Is your car ready for cooler mornings? Don’t risk a breakdown! Select Synthetics in Thunder Bay, ON, has you covered with this summer guide on commuter car maintenance.

Why settle for average when AMSOIL delivers excellence? Find your perfect late-summer maintenance products online, then call Select Synthetics in Thunder Bay, ON, at (807) 853-0807 for expert assistance.

Why Late-Summer Tune-Ups Matter in Thunder Bay

Thunder Bay’s unique climate and rugged terrain leave no room to skimp on maintaining your vehicle year-round. But late summer is especially critical, as your car has endured months of heat, road trips, and stop-and-go city driving. A thoughtful tune-up ensures your systems are refreshed before fall’s colder mornings and shifting road conditions emerge.

Commuter car maintenance during August also sets the tone for a worry-free transition into the school year, early morning commutes, and busy traffic periods. Skipping this maintenance window can lead to wear-related failures, reduced fuel efficiency, and brake system issues—all of which can be avoided with a simple tune-up.

Inspect and Service Your Transmission Fluid

Transmission systems are often overlooked during commuter car maintenance, yet they are essential for smooth acceleration, efficient fuel usage, and long vehicle life. Late summer heat and stop-and-go driving can cause transmission fluid to degrade, resulting in sluggish shifts, overheating, or even transmission failure.

AMSOIL’s Signature Series Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid is ideal for commuters in Thunder Bay. It resists oxidation, prevents varnish buildup, and performs in both extreme heat and early fall chill. Benefits include:

• 100% synthetic base oils for superior temperature control
• Exceptional wear protection to extend transmission life
• Stable viscosity for consistent shift performance

Regularly inspecting your transmission fluid’s color and level is a quick way to identify issues. Healthy fluid should be reddish and transparent. If it’s dark, cloudy, or has a burnt smell, it’s time for a change.

Whether you're driving to downtown Thunder Bay or navigating the Trans-Canada Highway, smooth shifting is key to a safe and efficient commute. Don’t wait for signs of trouble and stick to proactive transmission maintenance now to prevent headaches later.

Ready to give your vehicle the VIP treatment before fall hits? Visit the official AMSOIL website to shop top-tier synthetic oils, then call Select Synthetics in Thunder Bay, ON, at (807) 853-0807 to order directly from Thunder Bay’s most trusted AMSOIL dealer.

Don’t Overlook the Brake Fluid

Brake systems are often under high stress during summer driving, especially in stop-and-go city traffic. If your brake pedal feels spongy or less responsive than usual, the issue may not be your brake pads; it could be your brake fluid.

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, leading to a reduced boiling point. This means your brakes may overheat and fade when needed most, which is a safety issue, especially as wet autumn weather approaches.

AMSOIL DOT 3 & DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid is formulated to outperform conventional fluids as it can provide high boiling points to resist fading in extreme conditions, excellent corrosion protection for calipers, pistons, and lines while delivering fast and consistent braking response.

Late summer is a smart time to flush and replace brake fluid, especially if it hasn’t been changed in the past two years. Responsive brakes are non-negotiable for Thunder Bay commuters who drive daily through hilly terrain or congested roads.

Late-Summer Tune-Up Checklist for Thunder Bay Drivers

A late-summer tune-up goes beyond fluids. Here’s a complete checklist tailored to commuter car maintenance for Thunder Bay’s unique environment:

1. Check Oil Level and Quality: Top off or change using AMSOIL synthetic motor oil.
2. Inspect Transmission Fluid: Replace if discolored or showing signs of breakdown.
3. Flush and Replace Brake Fluid: Improve braking performance before slippery fall roads arrive.
4. Check Air Filters: A clogged air filter can reduce fuel efficiency, so make sure you clean or replace it as needed.
5. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Heat can cause rubber to crack; look for signs of wear.
6. Top Off Coolant and Washer Fluids: Prevent overheating and maintain visibility in end-of-summer storms.
7. Examine Tires: Rotate tires for even wear and check tread depth for fall traction.
8. Test Battery Performance: Summer heat can reduce battery life, so take your time to check charge levels and clean terminals.
9. Check Wiper Blades: Replace worn blades to prepare for fall rain and fog.
10. Look for Warning Lights: Scan your dashboard and resolve any alerts before they become larger issues.

Taking care of these steps ensures your vehicle is ready for the seasonal shift, saving you time, money, and stress.

Don’t let worn fluids stall your daily drive, and try AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid. You can also explore AMSOIL’s full lineup of synthetic motor oil, brake fluid, and more online. Then, you can call Select Synthetics in Thunder Bay, ON, at (807) 853-0807 to place your order with a local expert.