Summer in Missouri means high temperatures, spontaneous road trips, and more time spent behind the wheel. But as the temperatures rise, so does the risk of car trouble. We know exactly how the summer heat affects your vehicle—and we’re here to help you stay safe, cool, and road-ready. As one of the most trusted auto repair shops serving Winchester, Ballwin, Chesterfield, and the surrounding West County communities, our team is ready to tackle these five common summer car problems with reliable auto repair services you can count on.

1. Overheating Engines

Nothing ends a summer drive faster than steam coming from your hood. High heat can push your cooling system to its limits, and if your coolant is low or your radiator is struggling, you’re at risk for overheating.

How to Prevent This:
Schedule seasonal cooling system checks, top off your coolant, and have your radiator and thermostat inspected regularly. Preventive maintenance helps avoid engine damage and roadside breakdowns.

2. Worn Brakes from Increased Travel

Summer often means longer drives, road trips, and more stop-and-go traffic. That all adds up to extra wear on your brakes. If your car squeaks, grinds, or feels soft when you stop, it’s time to visit your nearest auto mechanic.

How to Prevent This:
Have your brakes inspected before peak travel months begin. Catching pad wear early and maintaining proper brake fluid levels helps ensure safe, responsive stops all season long.

3. Weak Air Conditioning

There’s nothing worse than a car that can’t keep up with the summer heat. If your A/C is blowing warm air or making odd noises, it may need more than just a recharge.

How to Prevent This:
Don’t wait for the first 90-degree day—get your A/C system inspected in early spring. Checking refrigerant levels and inspecting for leaks or worn components can prevent mid-summer breakdowns.

4. Battery Failures in the Heat

Summer heat can actually be more damaging to your battery than winter cold. It causes the fluid inside to evaporate, which can weaken its ability to hold a charge.

How to Prevent This:
Have your battery tested during routine service appointments. Clean any corrosion on terminals and consider replacing older batteries before extreme heat kicks in.

5. Tire Trouble on Hot Pavement

High temperatures can increase tire pressure, which leads to quicker wear and a greater risk of blowouts—especially during long drives or on hot asphalt.

How to Prevent This:
Check tire pressure monthly and inspect tread depth for wear. Regular rotations and timely replacements help maintain traction and safety on hot summer roads.

Your Winchester Auto Repair Experts

Complete Auto Repair proudly serves drivers throughout West County. As a family-owned shop with over 300 five-star reviews, we’re committed to honest, high-quality work and dependable customer service. From routine maintenance to summer-specific concerns, we’re your go-to source for auto repair services done right—and backed by our 3-year/36,000-mile nationwide warranty.

Schedule Your Summer Service Today

Don’t let the heat catch you off guard. Get ahead of seasonal issues. Schedule your appointment at Complete Auto Repair in Winchester today and enjoy every mile this summer.

Stay cool. Stay safe. Stay on the road.