Boulder’s Most Common Summer Auto Repairs—And How to Avoid Them
Summer in Boulder is road trip season—and it’s also one of the busiest times of year for local repair shops. According to industry data, auto repair claims increase by nearly 20% during summer months, with brake wear, overheating engines, and A/C failures among the most frequent issues. This spike isn’t just about the heat—it's also due to longer road trips, heavier family travel, and an uptick in vehicles on the road. Many drivers also defer non-urgent winter repairs, only to feel the impact once summer driving demands hit.
In 2024, Colorado's tourism industry maintained its record-setting pace from the previous year. The state welcomed 93.3 million visitors, matching 2023's all-time high, and saw travel spending reach $28.2 billion—a 3.9% increase over 2022. This growth supported approximately 187,710 jobs and generated $1.8 billion in state and local tax revenue. These sustained high levels of tourism underscore the importance of vehicle readiness for both residents and visitors.
Whether you’re heading out for a road trip adventure, camping near Brainard Lake, or navigating July traffic on US-36, your car is working overtime in the heat. At Pellman’s Automotive, we’ve seen firsthand how Boulder’s terrain and weather can push vehicles to their limits. Here's a breakdown of the most common summer auto repairs we handle—and what you can do to prevent them.
1. Overheating Engines
AAA reports that 1 in 5 summer roadside breakdowns are caused by overheating and cooling system failures, with overall breakdowns increasing by approximately 20% during the summer months. High temperatures put added pressure on engines and batteries, but in Boulder, that stress is compounded by elevation, steep mountain driving, and long-distance travel, making your cooling system one of the most critical components to maintain.
Warning signs:
- Engine temp warning light
- Steam from the hood
- Unusual coolant smell
Prevention:
- Top off or flush the coolant based on your owner’s manual (usually every 2–3 years)
- Inspect radiator hoses for cracks or bulges
- If your temperature gauge is spiking, first shut down the engine immediately, pull over to a safe location, and call for a tow—this can help you avoid costly, preventable damage from an overheating engine. Once safe, have a technician diagnose the cooling system to pinpoint the issue and recommend repairs. Never open a hot cooling system or engine.
At Pellman’s, we perform cooling system diagnostics that detect small leaks and cooling system issues before they become full-blown failures.
2. Air Conditioning Failures
After months of disuse, your A/C can fail under the stress of Boulder’s July heat. According to CarMD, A/C system repairs rank in the top five most expensive summer fixes, with costs ranging from $300–$1,000 depending on the issue.
Common causes:
- Refrigerant leaks
- Failed compressors or clutches
- Dirt or debris in cabin air filters
Prevention:
- Run the A/C weekly for 5 minutes—even in cooler months—to keep parts lubricated
- Replace cabin air filters annually
- Schedule an A/C performance test
As a leading automotive air conditioning shop in Boulder, we recommend A/C inspections before July temperatures peak to avoid sweltering drives later.
3. Brake System Repairs
Over 20% of summer service tickets at repair shops include some form of brake system repair, and it’s no surprise why—heat, steep descents, and heavier travel loads all accelerate brake wear. According to the Colorado Department of Transportation, accident rates increase in the summer, often due to poor braking performance. A 2022 study found that brake failures are 1.4 times more likely during summer months, and alarmingly, over 22% of fatal vehicle defects are directly linked to brake-related issues.
Warning signs:
- Grinding or squealing noises
- Soft or spongy pedal feel
- Increased stopping distance
Prevention:
- Have your brakes inspected every 10,000–15,000 miles
- Use engine braking in the mountains to reduce brake fade
- Service brake fluid every 2 years to maintain stopping power
As Boulder’s go-to shop for brake repair and inspections, we’ll keep your braking system in peak shape before your next summer drive.
4. Battery Failures
Battery failure is 40% more likely in summer than in winter, even though cold weather often gets the blame. The real culprit is heat, which evaporates internal fluids and accelerates corrosion, shortening battery life and increasing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
Average lifespan in Colorado: 3–5 years
Prevention:
- Have your battery tested in Spring & Fall
- Clean corrosion from terminals and ensure tight connections
- Park in shaded or covered areas when possible
We offer quick battery tests at Pellman’s to give you peace of mind.
5. Suspension & Alignment Problems
By summer, Boulder’s roads are showing the scars of winter and spring: potholes, uneven paving, and construction debris. These wreak havoc on suspension components.
Symptoms:
- Car pulling to one side
- Uneven tire wear
- Rough or bouncy ride
Prevention:
- Schedule a suspension and alignment check after spring thaw
- Rotate tires every 5,000–7,500 miles
- Avoid construction zones when possible
As an experienced automotive suspension shop, Pellman’s offers precision diagnostics and repairs to keep your ride smooth and safe.
Stay Ahead of Summer Repairs—With Local Experts You Can Trust
July in Boulder brings longer days, outdoor adventures, and road trip memories—but also higher repair risk if your vehicle isn't prepped for the heat and mileage. AAA and other studies show that tens of millions of summer roadside breakdowns could be prevented with simple routine maintenance and timely part replacements.
At Pellman’s Automotive, we combine decades of experience with advanced diagnostics and
honest service to keep your car reliable all summer long. Check out
our Seasonal Specials and
schedule your inspection today - hit the road with confidence! Let’s make this your smoothest, safest summer yet—one smart repair at a time.
