Summer is the busiest season of the year for mechanics and this month’s extreme heat is likely to cause even more flat tires and breakdowns.

Tires can be one of your car’s weak points in triple-digit heat. Hot asphalt can create friction on underinflated tires causing them to overheat and possibly blow out.

“If you’re driving at highway speeds that rapid loss of air pressure can be very dangerous and make it difficult to control your vehicle,” said Daniel Armbruster with AAA Texas.

AAA says highway surface temperatures in the summer can reach 150 degrees. Scorching temperatures can also zap a car battery.

“If you’re driving it in excessive heat that can lead to evaporation of battery fluid and it can also cause a buildup of corrosion on the battery terminals which can shorten the life of the battery,” said Armbruster.

Summertime heat does not just dehydrate people. A car’s fluid levels, including motor oil, will evaporate and must be replaced more frequently. Regular maintenance can help driver’s avoid AAA’s top three roadside rescues.

“Dead batteries, flat tires and engine problems --- all of those are exacerbated by the heat we’re seeing right now,” said Armbruster.

MORE| Central Texas leaders address high temps and heat preparedness

The sun will also quickly turn your car into an oven. The Texas Heatstroke Task Force has a special temperature gauge that shows the difference between the inside and outside temperatures. 93 degrees outside can have the inside of a car baking at 138 degrees. That is a 45-degree difference. To lower the temperature park in the shade, crack your windows and use a sunshade.

AAA Car Care Checklist for Summer:

1. Check tires and tire pressure

Inspect all four tires and, if you have one, the spare tire as well. Look for cuts, gouges or sidewall bulges. Insert a quarter upside down into grooves to check tire tread. If you see the top of George Washington’s head, it is time for new tires.

Check tire pressure when the car has been idle and tires are cool. Inflate as needed to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure. You will find it listed in the owner’s manual and on the sticker of the driver side door jamb. Do not use the number on the tire sidewall.

2. Listen to and feel the brakes

If you hear a grinding sound or feel a vibration when applying the brakes, take your vehicle to an auto repair shop for a brake inspection. A service professional will check the brake system for fluid leaks, and the pads, rotors, shoes, and drums. If repair or replacement is needed, use the Repair Cost Estimator to help anticipate costs.

3. Secure and test the battery

Check the car battery to be sure cable connections are clean and tight, and the hold down hardware is secure. Have a service professional do a battery check to determine remaining capacity.

4. Top off engine oil and other fluids

Check that engine oil, coolant and brake, transmission and power steering fluids are at the correct levels for safe vehicle operation. When adding fluids, use products that meet the specifications listed in the owner’s manual.

Note that newer car models may have sealed automatic transmissions without a dipstick, and electric power steering that may not use fluid.

5. Replace wiper blades and replenish windshield cleaner

Rubber wiper blades naturally deteriorate over time. If wipers streak or fail to clear the windshield thoroughly, replace the blades. Fill the windshield washer reservoir with fluid formulated to remove insects and other debris, and test to make sure the nozzles spray adequately.

6. Check belts and hoses

Reinforced rubber drive belts power the engine water pump and accessories such as the alternator and air conditioning compressor so you should inspect and replace any that are cracked, glazed or frayed.

Note that modern multi-rib or drive belt materials do not show easily visible signs of wear. As a general rule, replace drive belts every 60,000 miles.

Inspect and replace worn, brittle, bulging or excessively soft radiator hoses. Check for leaks around hose clamps and at the radiator and water pump.

7. Keep the AC running cool

Take a test drive with the air conditioner running. If you notice a decrease in cooling capacity, take the car to an auto repair shop for diagnosis. Also have the cabin filter inspected and replaced as needed.

8. Replenish emergency kit supplies

AAA recommends keeping a well-stocked emergency kit in your vehicle. Include a flashlight and extra fresh batteries, first-aid supplies, drinking water, non-perishable snacks for people and pets, car battery booster cables, emergency flares or reflectors, a rain poncho, a basic tool kit, duct tape, gloves and shop rags or paper towels.