Preparing Your Car for LA Summer Heat: A/C Checklist
Playa Vista mornings are mild, but a Valley run in July can push your cabin to 130°F. Here's what to check before summer hits.
Is your A/C actually cold?
Point a thermometer at the center vent with A/C on max and recirculate on. You should see 38–45°F. Anything warmer means your system is low on refrigerant, has a leak, or a failing compressor.
The cabin air filter matters more than you think
A clogged cabin filter cuts A/C airflow dramatically and forces the blower to work harder. LA's dust, pollen, and 405-adjacent brake dust clog these fast — replace annually.
Check the coolant and radiator
Your engine cooling system is separate from cabin A/C but equally critical. A weak radiator or old coolant can cause overheating in stopped freeway traffic. Test coolant strength and inspect hoses before June.
Battery + heat = short life
Heat kills car batteries faster than cold. If your battery is 3+ years old, get it load-tested. A cheap test now beats a no-start in a Trader Joe's parking lot in August.
Tires and tire pressure
Hot pavement + underinflated tires = blowouts. Check pressure once a month during summer, and inspect for cracking sidewalls if the car has been parked in the sun.
People also ask
Do I need to recharge my A/C every year?+
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