Summer Heat and Your Car: What Inland Empire Drivers Need to Know About AC, Tires, and Coolant 

Summer in the Inland Empire can be tough on both drivers and their vehicles. With temperatures frequently climbing into the 90s and even triple digits throughout Ontario, Rancho Cucamonga, Riverside, and surrounding communities, your vehicle works much harder than it does during cooler months. 

Extreme heat can impact everything from your air conditioning system and battery to tire pressure and engine cooling performance. Without proper preparation, summer temperatures can increase the risk of breakdowns, poor fuel economy, and expensive repairs. 

Understanding the basics of hot weather car maintenance can help keep your vehicle running efficiently all summer long. 

This guide covers everything Inland Empire drivers need to know about summer vehicle maintenance in Ontario, CA, including AC performance, tire pressure in hot weather, coolant maintenance, and how to prevent car overheating in summer. 

Why Summer Heat Is Hard on Vehicles 

Southern California Temperatures Create Extra Stress 

When outside temperatures climb above 90 degrees, several vehicle systems experience increased strain. 

These include: 

• Air conditioning systems  

• Engine cooling systems  

• Tires  

• Batteries  

• Engine oil and fluids  

Vehicles parked in direct sunlight can experience interior temperatures exceeding 130 degrees, while engine compartments often operate at significantly higher temperatures. 

Air Conditioning Maintenance: Stay Comfortable During Inland Empire Summers 

How Your AC System Works 

Your vehicle's air conditioning system relies on several components working together: 

• Compressor  

• Condenser  

• Evaporator  

• Refrigerant lines  

• Cabin air filter  

When temperatures rise, the AC system must work continuously to keep the cabin comfortable. 

Signs Your AC Needs Service 

One of the most important aspects of summer vehicle maintenance in Ontario, CA is recognizing early warning signs. 

Common symptoms include: 

Weak Airflow 

If air barely comes through the vents, the issue could involve: 

• A clogged cabin air filter  

• Failing blower motor  

• Airflow restrictions  

Warm Air Instead of Cold Air 

This may indicate: 

• Low refrigerant levels  

• Compressor issues  

• Leaks within the system  

Unusual Noises 

Grinding, squealing, or rattling noises when the AC is running should be inspected promptly. 

Replace Your Cabin Air Filter 

Many drivers overlook this simple maintenance item. 

Benefits include: 

• Improved airflow  

• Better cooling performance  

• Cleaner cabin air  

• Reduced strain on the AC system  

Replacing a cabin air filter is often one of the easiest and most affordable summer maintenance services. 

Ontario Auto Center | Service and Maintenance  

Tire Pressure in Hot Weather 

Why Heat Affects Tire Pressure 

One of the most overlooked aspects of hot weather car maintenance is monitoring tire pressure. 

As temperatures increase, air inside the tires expands. 

A common rule is: 

• Tire pressure increases approximately 1 PSI for every 10-degree temperature increase  

This means a tire properly inflated during spring may become overinflated during summer. 

Risks of Improper Tire Pressure 

Overinflated Tires 

Too much pressure can lead to: 

• Reduced traction  

• Uneven tire wear  

• Rougher ride quality  

• Increased risk of tire damage  

Underinflated Tires 

Too little pressure can cause: 

• Poor fuel economy  

• Excessive heat buildup  

• Premature tire wear  

• Increased blowout risk  

Check Tire Pressure Regularly 

During summer months, experts recommend checking tire pressure at least once per month. 

Always check pressure when tires are cold for the most accurate reading. 

The recommended PSI can typically be found: 

• Inside the driver's door jamb  

• In the owner's manual  

Tire Maintenance for Road Trips 

Before summer vacations or weekend getaways: 

• Inspect tread depth  

• Look for sidewall damage  

• Check for uneven wear  

• Verify tire pressure  

These simple steps can help reduce the risk of roadside issues during hot weather. 

Prevent Car Overheating in Summer 

Understanding Your Cooling System 

Your vehicle's cooling system helps regulate engine temperature. 

Key components include: 

• Radiator  

• Coolant  

• Water pump  

• Thermostat  

• Cooling fans  

When temperatures rise, these parts become even more important. 

Warning Signs of Overheating 

Every driver should know how to identify overheating symptoms. 

Rising Temperature Gauge 

If the gauge moves toward the red zone, your engine may be overheating. 

Steam from the Hood 

This is one of the clearest signs that immediate attention is needed. 

Coolant Leaks 

Bright green, orange, pink, or yellow fluid underneath the vehicle may indicate a coolant leak. 

Reduced Performance 

Engines often reduce power when temperatures become excessive. 

How to Prevent Car Overheating in Summer 

One of the best ways to prevent car overheating in summer is through proactive maintenance. 

Check Coolant Levels 

Coolant is essential for controlling engine temperature. 

Low coolant levels reduce the system's ability to dissipate heat effectively. 

Inspect Hoses and Belts 

Heat accelerates wear on rubber components. 

Look for: 

• Cracks  

• Soft spots  

• Leaks  

Service Cooling Components 

Radiators, water pumps, and thermostats should be inspected during routine maintenance intervals. 

Ontario Auto Center | Service Centers 

Summer Fuel Economy Tips 

Heat Can Impact MPG 

While summer fuel economy often improves compared to winter, excessive heat can still reduce efficiency. 

Contributing factors include: 

• Constant AC use  

• Underinflated tires  

• Heavy cargo loads  

• Increased engine strain  

Fuel-Efficient Vehicles for Inland Empire Drivers 

Many drivers choose efficient vehicles to help offset rising fuel costs during summer travel. 

Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 

The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid remains one of the most efficient SUVs available with up to an EPA estimated 41 city MPG, 38 highway MPG, and 39 combined MPG depending on configuration. 

Honda Accord Hybrid 

The Honda Accord Hybrid offers excellent fuel efficiency for commuters with up to an EPA estimated 51 city MPG, 44 highway MPG, and 48 combined MPG in select trims. 

Hyundai Elantra Hybrid 

The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid delivers impressive efficiency for daily driving with up to an EPA estimated 53 city MPG, 56 highway MPG, and 54 combined MPG depending on trim. 

Ontario Auto Center | Inventory 

Battery Maintenance During Summer 

Why Heat Is Harder on Batteries Than Cold 

Many drivers associate battery failures with winter, but summer heat can be more damaging. 

Extreme temperatures accelerate chemical reactions inside the battery, which can shorten lifespan. 

Signs of Battery Trouble 

Watch for: 

• Slow engine cranking  

• Dim headlights  

• Warning lights  

• Electrical issues  

If your battery is more than three years old, summer is an excellent time for a battery inspection. 

Protecting Your Vehicle's Interior 

Sun Damage Is Real 

Southern California sun exposure can damage: 

• Dashboard surfaces  

• Leather seats  

• Plastic trim  

• Steering wheels  

Over time, UV rays can cause cracking, fading, and premature wear. 

Simple Ways to Protect Your Interior 

Use a Windshield Sunshade 

Sunshades help reduce cabin temperatures significantly. 

Park in Covered Areas 

Whenever possible: 

• Use garages  

• Park under structures  

• Seek shaded parking  

Apply Interior Protectants 

UV protectants help preserve dashboards and trim surfaces. 

Summer Road Trip Checklist 

Before heading out on a summer adventure, inspect the following: 

Fluids 

• Coolant  

• Oil  

• Brake fluid  

• Windshield washer fluid  

Tires 

• Pressure  

• Tread depth  

• Overall condition  

Air Conditioning 

• Cooling performance  

• Cabin air filter  

Battery 

• Terminals  

• Voltage  

• Corrosion  

Emergency Supplies 

• Water  

• Flashlight  

• Jumper cables  

• First aid kit  

These simple checks can help avoid unexpected breakdowns during summer travel. 

Why Summer Maintenance Matters for Long-Term Vehicle Health 

Routine maintenance does more than prevent breakdowns. 

It also helps: 

• Improve reliability  

• Protect resale value  

• Enhance fuel economy  

• Extend component life  

Vehicles that receive regular maintenance generally perform better and experience fewer costly repairs over time. 

Ontario Auto Center | Inventory  

Ontario Auto Center | Service  

Final Thoughts 

Summer temperatures throughout the Inland Empire create unique challenges for vehicles. Understanding hot weather car maintenance, monitoring tire pressure in hot weather, maintaining your cooling system, and knowing how to prevent car overheating in summer can help keep your vehicle reliable during the hottest months of the year. 

By taking a proactive approach to summer vehicle maintenance Ontario CA, drivers can reduce the risk of breakdowns, improve fuel economy, and enjoy safer travel throughout Southern California. 

Before your next summer road trip, visit Ontario Auto Center to schedule maintenance, explore fuel-efficient vehicles, and ensure your car is ready for the heat ahead.

Ontario Auto Center | Contact Us 

Tips for Finding a Reliable Used Car 

Buying a used car can be one of the smartest financial decisions you make if you know what to look for. Whether you’re shopping for your first vehicle, upgrading your daily driver, or searching for something dependable for your teen, the key is finding the right mix of value, quality, and peace of mind.

At Ontario Auto Center, we understand that purchasing a pre-owned vehicle is a big decision. With so many options and dealerships to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together some simple and practical tips to help you find a used car that’s not only affordable, but reliable for years to come. 

Start With a Realistic Budget

Before you start test-driving, take some time to figure out how much you can comfortably afford. A good guideline is to keep your total car expenses around 20% of your monthly take-home pay. That includes things like the car payment, insurance, fuel, and maintenance.

Once you have that number in mind, stick to it. Having a clear budget helps you focus your search and avoid getting drawn into cars that are outside your range. Keep in mind that buying used means you can often get a higher trim level or extra features for less money than buying new.

Research Reliable Makes and Models

Not all cars age the same. Some brands and models are known for long-term dependability, while others might require more maintenance as they get older. Spend a little time researching which vehicles are known for reliability.

Websites like Kelley Blue Book, Edmunds, and J.D. Power release annual reliability scores and owner satisfaction reports. You can also check online forums or talk to friends and family who have owned the same car you’re considering.

At Ontario Auto Center, we carry a wide range of used vehicles from trusted brands like Honda, Toyota, Ford, Nissan, and Volkswagen, Fiat, Jeep, BMW, Hyundai, Lexus, Volvo, MINI, Subaru, Dodge, Chrysler, and Ram. You’ll also find Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles that come with manufacturer-backed warranties, giving you extra peace of mind.

Always Check the Vehicle History Report

A vehicle’s history can tell you more than meets the eye. Before making any decisions, ask for a vehicle history report from services like Carfax or AutoCheck. This report includes important details such as:

• Previous owners

• Accident and repair history

• Service and maintenance records

• Title status (clean, salvage, or rebuilt)

At Ontario Auto Center, every pre-owned vehicle comes with a full history report. That way, you can see exactly what kind of care the car has received and feel confident about your purchase.

Inspect and Test Drive the Car Thoroughly

A visual inspection and test drive can reveal a lot about a car’s condition. Even if a vehicle looks great online, you won’t really know how it feels until you’re behind the wheel.

When inspecting a car, check for signs of wear such as rust, dents, or mismatched paint that could indicate past repairs. Inside, look for any tears, stains, or unusual odors. Pay attention to how the car starts, accelerates, and brakes during your test drive.

Listen for any strange noises and make sure all features work properly, including the air conditioning, infotainment system, and safety sensors. If something feels off, don’t be afraid to ask questions. A reputable dealer will be transparent about the car’s condition.

Have a Mechanic Inspect It

Even if you’re buying from a trusted dealership, getting a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic can provide extra reassurance. A professional can check for issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye, such as engine leaks, worn-out parts, or hidden damage.

Many dealerships, including Ontario Auto Center, perform multi-point inspections before selling any used car. But if you want that second opinion, it’s worth the small investment. A quick inspection could save you from costly repairs later.

Compare Prices and Shop Around

Once you’ve found a few cars you like, take time to compare prices. Check similar listings in your area to see what the average market value is. Tools like Kelley Blue Book’s “Fair Purchase Price” or Edmunds’ “True Market Value” can help you make sure you’re getting a fair deal.

Ontario Auto Center makes comparison shopping easy because all of our dealerships are in one convenient location. You can browse and test drive vehicles from multiple brands in a single visit without having to drive all over town.

Review the Warranty and Return Policy

Before you finalize any deal, review the warranty coverage and return policy. Certified Pre-Owned vehicles often come with extended warranties that cover specific components for a certain number of miles or years.

Even for non-certified cars, many dealerships offer limited warranties or short-term return windows. Understanding what’s covered will give you more peace of mind after the purchase.

Don’t Forget About Financing Options 

Buying used doesn’t mean you have to pay cash. Dealerships like Ontario Auto Center offer flexible financing optionsfor pre-owned vehicles, often with competitive interest rates.

Getting pre-approved for a loan can help you know your budget upfront and streamline the buying process. You can also explore trade-in options to lower your down payment. If you already own a vehicle, our team can provide a fair appraisal so you can apply that value toward your next car.

Look for Signs of Consistent Maintenance

A reliable used car usually comes from an owner who took care of it. When reviewing service records or talking to the dealer, look for consistent oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections. A well-documented maintenance history shows that the car was properly cared for and less likely to have hidden problems. 

At Ontario Auto Center, we carefully inspect all our pre-owned vehicles and ensure that maintenance records are available whenever possible. That transparency is part of what keeps our customers coming back. 

Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your gut. If a deal seems too good to be true, or if you feel pressured into buying before you’re ready, take a step back. A reputable dealership will let you take your time, answer your questions honestly, and never rush your decision. 

When you shop at Ontario Auto Center, our goal is to make sure you feel confident and comfortable every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for a compact sedan, a family SUV, or a dependable truck, our friendly sales team is here to help you find a vehicle that fits your needs and budget. 

Find Your Ride at Ontario Auto Center! 

Finding a reliable used car doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little research, a clear budget, and a trustworthy dealership, you can enjoy all the benefits of owning a great pre-owned vehicle.

Visit Ontario Auto Center to explore our wide selection of used and Certified Pre-Owned cars, trucks, and SUVs. We’re proud to serve drivers throughout the Inland Empire, including Ontario, Riverside, Rancho Cucamonga, and beyond. Stop by today or browse our inventory online to start your journey toward a vehicle you can count on.

April is National Car Care Month!

Regular maintenance and car care is an important part of vehicle ownership. Setting time aside for some car care can help keep your vehicle in good running order, identify any trouble areas in advance and even potentially reduce future expenses by taking care of any found issues before they become a bigger problem. Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition, and it applies to your car as well!

Here Are Some Spring Car Care Tips to Celebrate

Check and replace wiper blades
You might be thinking this is a waste of time, after all, winter is over. Even if it doesn’t rain, having wiper blades that work is important to ensure you always have the best visibility. If something gets on your windshield you need to be able to clean it off for a clear view of the road.

Check lights
Have someone help you confirm that all your lights are in good working order. This includes front headlights, taillights, brake lights and turn signals.

Check your oil and get an oil change if needed
Pop the hood and check your oil using the dipstick to assess fill level and degree of wear. If needed, be sure to get an oil change. Newer cars will have an oil life monitoring system with a dashboard alert, but for an older vehicle, you may want to keep track of your months and mileage to follow the maker’s recommendation.

Check tire pressure, tread and sidewalls
Making sure your tires are in good shape is an important safety step. You’ll want to check the tire pressure and if they are low, fill them to the proper PSI. Examine tread depth with the penny test. If your tread is below Lincoln’s head, it’s time for new tires. Also, look for any abnormal wear on the tread and sidewalls.

Inspect battery
Pop the hood and do a visual examination of your car’s battery. Make sure there are no signs of corrosion (this can look like white or green foam) and that the connections are tight. Be careful not to touch any corrosion or to connect both terminals. If needed, clean off corrosion safely to make sure you’re getting the best performance out of your battery.

Take a peek under the hood
Since you’re here, take a visual inspection of everything under the hood. Do you see any low fluid levels, leaks or rips/tears in your belts or hoses? If you feel comfortable, you can always top off any fluids on your own. Or, if you see something that you think needs attention, you can take it to your service center for help.

Wash and wax
Now that you’ve checked some of the operational items on your car, it’s time to clean! Your paint job will thank you for a thorough wash and wax. If you feel a lot of impurities in the paint, you can also clay your car before waxing. As long as you’re in a cleaning mood, take time to vacuum your vehicle’s interior and clean your windows inside and out with glass cleaner. There’s definitely a feeling of pride that comes with having a good-looking ride.

Service questions?
If you notice something that needs attention during your spring car care celebration, contact any of our dealerships to learn more about their service departments and how they can help.

What is an Extended Warranty and What Does It Cover?

Whether you’re buying new or used, you’ll most likely have the option of purchasing an extended warranty with your vehicle.

What is an Extended Warranty?

An extended car warranty is a safeguard against unexpected maintenance costs after the manufacturer’s standard warranty is expired. It can be a bit of a gamble depending on if you end up needing the coverage. You pay more upfront or in your monthly payments to get that additional coverage in case something goes wrong. If you do end up with unexpected repairs, it can be quite beneficial to have the extension. You may or may not need the coverage in the end, but an extended warranty provides that safety net upfront just in case.

What Does an Extended Warranty Cover?

Here are some of the different types of coverage you might find with an extended warranty:

OEM parts

Most extended warranties will guarantee the use of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. This means if you purchased a Honda, they will use original Honda parts to make repairs instead of aftermarket parts.

Bumper-To-Bumper

These types of warranties will cover almost anything in the car, not everything, but a lot. Coverage can range from something as complicated as the engine or transmission all the way to interior comforts like seat warmers or navigation.

Years or mileage

Many warranties offer limited coverage based on years or mileage, so an extended warranty could simply be an extension of what was originally offered with the vehicle. Meaning, if your original warranty was like Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain, that means everything in the powertrain would be covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. An extended warranty might just add years or mileage to that original warranty.

Areas Of The Car

Some extended warranties are based on certain areas of the car. For example, you may be able to get an extended powertrain warranty, which will cover things like the engine, transmission, and other areas of the drivetrain. However, this won’t cover other things like interior components, air conditioning, or exterior items like clear coat, paint, and body panels.

Who Should Consider an Extended Warranty?

Here are some points to consider when deciding if you should get an extended warranty:

You drive a lot

If you use your vehicle for work or simply drive a lot, you may want to consider an extended warranty as you’ll likely hit the mileage cap much sooner than other buyers.

You plan on having your car a long time

If you love your new ride and you’re planning on driving it for a long time, it might be worth the peace of mind to invest in the extended warranty.

You’re purchasing used

Depending on the used vehicle you select, there could be the tail end of the manufacturer’s warranty still available, but you might want to spring for the extended warranty just to give yourself some more coverage since you’re just getting the vehicle for yourself.

Warranty questions?

Contact any of our dealerships to learn more about the various extended warranties available for both new and used vehicles.

It’s Safe to Buy a Car – How We’re Protecting Shoppers During COVID

Have you thought about a new car purchase but hesitated due to COVID? Don’t worry! It’s safe to buy a car, and we’re doing everything we can to protect shoppers during this time. Sometimes you can’t wait to purchase your next vehicle, or you might simply want the newest model and features. Either way, we’re here to help and have procedures in place to keep the car shopping experience as safe as possible. Here are just a few of the steps we’ve taken to ensure that both shoppers and dealership staff is safe during this time:

We’re outside – One of the great things about car shopping is that it’s mostly outside. You can feel free to peruse all different makes and models while completely outdoors. With so much natural ventilation you can feel secure as you wander the aisles.

Mask up – We’re asking everyone to wear masks. Both employees and shoppers are asked to properly cover up while on site. That means wearing a mask that fits properly over your nose and under your chin, while also being made of appropriate materials.

Socially distance – While you’re on the lot, we’ll remind everyone to socially distance from other shoppers. Plus, a little space isn’t bad when you’re checking out your new ride and trying to envision yourself on the open road.

We’ll wave – In order to provide a contactless experience, we’re skipping the handshake in favor of a wave, for now. We can’t wait to get back to our normal practices, but until then we’ll say “hello” from six feet away.

Cleaning, cleaning and more cleaning – We’re wiping everything down multiple times a day! From increased bathroom cleanings to making sure every car that’s opened or test-driven is then wiped down, we’re ensuring the cleanest experience possible. This includes all door handles (interior and exterior), steering wheel, radio, seat adjusters, and anything else you’re likely to touch when checking out a car. This also includes frequently touched surfaces in our offices like desks, counters, doorknobs, and even pens!

Test drives on the honor system – That’s right! You can absolutely test drive a car during this time. In fact, we’re simply going to take a copy of your license and proof of insurance and let you head out on your own. There’s no need to pack a sales associate into the vehicle with you, in fact right now it’s safer if we don’t. You’ll breathe easy and enjoy the ride more knowing you’re not in a tight, enclosed space with someone else.

Plexiglass shields – If you do decide to purchase a car, you can do so safely as we’ve installed plexiglass shields at all our employee desks to ensure you’ve got the protection you need while locking in the best deal available.

See you on the lot!

Contact any of our dealerships to learn more about purchasing a new vehicle during COVID.

What to Look for When Purchasing a Used Car

Buying a used car can be very exciting. You get to explore a variety of makes, models, and try and track down the perfect car. When considering how to purchase a used car in Ontario, there are things that can make the process successful. Here are some tips on what to look for when purchasing a used car here in Southern California. 

Do Your Research

Once you know the type of car you’re looking for, do some research. Compare reliability stats and customer reviews on different models. Avoid vehicles with poor reports. Even vehicles with good reliability will likely have in item or two that is known to break or need replacement. Keep these items in mind and ask about them when you look at the car in person.

Inspect the Car Inside and Out

Take a good look at the exterior and interior of the car. Look for rust on the body and underside of the car as well and any evidence of damage. Inside the car, inspect the seats for any holes, tears, or stains. Try operating the radio, the windows, and any other electronic device in the car to make sure everything works.

Take the Used Vehicle Out for a Spin

When you test drive a pre-owned car, you should be able to identify if there are any major mechanical problems. Listen for any unusual noises such as clunks, rattles, or grinding as these can indicate worn or broken components. Feel for vibration from the engine, through the steering wheel, or through the brake pedal as any strange or harsh vibration can indicate that repairs are needed.

Get a Vehicle History Report

A vehicle history report will list any major accidents or repairs the car has been through. It can also verify the number of previous owners and the number of miles on the odometer each time the car changed hands.

Avoid Hassles and Get a Used Car from Ontario Auto Center

If you want to simplify the process of buying a used vehicle near Chino, CA, then visit Ontario Auto Center. We have many used cars for sale near Corona, CA, and we’re committed to selling only the highest quality certified pre-owned vehicles at our Ontario dealerships. Save on your next pre-owned car from Ontario Auto Center and be confident in your next used car purchase!

Post-Road Trip Car Care Checklist

Summer auto service is one of the most overlooked parts of owning a car. Most people know they need to prepare their cars for major road trips. Prepare a car for the winter is also something that isn’t often overlooked. However, if you want to keep your car in optimal running shape you need to take care of it both before and after any long road trips.

Here are some useful tips for post-road trip vehicle maintenance near Chino, CA. 

Check Your Tire Pressure

This is something that you want to always keep an eye on. Sure, you checked your tire pressure before you left, but you will also want to check your tires when you get back home. Tire pressure fluctuates as tires heat up and cool down. For optimal performance and greater fuel efficiency, properly inflated tires is key.

Rotate Your Tires

The more you drive the more wear and tear you are going to put on your tires. To ensure even wear and tear on your tires you want to rotate your tires on a regular basis. Rotating them before you go on a long trip is important, but so is rotating them once you get back. How soon you should rotate your tires after returning from your trip depends on how many miles you drove. Check in with an auto service specialist at one of Ontario dealerships to see whether your tires may need to be rotated.

Check Oil Levels or Change Oil

Long road trips are hard on cars. Just as you should check the fluid levels before you go on a trip, so you should check on them when you return. Oil levels are critical for your vehicle’s performance. Check these levels before, during, and after your road trip to ensure they are always at the correct level for optimal performance. How long your trip is will determine whether you want to change the oil or not. If you have placed more than the recommended miles during your trip, perform an oil change upon your return.

Clean Your Car Inside and Out

The last thing you want is a dirty car. The dirt and bugs from road trips should be washed off as soon as possible to prevent any exterior damage. Grime can slowly etch its way through the clear coat, working its way into your car’s exterior and ruining its paint. Bird droppings, salt, and other road debris causes similar issues. Make sure you thoroughly clean your vehicle’s interior as well to prevent bad odors and to avoid ruining carpet or upholstery.

Check Your Braking System

You want to check the brake fluid levels, as well as the brakes and rotors themselves. When checking the fluid look at not just the level of fluid, but also the color. You want to change the fluid before it begins rusting your brake components. Fluid should be flushed every two to three years or when it turns a maple syrup color. Brake pads and rotors should be checked for wear and changed if necessary.

If you’re looking for a new car this summer, check out the new vehicles for sale near Corona, CA at our Ontario Auto Center dealerships. Need reliable car repair near Pomona, CA? How about affordable auto service in Ontario, CA? Head on into Ontario Auto Center for all your summer car repair needs today! We’ll help you maintain your vehicle before and after your summer trips.

Prepare Your Car for Spring Driving During April National Car Care Month

As welcome as warmer temperatures during spring time are, car owners need to ensure that their vehicles are in excellent health for ensured reliability in spring and summer. The extreme temperatures during winter can put a vehicle through its paces. Almost every part of your vehicle, from engine belts to windscreen wiper blades, are affected by icy temperatures. At Ontario Auto Center, we have qualified mechanics who are highly trained in car maintenance to prepare your car for spring. 

Prevent Breakdowns This Spring with Auto Service

No one likes to face expensive car breakdowns, especially if these could have been prevented. Every expert agrees on one thing – the only way to ensure the reliability of your car is to have it regularly maintained. Car maintenance can be quick and hassle-free if you have your vehicle serviced at a reputable auto service center with qualified professionals.

Here are some car care tips to pay attention to this National Car Care Month:

• Get rid of salt and grime build-up with a professional car wash. Salt can quickly lead to the development of rust and grime build-up can affect the quality of a car’s paint work.

• Maintain correct tire pressure. Temperatures, hot and cold require the air pressure in tires to be adjusted to suit prevalent weather conditions. Not having the correct tire pressure can be very dangerous and may result in a tire blowout.

• Ensure you have the alignment and suspension checked. Winter bears a heavy brunt on road surfaces as well as on your car’s mechanical components. Navigating damaged roads can wreck alignment and suspension systems.

• It is easy to forget components under the hood. Your car’s battery may be out of sight but it should certainly not be out of mind. During winter your car’s battery works extremely hard which is why it must be included in the critical spring checklist.

Taking great care of your car enhances your safety on the road and ensures its longevity. For all your auto service needs this spring or for vehicle repair, visit Ontario Auto Center today! All of our dealerships provide quality car service, and our specialists will take good care of your car. We are dedicated to providing first rate auto service in Ontario, CA. Contact Ontario Auto Center to schedule car service for your vehicle.

Make Old Man Winter Your Car’s Best Friend

Who doesn’t love summer?  Frolicking in the summer sun and splashing in oceans, lakes and swimming pools is always fun. But there is also something special about winter. Festive holidays like Christmas and the New Year bring excitement with friends and family. However, winter can also be a challenging time for your car.

Winter car maintenance is important to ensure that your winter will be safer and happier. How can you make sure that your cars will be winter-ready? By following these winter car maintenance tips:

Your Battery is Your Car’s Heart – Keep it in Good Shape

Your battery is vital to making sure your car starts every time you turn the key. With the drain that our phone charging and portable entertainment systems can put on our battery, they can become weaker much more quickly.

Make sure that your battery isn’t past its recommended replacement date, has plenty of water in the terminals and is free of corrosion this winter. If you’re not sure about your battery, get it tested for free at almost any auto parts store.

Make Sure Your Car Has the Right Winter Traction

Tires are always important on your car, but they become even more important in the winter. When there is rain on the roads, traction can become slippery.

Before winter hits, check your tires to ensure that they have the proper tread depth. If your tires show signs of wear, it might be time to replace them. Also check your tire pressure during winter to make sure that each one is at the PSI recommended by the manufacturer. Properly inflated tires make for a safer winter ride.

Winter Windows Need to be Clear

Windshield wipers also get more of a workout during the winter months. Check your wiper blades to make sure that they are not frayed or worn. Give your heater and defroster a check as well so that you will stay warm and that your windows will be properly defrosted this winter.

Stop by Ontario Auto Center before Old Man Winter hits if you are in the Chino, Corona or Norco, CA, areas to make sure that your winter car maintenance is up to par.

Remember to Make October your Fall Car Care Month!

At Ontario Auto Center in Chino, CA, we know the importance of checking your car well ahead of the winter season. You need to know your car is safe and secure and ready for the winter conditions as we approach the end of the year. You can either do this yourself or take your car to a reputable mechanic to do it for you. If you’re in Corona, CA, you can bring your car to one of our dealerships for the most comprehensive fall maintenance and repair service in the district! 

Let Us Give You Tip-Top Performance from Your Car in Winter

We have some great tips about what you can do to ensure your car is mechanically safe and sound in a fall car care maintenance check. First of all, you need to check the fluids in your car. That means the oil, water, transmission and brake fluids. Make sure all the levels are at maximum capacity to ensure the best performance from your car in the next few months.

You can also check out your tires and see if the air pressure is at the manufacturer’s required level as this will have significant impact on your stability and traction when there are difficult weather conditions. Have a close look at your exhaust system too and ensure that it’s fixed firmly in place and that isn’t leaking and causing emissions and strange noises.

Test your lights and brakes to make sure they’re working perfectly and are responsive to your needs. You want to be sure of complete visibility at night so you can stop safely in a hurry if you have to.

Ontario Auto Center Can Take the Strain Off Your Fall Car Maintenance in Norco, CA

It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to auto safety and fall is the perfect time to make the necessary checks and repairs to tide you over through the winter months. If you bring your car to our local garage, you can rest-assured that the most experienced mechanics will guarantee your car will see the cold season through.

Make this the month you prepare and fix your car for winter and contact us today to schedule your professional Fall Car Care Maintenance service with an Ontario Auto Center dealership!