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CHARLOTTE – Car experts are reminding motorists that preventative maintenance is important not just during a harsh winter, but also a scorching summer.

AAA Carolinas says they've seen a spike in the number of heat-related repairs at their car care centers all over the state.

Road side service calls jumped dramatically this past July compared to the same time in 2009.

"There was a 71 percent increase in cars overheated that AAA picked up on the side of the road," said Brendan Byrnes, a spokesman for the group.

Byrnes says to remember that the average car usually runs at 250 degrees.

"And you put a hundred degree ambient air temperature on top of that, your car's gonna have some real problems," he added.

So now, Byrnes says, is the time to ensure your car's cooling system is healthy. He advises drivers to check their coolant levels and replace weak and old car batteries. Also, take note of the ground once you pull out of a spot. A puddle may indicate a leak in your radiator.

Additionally, the group suggests you take note of what's going on behind your car. They want you to look in your rear-view mirror. Smoke coming out of your tail pipe could also be a telltale sign that your car's air conditioner is not running at an optimal level.

Byrnes adds shielding your car now against hot weather can save you headaches later.

"Any of those things before you car overheats and you're stuck on the side of the road," he said.