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Arizona summers are notorious for their relentless, triple-digit heat—and while we all feel it, your vehicle feels it even more. The high temperatures, intense sunlight and dry conditions create a perfect storm for automotive breakdowns. Here are the top failure points to watch for and how you can protect your ride from the Arizona summer sun. 1. Cooling System Overload Your engine’s cooling system is the first line of defense against overheating. In Arizona, the cooling system works overtime just to keep your engine at a safe temperature. Common issues include: - Low or old coolant - Cracked or leaking radiator hoses - Failing radiator fans or thermostats If the cooling system falters, your engine can quickly overheat, leading to expensive repairs or even total engine failure. Regularly check coolant levels, inspect hoses for cracks, and ensure your radiator and fans are in good working order. 2. Battery Failure High temperatures accelerate the chemical reactions inside your car battery, which can cause the fluid to evaporate and internal components to break down faster. Signs of trouble include: - Slow engine cranking - Corroded terminals - Swollen battery casing Batteries over three years old are especially prone to failure during Arizona summers. Consider having your battery tested or replaced before the hottest months hit. 3. Tire Blowouts and Rapid Wear Arizona’s pavement can reach 130°F or higher, causing the air inside your tires to expand. This increases the risk of: - Blowouts from overinflation - Tread separation - Accelerated wear, especially if tires are under- or over-inflated Check your tire pressure monthly, inspect for cracks or bald spots, and rotate your tires regularly to avoid catastrophic failures. 4. Engine Oil Breakdown Extreme heat causes engine oil to thin out and break down faster, reducing its ability to lubricate and protect your engine. This can lead to: - Increased engine wear - Sludge buildup - Overheating Frequent oil checks and timely oil changes are crucial in Arizona’s climate. 5. Belts and Hoses Deterioration Rubber components like belts and hoses degrade rapidly in high heat, becoming brittle, cracked, or split. A failed belt or hose can leave you stranded with an overheated engine or loss of power steering. Inspect these parts regularly and replace them at the first sign of wear. At Gemba Automotive, we understand how challenging Arizona’s summer heat can be on your vehicle. That’s why we offer comprehensive maintenance and repair services designed to keep your car cool, reliable, and safe all season long. With four convenient Valley locations—Tempe, Phoenix, Mesa Broadway, and Mesa Guadalupe—our expert technicians are ready to help you beat the heat. Schedule your Summer Survival Check today by calling: • Tempe : (480) 966-9600 • Phoenix : (602) 265-9600 • Mesa Broadway : (480) 969-9600 • Mesa Guadalupe : (480) 969-9601 You can also schedule online! Don’t let Arizona’s extreme heat catch you off guard—trust Gemba Automotive to keep you moving all summer long!

Arizona summers aren’t just tough on people—they’re brutal on vehicles too. With temperatures soaring well over 100°F, your car works overtime just to keep cool. A breakdown in the middle of summer in AZ is enough to ruin anyone’s day. Whether you're commuting through the Valley, heading out on a road trip, or just trying to survive the daily heat, here’s how you can prep your ride to handle the scorching Arizona summer. 1. Check Your Cooling System Your engine’s cooling system is your car’s frontline defense against the desert heat. Make sure: Coolant levels are topped off and properly mixed. Radiator hoses are free from cracks and leaks. The radiator fan and thermostat are functioning correctly. A quick inspection now can prevent an overheating disaster later. 2. Inspect Your Battery High temperatures speed up battery corrosion and can drain power faster than usual. If your battery is more than three years old, have it tested. Look for signs of: Swollen battery casing Corroded terminals Slow engine crank Better to replace a weak battery now than to get stranded later. 3. Evaluate Your A/C System No one wants to sweat it out behind the wheel. If your A/C isn’t blowing as cold as it used to, bring it in for a performance check. We’ll inspect the refrigerant level, compressor, and cabin air filter so you can stay cool in triple-digit temps. 4. Keep Tires Properly Inflated Hot pavement can quickly wear down underinflated tires or cause overinflated ones to blow out. Tire pressure rises with temperature, so check and adjust regularly. Gemba provides tire rotations and alignments to keep your vehicle riding smoothly all season long. 5. Replace Worn Wiper Blades Summer storms can hit hard and fast. Make sure your windshield wipers are up to the task. If they’re streaking or squeaking, it’s time for a replacement. Visibility is safety. Don’t wait until you need them to replace them. The time to check them is now, not as a storm is rolling in! 6. Stay on Top of Routine Maintenance Arizona’s heat amplifies wear and tear. Following a proactive maintenance schedule—like oil changes, brake inspections, and fluid top-offs—helps avoid breakdowns when you least expect them. At Gemba, we believe proactive > reactive, and summer is no time to gamble on your vehicle's reliability. 7. Keep an Emergency Kit in Your Car Even with the best prep, things can still go sideways. An emergency kit can be a lifesaver in the summer. Include:  Water bottles Jumper cables Flashlight First aid kit Phone charger Basic tools Don’t wait for the heat to take its toll—schedule your summer checkup today and drive with peace of mind this summer. 📍 Phoenix 1451 N 32nd Street, Phoenix AZ 85008 📞 (602) 275-2187 📍 Tempe 1375 S McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 📞 (480) 446-0484 📍 Broadway (Mesa) 2035 W Broadway Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202 📞 (480) 935-5277 📍 Guadalupe (Mesa) 424 W Guadalupe Rd, Mesa, AZ 85210 📞 (480) 966-1442 🕒 Hours: Monday–Saturday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM | Closed Sundays | Schedule Online: https://www.gembaautomotive.com/locations

A vehicle is one of the biggest investments most people make and getting the most out of that investment requires proper care. While many vehicles are built to last, how well you maintain yours determines whether it reaches 200,000 miles—or even more! By following a proactive maintenance routine and adopting smart driving habits, you can extend the life of your car and avoid costly repairs. Here’s how: 1. Follow a Proactive Maintenance Schedule Routine maintenance is the key to longevity. Waiting until something breaks before heading to a repair shop can shorten your vehicle’s lifespan and lead to expensive repairs. Instead, be proactive by following your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, which includes: Regular Oil Changes – Fresh oil keeps your engine lubricated, reducing wear and tear. Tire Rotations & Alignments – Even tire wear improves handling and prevents uneven stress on your suspension. Brake Inspections – Brake pads and rotors wear over time and replacing them before failure is safer and more cost-effective. Transmission & Coolant Fluid Changes – Dirty fluids can cause overheating and premature component failure. A well-maintained car is safer, more efficient and far more likely to reach (or exceed) the 200,000-mile mark. 2. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Driving Your driving habits significantly impact your vehicle’s longevity. Hard acceleration, abrupt braking and excessive speeding put unnecessary strain on your engine, brakes and suspension. Instead: Accelerate gradually to reduce engine stress. Brake gently to extend the life of your brake pads. Avoid excessive idling, as it leads to carbon buildup in the engine. Drive at moderate speeds to improve fuel efficiency and reduce wear on mechanical components. 3. Use Quality Parts and Fluids When it comes to replacement parts, you get what you pay for. Investing in high-quality parts—such as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or reputable aftermarket brands—ensures that your car continues to operate efficiently. The same goes for fluids: always use manufacturer-recommended engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid to prevent premature wear. At Gemba Automotive, we honor the integrity of auto manufacturers, which is why we have access to all the same OEM parts that the dealership service departments do, so you can rest assured you are receiving top-quality parts at a fraction of the cost of the dealership! 4. Keep Your Car Clean and Rust-Free While mechanical maintenance is critical, exterior and interior care also play a role in your car’s longevity: Wash and Wax Regularly – Dirt, road salt, and grime can lead to corrosion, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions. Clean the Interior – Dirt and debris can cause premature wear on seats, carpets, and buttons. Inspect for Rust – Catching and treating rust early can prevent it from spreading and weakening your car’s structural integrity. 5. Listen to Your Car and Address Issues Early Many major repairs start as minor issues. A strange noise, a slight vibration, or an illuminated dashboard warning light should never be ignored. Addressing small problems early can prevent more serious (and costly) failures down the road. If you hear or feel something unusual, don’t wait—schedule an inspection at a trusted repair shop. 6. Store Your Vehicle Properly If you don’t drive your car every day, or if you have a seasonal vehicle, proper storage is essential. Keep your car in a garage or covered parking to protect it from extreme weather. Use a fuel stabilizer if it will sit for an extended period. Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to prevent drainage. 7. Work with a Trusted Mechanic A reliable, knowledgeable mechanic can make all the difference in your vehicle’s lifespan. At Gemba Automotive , we specialize in proactive maintenance to help your car perform at its best for years to come. Our expert team provides alignments, tire rotations, brake inspections, fluid changes, and more—ensuring that your vehicle remains in peak condition. Final Thoughts Reaching 200,000+ miles with your car is achievable with the right care and habits. By staying ahead of maintenance, driving responsibly, using quality parts, and working with a trusted repair shop, you can maximize your vehicle’s lifespan while avoiding costly breakdowns. For professional auto care in Phoenix, Tempe, and Mesa, trust Gemba Automotive —where we focus on Excellence at the Source . Schedule an appointment today! Three Convenient Locations: Gemba Automotive - Tempe (480) 446-0484 1375 S McClintock Dr, Tempe, AZ 85281 See Location Details Schedule Service Gemba Automotive - Phoenix (602) 275-2187 1451 N 32nd Street, Phoenix AZ 85008 See Location Details Schedule Service  Gemba Automotive - Mesa   (480) 935-5277  2035 W Broadway Rd, Mesa, AZ 85202 See Location Details Schedule Service Check out our current specials!

Transforming Vehicle Care at Its Source

When it comes to vehicle ownership, maintenance is often viewed as a hassle rather than a necessity. Many drivers fall into the trap of waiting until something goes wrong before visiting the mechanic. However, proactive vehicle maintenance can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. Here’s why staying ahead of potential problems is one of the smartest moves you can make. 1. Cost Savings Unexpected breakdowns can be expensive. A sudden engine failure, brake malfunction, or transmission issue can lead to hefty repair bills. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections, helps catch minor problems before they become costly repairs. 2. Improved Safety A well-maintained vehicle is a safer vehicle. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine stalls can put you and others at risk on the road. Routine maintenance ensures critical systems like brakes, tires, and steering components function properly, reducing the likelihood of accidents. 3. Better Fuel Efficiency Simple maintenance tasks, such as replacing air filters, ensuring proper tire inflation, and performing regular tune-ups, can significantly improve fuel efficiency. This means fewer trips to the gas station and more money saved over time. 4. Longer Vehicle Lifespan Vehicles are major investments and you want yours to last as long as possible. Regular maintenance helps reduce wear and tear, allowing your car to perform at its best for years to come. 5. Higher Resale Value If you plan to sell or trade in your vehicle someday, maintenance records can be a valuable asset. A car with a documented history of regular service is more attractive to potential buyers and dealerships, boosting its resale value. 6. Reduced Stress and Inconvenience Few things are more inconvenient than being stranded on the side of the road due to a preventable breakdown. Scheduled maintenance reduces the chances of unexpected issues, giving you peace of mind whenever you hit the road. Final Thoughts Proactive vehicle maintenance is an investment in your car’s longevity, performance, and safety. Don’t wait for that check engine light to come on or for your brakes to squeal—stay ahead of the curve with regular service. Your wallet, your safety, and your vehicle will thank you.

Gemba Automotive's new Phoenix, AZ, location offers trusted auto repair services backed by a 2-year/24,000-mile warranty. Visit us today or schedule online!

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