Most drivers know they have to stay on top of car maintenance all throughout the year, preparing for the worst of the season ahead. What some don't know is that whatever season just ended may have wreaked some havoc on your ride. 

So while you should be getting your car checked regularly anyway, it becomes especially important when you're prepping for big temperature swings. That means it's the perfect time to take your vehicle to a local garage, such as the Total Car Care Center at NJ State Auto Auction, for a tune up. 

Summer can cause problems with car batteries
Now that summer has ended, it's time to get your car battery checked. Several months of high temperatures and humidity could have caused problems with this essential part. The Car Care Council noted that hot weather may lead to even more issues than cold, which is typically thought of to be the most harmful. 

"When most motorists think of dead batteries that cause starting failure, they think of severe winter weather, but summer heat is the real culprit," said Rich White, the executive director of the Car Care Council. "Many battery problems start long before the temperatures drop. Heat, more than cold, shortens battery life."

It all occurs because heat leads to the evaporation of battery fluid. That then damages the internal aspects of the battery, hampering its function. Another problem to watch out for is overcharging, where a component inside the battery malfunctions and causes a high charging rate that actually kills its viability. 

Make sure your battery is up to snuff
The easiest way to ensure your battery is operating at a high level is to have a professional look it over. However, you still need to pull your own weight and make an effort. First, schedule regular maintenance appointments so you know your car battery is being checked by someone who knows what they're doing. 

Secondly, you should do your best to always keep the battery clean. Dirt and other debris that gets into the gear can ruin even the highest-quality product, draining its power and posing a safety risk. You also need to do some light maintenance of your own in any weather, including adding distilled water when necessary and monitoring the charge to ensure you are ready for anything.