and fainting. It requires immediate attention to prevent it from escalating to heat stroke.

The Impact on Pets

1. Heat Stress

Pets, particularly dogs and cats, are highly susceptible to heat stress. Unlike humans, they cannot sweat to cool down and rely on panting and limited sweat glands in their paws. In a hot car, they can quickly become overwhelmed by the heat.

2. Heatstroke

Pets can suffer from heatstroke much faster than humans. Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse. Heatstroke in pets can be fatal within minutes if not addressed immediately.

3. Permanent Organ Damage

Even if a pet survives heatstroke, it can suffer permanent organ damage. The kidneys, liver, heart, and brain are particularly vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.

Preventive Measures

1. Never Leave Children or Pets in the Car

Even a few minutes in a hot car can be dangerous. If you need to leave the vehicle, take your children and pets with you. It’s not worth the risk.

2. Use Sunshades and Window Tinting

Sunshades and window tinting can help reduce the temperature inside your car. While they don’t make it completely safe to leave people or pets in the car, they can help protect items from heat damage.

3. Store Valuables Properly

Avoid leaving valuables in your car, especially during hot weather. If you must leave items in the car, store them in the trunk or cover them with a blanket to shield them from direct sunlight.

4. Educate Others

Spread awareness about the dangers of leaving children, pets, and items in hot vehicles. Educate friends, family, and community members to help prevent heat-related tragedies.

The heat of summer can turn a parked car into a deadly environment in a matter of minutes. The dangers extend beyond just discomfort, posing serious risks to electronic devices, food, medications, and most critically, to the lives of people and pets. By taking preventive measures and staying vigilant, we can ensure that summer remains a season of fun and relaxation, rather than one marked by preventable tragedies. Stay safe and cool this summer!

The post What Does the Chicago Hot Weather Do to Your Vehicle? appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Engine Oil and Fluids

• Oil Change: Ensure your engine oil is at the right level and has been recently changed. Fresh oil reduces engine wear and improves performance.
• Coolant: Check the coolant level and top it up if necessary. Proper coolant levels prevent the engine from overheating, which is especially important in hot weather.
• Brake Fluid: Make sure the brake fluid is at the proper level. Low brake fluid can lead to reduced braking efficiency.
• Transmission Fluid: Check the transmission fluid to ensure smooth gear shifts.
• Windshield Washer Fluid: Fill up the washer fluid reservoir to keep your windshield clean for clear visibility.

Tires and Brakes

• Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure, including the spare tire. Properly inflated tires improve fuel efficiency and handling.
• Tire Tread: Inspect the tire tread for wear and tear. Bald tires can be dangerous, especially on wet roads.
• Alignment and Balancing: Ensure your tires are properly aligned and balanced to avoid uneven wear and improve driving comfort.
• Brake Pads and Rotors: Inspect the brake pads and rotors for wear. Replacing worn-out brake pads can prevent rotor damage and ensure effective braking.

Battery and Electrical System

• Battery Health: Check the battery terminals for corrosion and ensure they are tightly connected. If your battery is more than a few years old, consider having it tested or replaced.
• Lights: Test all lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals. Replace any burnt-out bulbs.

Belts and Hoses

• Inspect Belts: Check the condition of the engine belts for signs of cracking or wear. Replacing worn belts can prevent breakdowns.
• Hoses: Examine the hoses for leaks, cracks, or bulges. Ensure they are securely connected and in good condition.

Air Conditioning System

• Check A/C Functionality: Test your air conditioning system to ensure it’s working properly. A well-functioning A/C is crucial for comfort during hot summer days.
• Refrigerant: If the A/C is not cooling as it should, we can check the system and recommend servicing if necessary.

Filters

• Air Filter: Check and replace the engine air filter if it’s dirty. A clean air filter improves engine performance and fuel efficiency.
• Cabin Air Filter: Replace the cabin air filter to ensure clean air inside the vehicle, which is especially important for long trips.

Preparing your vehicle for a summer road trip with a thorough check-up from My Mechanic is essential for a safe journey. With our digital inspection system, you can minimize the risk of breakdowns and ensure that your adventure goes smoothly. So, get your vehicle ready, plan your route, and hit the road confidently, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to keep yourself and your passengers safe. Happy travels!

The post Check-Up for Your Vehicle Before Summer Road Trips appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

Perhaps you had considered a road trip this summer but wonder if high gas prices might cause you to have another staycation this year?

Don’t worry! You can still enjoy a road trip this summer and not pay through the nose! Keep reading and discover our best tips for saving on gas, as well as fantastic national parks that are closer than you might think.

Top Tips for Saving Gas

Saving gas is always a hot topic whenever gas prices climb. You can help keep your fuel costs as low as possible by using the following tips and advice:

1. Consider an Electric Vehicle
If you’ve already been thinking about trading in your old car, consider whether or not an electric vehicle can save you money. You’ll need to know how much per kilowatt-hour your electric company charges and how many hours your selected vehicle costs you to recharge it. You should also know how many miles the vehicle will go in between charges. If your chosen vehicle only goes 100 miles but you commute 55 miles each way, unless you can charge it near your work, you should choose another vehicle.

It’s interesting to note that a study from the US Department of Energy found that electric car owners saved as much as $14,500 on fuel costs if they keep an electric vehicle for 15 years. That’s just short of $1,000 a year, but it might be more since this study was done in 2019 when gas prices were lower than they are now.

Some locations, such as hotels or grocery stores, offer free charging when you solicit their business. Taking advantage of these can add to your savings.

2. Properly Maintain Your Vehicle
Too many people do limited or no maintenance on a vehicle until it breaks down. Simple maintenance such as tune-ups, tire rotation, keeping the proper air pressure in your tires, changing to synthetic oil, changing the air filter regularly, and following the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule will go a long way towards making your car more fuel-efficient.

The experts at My Mechanic can perform all of the above and show you how to properly maintain tire pressure. Call us today about our monthly special offers.

3. Monitor Your Driving Habits
The fact is that the faster you drive, the more gas your car will use. Observe speed limits and avoid rabbit starts from a dead stop. Using cruise control on long drives will help save gas by avoiding fluctuations in speed. Use the “fast pass” lanes on toll roads. These help to eliminate slowing down or stopping to pay cash. Also, remember to avoid excessive idling. A good rule of thumb is that if your vehicle will be idling for one minute or less, leave the car running. If it is idling for more than one minute, turn off the motor.

4. Driver Smarter
If you have more than one vehicle, use the smallest vehicle/engine for the job. For example, if you are a solo commuter and own both a V-8 SUV and a sub-compact car, take the sub-compact. If you are running errands, drive a circular route so that you don’t backtrack. When possible, drive to a central location and walk to your errands.

5. Check Prices Before You Fill Up
Using an app such as Gas Buddy can help you keep track of where prices are lowest. Even 2 cents difference per gallon will make a difference over time, especially when you have a 25 -gallon gas tank to fill!

Small steps like these can make a huge difference in your gas mileage and the price you pay for fuel.

The Road Trip is Still On!

If you thought that high gas prices would make a summer road trip impossible, check out these three national parks. All are within a 3-hour drive from Chicago and are filled with fun activities for the whole family.

1. Indiana Dunes National Park
A mere 60-minute drive from Chicago, if you haven’t been here, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.

This national park has some of the most challenging hiking terrain in the Midwest. With beautiful views of Lake Michigan, you’ll see plenty of ponds, black oak forests, swamps, and dunes that make up a sandy beach. You can stop at the Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville for some sweet treats or rent a beach house in New Buffalo, Michigan, and watch the kids play on the playground.

2. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
A short 2-hour drive will transport you back in time to when much of North America lay underneath a huge ice glacier.

If you’ve got children who love dinosaurs, mammoths, and saber-tooth cats, this is the perfect summer vacation trip.

There is a hiking trail that traces the glacier’s edge, along with nature walks, camping, biking, and horseback riding.

The kids will love seeing the local wildlife and shooting stars at night while eating s’mores and telling ghost stories by the fire.

3. I & M Canal National Heritage Park
This little jewel is just short of a 2-hour drive from Chicago and there is so much to see here, that you’ll want to spend more time than you had originally planned.

Back in 1848, a 96-mile canal (all dug by hand) was created to connect the heartland to New York and New Orleans. This canal was used by Native Americans, French fur traders, pioneers, and more.

Today, this area includes the Isle a la Cache Museum, the Reddick Mansion, the Navy Pier, along with the I&M Canal Visitor Center, where you can take a mule-pulled boat trip down the canal.

Mom and dad can relax at some of the delightful restaurants, such as the Tallgrass restaurant or Nick’s Tavern, while the kids check out the Chicagoland Speedway or Lemont Quarry.

There are so many terrific things to see and do that are very close to home. Plan your road trip and see the beauty of our national parks this year!

My Mechanic is Here for You

At least two weeks before your trip, make an appointment for a summertime check-up with My Mechanic.

We will be happy to inspect your vehicle, do any required service, and let you know if we see anything that might need replacing, such as belts, hoses, tires, or other items.

Nothing will spoil a road trip faster than a breakdown, so a summer safety inspection is one of the cheapest ways to ensure your peace of mind this year.

Call us for an appointment today so you won’t be sorry tomorrow.

Safe travels and enjoy your summer!

The post Higher Gas Prices and Summer Road Trips appeared first on My Mechanic Inc. | Elmhurst - Clarendon Hills Auto Repair Experts.

The truth, however, is that there are multiple aspects and questions about changing the oil on your ride than meet the eye.

Perhaps the biggest three questions that the mechanics at My Mechanic hear most often include the three W’s- When, What, and Who.

The Three Big W’s

You may not give your car’s oil a second thought, but when people do, they frequently ask:

1. When does the oil in my car need to be changed?
The answer to this one isn’t as simple as it might sound. Sure, you can always go with the oil manufacturer’s recommended mileage, or you could follow your car manufacturer’s recommended mileage or you could follow the advice you get from your dad, aunt, or grandparents but when all three answers are different ones, which do you choose as the right one?

Pre-2000, the recommended mileage for oil changes was 3,500 miles but is this necessary? Today’s modern engines frequently use synthetic oil or a synthetic blend and if you read the owner’s manual, chances are that it says 5,000-7,500 miles.

Some vehicles even have oil change indicators, which rely on the mileage interval pre-programmed at the factor combined with your mileage.

Which is the right number? Generally speaking, if you don’t drive in extreme conditions, then 5,000 to 7,500 is usually a good indicator. The same is true if you use a synthetic or a synthetic blend. If the oil manufacturer says to change the oil every 15,000, then chances are that you can rely on that mileage.

What are extreme conditions? If you run a lot of short errands or drive less than 10 miles before you shut off the engine, if you live in an area that is very dusty or muddy, if you do deliveries and turn the car off and on frequently or if you drive in very hot weather, your usage is considered extreme and oil changes should be done more frequently.

Still confused? Stop by My Mechanic and talk to one of our experts about what type of mileage you can expect to get out of an oil change based on the age of your vehicle and your driving habits.

2. What type of oil should I use in my car?
First, check the owner’s manual to see what type of oil the manufacturer recommends. Even if your vehicle uses conventional motor oil, you still have the option of using synthetic oil or a synthetic blend.

Not sure what those are? Let’s look at the 4 basic types of engine oil:

• Conventional: This oil comes to us via refined crude oil. It’s inexpensive but it doesn’t last as long, nor does it do well in high temps.
• Synthetic: Full synthetic engine oil is an artificial oil but it offers more protection than conventional oils. This is the most expensive oil and it has superior engine wear protection, it performs well even in extremely high heat, and it is much more durable than conventional oils. Some synthetic oils claim to last 25,000 miles.
• Synthetic Blend: This mixture tries to offer the best of both worlds by mixing conventional oil and synthetic oil. This gives your vehicle some of the benefits of synthetic oil but at a lower cost.
• High Mileage: This oil is designed to meet the needs of vehicles that have more than 75,000 miles on the odometer. This type of oil is a bit more expensive than conventional oils due to the high number of additives.

What type of oil should you use in your vehicle? This will depend on what the manufacturer recommends, your driving habits, and what you are willing to pay.

If you use your vehicle for towing or hauling very heavy items frequently, if you live in an area that is very dusty or dirty, your vehicle might benefit from synthetic oil.

3. Who should change the oil?
This seems like a no-brainer, but the answer isn’t as obvious as it might appear.

The perfect person to change the oil in your vehicle is an ASE-certified mechanic who will not just change the oil and filter, but someone who will inspect your vehicle for any possible problems while they are doing this job.

Oh yes, and let’s not forget that this person needs to have a place to dispose of the used oil that is environmentally friendly.

An ASE-certified mechanic, like the ones here at My Mechanic, will inspect the air filters, tire pressure, belts, and hoses, to name a few.

You might be shocked at the number of people who avoid breakdowns and the costly consequences of breaking down at certain times simply because a mechanic spotted a problem as they were changing the oil.

You can trust the experts at My Mechanic to give your car a thorough once over to ensure that everything appears to be In good working order.

That’s the peace of mind that every driver wants, right? Knowing that your vehicle is in the best possible condition and ready for whatever lies ahead.

The Oil Change Habit That Can Boost Mileage

Synthetic oil allows for lower viscosity and still protects from wear and better cold flow than conventional oils. This can lead to increased fuel economy.

Since synthetic oil is more “slippery”, it reduces friction inside the motor. If you can imagine sliding on the ice on a piece of plastic or sliding on a waxed piece of plastic, you can picture how the more slippery waxed plastic will go faster.

Of course, bad driving habits can offset any mileage benefits of synthetic oil, but most people experience enough of a difference in their MPG that once they try synthetic oil, they stick with it.

The Bottom Line

While synthetic motor oils hold up better for more miles, they do cost more and no oil will last forever.

Getting regular oil changes is what is important and you can ask the pros at My Mechanic when you should get your next oil change if you are unsure.

Is it almost time for your next service? Call the friendly staff at My Mechanic right now for an appointment. You can enjoy peace of mind knowing your ride has been approved for that road trip you’ve been thinking about.

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