Get our free mobile app

The southern United States is known for its hot and humid climate, which can be tough on cars. If you want to keep your vehicle running smoothly and avoid costly repairs, there are some things you should never do to your car in the south. Here are five of them:

2005
PxHere
loading...
  1. Neglecting regular maintenance Regular maintenance is essential for any car, but it's especially important in the south where the heat and humidity can take a toll on your vehicle. Neglecting oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance tasks can lead to bigger problems down the road, including engine damage and reduced fuel efficiency.
MarianVejcik
MarianVejcik
loading...

2. Leaving your car parked in the sun Parking your car in direct sunlight can cause a number of problems, including damage to your interior and exterior, and reduced battery life. If possible, park in the shade or invest in a car cover to protect your vehicle from the sun's harmful rays.

1996
Phil Walter // Getty Images
loading...

Using the wrong type of oil Using the wrong type of oil can lead to engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, and other problems. In the south, it's important to use oil that can handle the high temperatures and humidity. Check your owner's manual or consult with a trusted mechanic to determine the best type of oil for your car.Using low-quality gasoline Using low-quality gasoline can also cause problems in the south. Gasoline with a low octane rating can lead to engine knocking and reduced fuel efficiency. It's important to use gasoline with a high enough octane rating to meet your car's needs.

ChevronTexaco To Buy Unocal For $16.4 Billion
Getty Images
loading...

Ignoring warning signs If you notice warning signs that something is wrong with your car, such as strange noises, vibrations, or dashboard warning lights, it's important to address them right away. Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger problems and more expensive repairs down the road.

In conclusion, the hot and humid climate in the southern United States can be tough on cars. To keep your vehicle running smoothly, it's important to take care of regular maintenance, park in the shade, use the right type of oil and gasoline, and address warning signs as soon as they arise.

LOOK: The most extreme temperatures in the history of every state

Stacker consulted 2021 data from the NOAA's State Climate Extremes Committee (SCEC) to illustrate the hottest and coldest temperatures ever recorded in each state. Each slide also reveals the all-time highest 24-hour precipitation record and all-time highest 24-hour snowfall.

Keep reading to find out individual state records in alphabetical order.

More From 105.1 The Block