When the Texas sun starts flexing its muscle, your car’s air conditioning system becomes more than a luxury—it’s a lifeline. At Spur Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Gatesville, TX, we know how brutal summer can be on vehicles. That’s why we’ve put together this essential guide to help you keep your ride cool, comfortable, and road-trip ready.

Spring Into Action: Schedule Your AC Service Early
Timing matters. The best time to inspect and service your car’s AC system is in spring—before the heat hits triple digits. Here’s what to check:
- Refrigerant levels: Low refrigerant can reduce cooling efficiency and strain the compressor.
- Leaks: Annual leak checks help prevent costly repairs.
- Recharge cycles: Most systems need a recharge every 2–3 years, depending on usage.
At Spur CDJR, our certified technicians use OEM parts and precision diagnostics to ensure your AC is summer-ready.
Keep It Fresh: Run the Fan to Dry Out Moisture
Texas humidity can cause condensation to build up in your AC’s evaporator core. That moisture becomes a breeding ground for mold and bacteria, which can lead to:
- Musty cabin odors
- Clogged drain lines
- Reduced airflow
Pro tip: After driving, run your AC fan at full blast for 10 minutes to dry out the system. This simple habit helps prevent microbial growth and keeps your cabin air clean.
Shade Is Your Friend: Park Smart
Parking in direct sunlight can turn your car into an oven. Interior temps can soar past 130°F, even if it’s only 95°F outside. To protect your vehicle:
- Park under trees, awnings, or use sunshades
- Apply UV-protective wax to preserve paint
- Use window tint (within legal limits) to reduce cabin heat
Bonus: Keeping your car cooler reduces the load on your AC system, improving fuel efficiency and extending component life.
Skip the Pre-Cool: Drive First, Chill Later
It’s tempting to start your car and let it cool before you hop in—but that’s not the most efficient method. Here’s why:
- Idle cooling is inefficient: The compressor works harder with less airflow over the condenser.
- Better airflow while driving: Once you’re moving, the AC cools faster and uses less fuel.
Instead, roll down the windows for 30 seconds as you start driving, then switch to max A/C with recirculation mode. You’ll cool down quicker and save gas.
Full Summer Service: More Than Just AC
Your AC isn’t the only system under stress in the Texas heat. Spur CDJR recommends a full summer checkup that includes:
| Component | Why It Matters in Summer |
|---|---|
| Engine coolant | Prevents overheating during long drives |
| Battery | Heat accelerates wear and corrosion |
| Tires | Hot pavement increases blowout risk |
| Belts & hoses | Rubber degrades faster in high temperatures |
| Cabin air filter | Keeps airflow clean and efficient |
Our Gatesville service team is here to help you tackle it all—from fluid top-offs to battery tests and filter replacements.
Visit Spur CDJR: Your Summer Car Care Experts
Whether you drive a RAM 1500, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango, or Chrysler Pacifica, Spur CDJR offers expert service tailored to your vehicle. We proudly serve Gatesville, Temple, Killeen, and the Fort Cavazos area with:
- Factory-trained technicians
- Genuine Mopar parts
- Transparent pricing
- Fast, friendly service
Ready to beat the heat? Schedule your summer service today at Spur CDJR in Gatesville . Let’s keep your car cool, safe, and road-trip ready all season long.

