Summertime means roads trips and carefree vacations, but it can also mean harsh driving conditions for your car.  Just as essential as preparing your car for the nasty elements of winter is getting it ready for the extremes that come along with the summer season.  Taking a few simple precautions can keep your vehicle running and looking great, no matter what time of year.

1. Check the Battery:  You might be worried about your car not starting in the dead of winter, but extreme heat is also a serious threat to battery life.  Get your battery tested at Rogers Auto Group's award-winning service department or a service center near you, especially if it's more than 3 years old.

2.  Change Your Oil and Check Your Fluids:  If your summer plans include a lot of road trips, be sure your oil is changed on schedule, roughly every 3,000 miles.  While you're at it, have your car's fluid levels checked. Extreme heat can affect viscosity and functionality of an engine's fluids, so it's important to make sure your vehicle is fully stocked and protected.

3. Check the Cooling and A/C Systems:  No one wants to be stuck on a hot day with a broken air conditioning system, and even more important is the system keeping your car's engine cool.  The number one cause of summer breakdowns is overheating, so be sure to get your cooling systems checked to avoid being stranded on the side of the road in the blazing sun.

4. Check Your Tires:  Summer heat can do a number on your tires.  Look out for cracks and wear and be sure your tires are properly inflated since high temperate can cause air pressure to rise.  It's smart in any season to have your tires rotated and balanced regularly to maximize fuel economy and vehicle safety.

5. Protect the Looks:  Aside from keeping your car running well in the summer, you want to keep it looking good.  Give it a thorough wash to rid it of the winter salt, apply a coat of wax for extra protection, and try to park in the shade to prevent your paint finish from fading.  And don't forget about the interior.  If you have leather seats, applying a leather conditioner can help prevent cracks in your upholstery. Using a windshield sun shade can also go a long way to protecting your car's interior.