Best Coolants and Fluids for Summer Driving

As temperatures rise and summer driving season begins, it's important to ensure your vehicle is ready for the heat. Warm weather, long drives, and stop-and-go traffic can all put extra strain on your engine and vehicle systems. One of the most important steps you can take to protect your car during the summer months is making sure it has the right fluids—clean, topped-off, and optimized for high-temperature performance.

 

At Kunes Auto Group, we’re committed to helping our customers drive with confidence all year long. Whether you're heading out on a road trip or commuting in the heat, here’s everything you need to know about the best coolants and fluids for summer driving.

One of the most important fluids in your vehicle, engine coolant—also known as antifreeze—plays a major role in regulating engine temperature. While it's commonly associated with winter driving, coolant is absolutely vital during summer. It circulates through the engine and radiator to draw heat away, helping to prevent overheating and costly engine damage.

 

Recommended Coolants for Summer:

 

• Prestone 50/50 Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant: A reliable, ready-to-use formula that works in nearly all makes and models. It’s easy to use and offers strong protection in extreme temperatures.
• Zerex G-05 by Valvoline: Especially recommended for European vehicles and many newer models, this long-life coolant offers excellent corrosion protection.

What to Watch For:

 

Check your coolant level regularly, and examine its color and clarity. If the coolant appears rusty, murky, or contaminated, it may be time for a flush and replacement. Over time, coolant can break down and lose its effectiveness, which increases the risk of overheating.

Hot weather causes your engine to run at higher temperatures, which can thin out old or worn motor oil. Thinner oil may not provide sufficient lubrication, leading to increased friction, wear, and even engine failure in extreme cases. Using high-quality oil with the right viscosity is crucial during the summer months.

 

Top Motor Oil Picks for Summer:

 

• Mobil 1 Extended Performance Full Synthetic 5W-30 or 10W-30: This synthetic oil delivers excellent protection in extreme heat and helps extend engine life between oil changes.
• Valvoline Advanced Full Synthetic: Offers superior wear protection and high-temperature stability, making it a great choice for summer driving.

When to Change It:

 

Always follow your manufacturer’s oil change intervals, but if your vehicle will be exposed to heavy driving or high temperatures, consider getting an oil change before a long summer trip. Kunes Auto Group service centers are always available to perform a quick and professional oil change using the best products for your specific vehicle.

Transmission fluid not only lubricates the gears and components inside your transmission, but it also acts as a coolant. High temperatures can break down transmission fluid over time, leading to gear slipping, sluggish shifting, or worse.
Recommended Transmission Fluids:
Castrol Transmax Full Synthetic Multi-Vehicle ATF: A versatile and heat-resistant transmission fluid compatible with a wide range of vehicles.

Valvoline MaxLife Multi-Vehicle ATF: Designed for high-mileage vehicles, it offers enhanced performance and protection in extreme heat.

Why It Matters:
 If your summer plans include towing a camper, boat, or heavy gear, your transmission will be under more stress than usual. Make sure your fluid is clean and at the proper level, and consider a fluid change if your last service was more than 30,000 to 60,000 miles ago.

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that enables your brake system to function effectively. During hot weather or heavy driving, brake fluid can absorb moisture and degrade, reducing braking performance and responsiveness. This is especially critical during summer driving when stop-and-go traffic or mountain descents can lead to brake fade.
Recommended Brake Fluids:
Bosch ESI6 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid: Formulated for longer life and higher boiling points.

ATE Type 200 Brake Fluid: Known for its consistent performance in high-heat driving situations.

Maintenance Tip:
 Most manufacturers recommend replacing brake fluid every two to three years. If your fluid is dark in color or if your brakes feel spongy, schedule a brake fluid inspection or replacement at your nearest Kunes Auto Group service center.

Summer means bugs, pollen, and road dust—especially on long road trips. Keeping your windshield clean is both a comfort and safety issue. A high-quality washer fluid ensures you maintain visibility no matter what the road throws your way.
Top Summer Washer Fluids:
Rain-X Bug Remover Windshield Washer Fluid: Designed to break down bug residue and road grime, making it easier to wipe away.

Prestone Summer Formula: This version includes water-beading technology and additional cleaners for improved visibility in hot weather conditions.

Don’t Use Water Alone:
 While it might be tempting to just top off with water, especially in warm weather, water lacks the cleaning power and anti-evaporation properties of proper washer fluid—and it can still freeze if temperatures drop unexpectedly.

At Kunes Auto Group, we know how important vehicle maintenance is—especially when the temperatures soar. The right fluids can make all the difference between a smooth summer ride and a roadside emergency.

 

Our certified technicians are ready to check your vehicle’s fluids, perform a full inspection, and ensure you’re ready for every summer mile. Whether you're heading out on a cross-country road trip or just driving across town, we’re here to keep your car running cool and safe.

 

Schedule your summer service today at any of our Kunes Auto Group locations and hit the road with confidence.