Summer Vehicle Care Pro: Battery, Tires & Cooling

In the latest episode of Counter Culture, Jeff Hubbard, owner of Hubbard Auto Center in Onsted, Michigan, joined the show to discuss how summer vehicle maintenance impacts customers and counter professionals.

Hubbard emphasized the importance of proactive maintenance. “The battery is often forgotten,” he said. He pointed out that high temperatures can be just as damaging as freezing weather. Hubbard encouraged counter staff to test batteries at the counter. He also suggested offering to check batteries under the hood.

Tire and wheel components remain a year-round concern. Summer travel often prompts more customer attention, especially before road trips. Hubbard noted that while seasonal failures don’t spike, customer behavior shifts. People become more conscious of their tires before vacations.

Charging systems also demand attention. Hubbard explained that long, hot drives can stress alternators, making system testing critical. He added that counter staff should help customers navigate increasingly complex coolant and antifreeze options.

Refrigerant selection is another hot topic. Recent regulatory changes have introduced confusion at the counter. Hubbard stressed the need for counter pros to educate customers about choosing the correct refrigerant — whether it’s R-134a or 1234yf — and troubleshooting with leak dyes or stop leak products.

Preparing for long trips involves several checks, from tire tread to belts. Hubbard recommends customers carry a spare belt on summer journeys. His shop allows returns on unused belts to make the offer more appealing.

“Vehicle maintenance is year-round,” Hubbard concluded. “But summer makes it easier for people to hear issues, notice problems and take action — and that’s where the counter pro comes in.”