When the weather is uncomfortably warm for you, imagine the hot workout your car's engine is getting. Although normal engine temperatures run into the boiling range, even during cold weather, blistering road and air temperatures just make things worse.

Too much heat in and on an engine can melt seals, fry lubricating oils, burst tubing and hoses, and, worst case, cause a mini "China Syndrome" under your baby's hood.

Prevention is the best medicine. Help your engine keep its cool—and yours as well—with regular servicing and extra checkups when the heat is on.

Following are a few tips to help your car take the heat, along with a list of helpful online resources.

Clean It Up
Grease and grime build-up on engine surfaces acts the same way that insulation performs in your home—it prevents heat from escaping. Steam hoses are often available for do-it-yourself cleaning at car washes, or you can use a power washer at home. Just be careful to mask off any inlets to keep water out of the engine and accessories.

Plastic food wrap can be used to protect electrical wiring and terminals (a couple of wraps make a watertight seal and it won't leave sticky residue like tape). If you have your car detailed occasionally, have them do the engine, too, at the start of the hot season or before your next long-distance road trip.

Make sure to:

• Let It Breathe
• Keep the AC Flowing
• Monitor Fluid Levels

-—MM