Since I was somewhat worried crossing the deserts with a car that was overheating and might not start, I looked up the local Mazda dealer in Flagstaff and made an appointment. Unfortunately, when I got there, Tyrrell Mazda was no longer a Mazda dealer but a GM one. I decided to brave the deserts anyway, resolving to turn off the AC but not the engine whenever overheating appeared. Which has worked fine so far.

The delay was actually fortunate, because it allowed me to drive the part of Old Route 66 through Oatman late in the afternoon when the light is better. This road is absolutely gorgeous. Do not miss this road. Ignore that Rand-McNally does not even mark this road as scenic. Roadtrip USA is better: "One of the most demanding, desolate, and awesomely satisfying stretches of the old road...cutting across a stretch of desert that brings new meaning to the word 'harsh.'" I consider it probably the most beautiful road I have ever driven, though others might disagree.

I reached California and ended up for the night in Needles. Roadtrip USA writes: "one of the hottest places in the country, with summertime highs hovering between 100 and 120 F for months on end." It is definitely hot out there, even at 7 pm local time.

Pictures (click for larger size):