Hey everyone, I just moved to the area and was wondering if anyone has any tips or suggestions about how to take care of our cars in a desert climate. I just came from Wisconsin and the car originally is from Kansas, Hot and dry is new to both of us. I keep it garaged all the time so it stays out of the sun and I plan to get the windows tinted soon to protect the interior. Does anyone know of a windshield shade that fits our cars? Any guidance would be much appreciated.

 

The only thing you really need to worry about here in the desert is your cooling system. It's only stupid hot form about June to August though. Most the other months are really nice. Since its so dry out here rust or anything moisture related is not an issue.

 

I likely won't be driving it in the summer. The cooling system is stock except for the aftermarket AST. Seems to be holding up fine right now. What about tires and hoses drying up? My girlfriend said that happens around here too.

 

If the car is garaged, tires will not suffer in any exceptional manner. It is only if the car is left in direct sun day in and day out that dry rot will occur. Hoses are also not any more fragile here than anywhere else. Coolant hoses stand up reasonably well for a car that runs a bit on the warm side. Finally, if you have not had the rats nest hoses changed to silicone (not likely I would think), then get them swapped out. The old rubber hoses just cannot cut it here or anywhere else. Happy motoring.

 

Welcome rtrylvr...

The rotary community gets together periodically. PM me your email info and I'll make sure to include you when I know of upcoming events.

 

What brings you to Az?

 

Well I've been dating someone that lives here for a year and the last two winters in NW Wisconsin pretty much made the choice simple. I'd rather suck start a Glock than shovel snow ever again.